Beetle and ID Buzz (carscoops.com)
VW’s 75th-Anniversary Campaign Takes a Trip Down Memory Lane, Showcasing Evolution from Classic Beetle to ID. Buzz Electric Van
In a heartfelt homage to its 75 years in the United States, Volkswagen (VW) has launched a nostalgic photographic journey capturing the evolution of its vehicles from the classic 1949 Beetle to the futuristic 2024 ID. Buzz electric van. The campaign commemorates the brand’s cultural impact in the U.S., tracing its journey from humble beginnings to the present day.
The journey began in 1949 when Dutch businessman Ben Pon introduced two VW Beetles to New York, marking the initial steps of Volkswagen in the United States. Despite initial challenges in selling the cars, the brand officially established Volkswagen of America in 1955. The iconic “Think Small” ad campaign in 1959 played a pivotal role in reshaping the perception of the Beetle among American consumers.
The photographic gallery released by VW juxtaposes the classic Beetle with modern counterparts like the fully electric ID. Buzz and ID.4. The exterior shots highlight the stark differences in styling and size, while the interior photos showcase the significant technological advancements that have occurred over the decades.
The historic journey continued in the 1960s with the introduction of the Microbus (Type 2) and the Squareback (Type 3). The ’70s witnessed the expansion of VW’s range with models like the Dasher (Passat), Scirocco, Rabbit (Golf), and Jetta. In 1978, U.S. production commenced at the Westmoreland plant in Pennsylvania, producing over 1.1 million units of the Rabbit, including the iconic GTI.
The nostalgic voyage underscores VW’s commitment to the U.S., evident in the 2008 inauguration of the Chattanooga Assembly plant in Tennessee. This move solidified Volkswagen’s dedication to localizing production in the United States.
As part of the 75th-anniversary campaign, VW aims to convey its cultural impact in the U.S. through owner stories. The brand’s return to Super Bowl LVIII after a hiatus is anticipated, with the possibility of the VW ID.7 electric sedan taking the spotlight, scheduled for a U.S. launch in the second half of 2024. The campaign reflects a heartfelt “love letter” to America, celebrating the enduring legacy of Volkswagen in the American automotive landscape.