Volkswagen is celebrating a very special anniversary.
65 years ago, the iconic VW Beetle arrived for the first time in the United States.
In January 1949 Volkswagen Type 1, or Beetle, was shipped to New York City by the Dutch businessman Ben Pon, Sr.
The same year, the car attracted buyers, marking the first time that Volkswagen vehicles were sold in the U.S. The Beetle became later a cultural milestone for the entire generation. For 65 years, the brand managed not only to sell Beetle’s around the country but also to offer eleven different models with great success. As a matter of fact, in 2013 Volkswagen sold 407,704 vehicles in the U.S. alone.
Back in the days, Americans were drawn to the affordability and practicality of the car. They also were so charmed by its unique design, size, and fuel efficiency. 1977 marked the last Type 1, which was rolled off the production line, and the next new Beetle was introduced more than a decade later – in 1998. The vehicle paid styling homage to its predecessor. However, it featured water cooled engine and was mounted at the front.
A redesigned third-generation Beetle entered the North American market in 2011 and offered powerful and fuel-efficient engines, better handling, as well as more technology and safety features.
65 years ago, the iconic VW Beetle arrived for the first time in the United States.
In January 1949 Volkswagen Type 1, or Beetle, was shipped to New York City by the Dutch businessman Ben Pon, Sr.
The same year, the car attracted buyers, marking the first time that Volkswagen vehicles were sold in the U.S. The Beetle became later a cultural milestone for the entire generation. For 65 years, the brand managed not only to sell Beetle’s around the country but also to offer eleven different models with great success. As a matter of fact, in 2013 Volkswagen sold 407,704 vehicles in the U.S. alone.
Back in the days, Americans were drawn to the affordability and practicality of the car. They also were so charmed by its unique design, size, and fuel efficiency. 1977 marked the last Type 1, which was rolled off the production line, and the next new Beetle was introduced more than a decade later – in 1998. The vehicle paid styling homage to its predecessor. However, it featured water cooled engine and was mounted at the front.
A redesigned third-generation Beetle entered the North American market in 2011 and offered powerful and fuel-efficient engines, better handling, as well as more technology and safety features.
