Once upon a time, there was the Volkswagen Beetle

"The Love Bug," "Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo"... Do those names ring a bell? These Disney films recount the adventures of Herbie the Beetle, the French nickname for the car built by Volkswagen. But behind this world-famous character lies a long and significant history that has left its mark on the automotive world. Let's take a closer look at the Volkswagen Beetle.

The Volkswagen Beetle: a look back at its design

Beetle for the French, beetle for the English, cockchafer for the Italians… The little Volkswagen has conquered the world. And yet, it hides a long, often overlooked history under its hood. Designed by an Austrian engineer, Ferdinand Porsche, the Beetle enjoyed meteoric success from its launch in 1938 and became the best-selling vehicle in the world. Originally, the VW Beetle was intended to be a family car and inexpensive. It was meant to be “the people’s car.” In fact, Adolf Hitler had summoned Ferdinand Porsche because he wanted a manufacturer capable of designing a popular and affordable car, somewhat like Mussolini’s Fiat Topolino.

In 1937, Ferdinand Porsche founded the Gesellschaft zur Vorbereitung des Deutschen Volkswagens, meaning the company for the preparation of the German people's car. In 1938, he presented the KDF (Kraft Durch Freude), meaning "Strength Through Joy": the Beetle was born. This people's car (Volkswagen) became a powerful propaganda tool designed to solidify the regime's supremacy. Many Germans paid for this car, which was never delivered, all for the sake of propaganda. A true scandal!

During World War II, the factory was requisitioned to contribute to the armament effort and manufacture military vehicles. It wasn't until 1948 that production of the famous Beetle could resume at full capacity, thanks to a Briton, Ivan Hirst, who revived the factory's operations. Success came very quickly, and the "people's car" was produced in 21,569,464 units, surpassing the Ford Model T.

Unparalleled success despite minor changes

At the time, the automobile was one of Adolf Hitler's key priorities, as he sought to promote individual mobility for his people through fast and reliable cars. Barely launched in Germany, the Beetle became a sensation in the United States. Thanks to the prosperous post-war economic boom, this small car managed to establish itself as the leading foreign car on the American market. What was initially intended to be an inexpensive and practical utility vehicle transformed into a true automotive legend, allowing it to break all sales records.

Throughout its career, the Beetle underwent very few aesthetic changes. Despite successive redesigns, it retained its rounded lines, thus preserving its iconic look. Indeed, the goal was always to maintain the famous curves that made this legend so successful. In 65 years, it therefore evolved very little:

• March 1949: creation of the export version intended for the American market;

• Between April 1949 and 1953: design of a convertible model;

• May 1950: Hydraulic brakes were fitted to the export version;

• March 1953: removal of the two-part rear window;

• 1957: enlargement of the windshield and rear window;

• 1964: glazed surface enlarged;

• 1967: installation of new vertical headlights;

• 1970-1972: the Volkswagen Beetle 1302 is available;

• 1972-1975: the Volkswagen Beetle 1303 is available;

• 1973-1978: introduction of the Volkswagen Beetle 1200;

• Between 1993 and 1996: resumption of production of the Volkswagen Beetle Fusca Itamar after a 7-year absence.

In 1998, Volkswagen decided to present a modern version with the New Beetle.

A classic car worth showcasing

Are you a car enthusiast and a discerning collector? Do you own a classic Volkswagen Beetle? You can give your prized vehicle the ultimate in storage space. Innova-Box transforms and customizes your garage, creating a showcase for your vintage car. No matter the size of your garage, we can transform it. Similarly, whether you own one, two, or several classic vehicles, we can create a bespoke space tailored to your needs. With our range of accessories , we create a unique environment. Light-up signs, stripes, and circuits will highlight your vehicle, while our furniture and accessories will enhance your garage. Explore our portfolio .

When we think of the Volkswagen Beetle, the image of Disney's Beetle #53 quickly comes to mind. But it's worth remembering that it was, first and foremost, the very first car produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen. Do you own a classic Volkswagen Beetle? Give it the most beautiful display case thanks to the expertise of Innova-Box.