Is Volkswagen trying to “Bulli” disgruntled fans of the brand into a rapprochement? Here, on the eve of press previews, it rather looks like it.
Few concept vehicles from the last decade were more warmly received than the 2001 Volkswagen Microbus concept, a vehicle that, for various reasons, VW decided not to place into production. This upset a vocal demographic in VW’s fan base, all but rabid for the retro-themed bus. But now, VW wants to kiss and make up.
On Tuesday, the brand will introduce the Bulli, what it calls a refinement of the 2001 Microbus concept, which derives its name from what the Germans called the original 1950 Microbus. (Semimodern models are still being produced in Brazil and some other international markets.)
That midcentury vision has morphed dramatically in the ensuing 61 years. In fact, the Bulli’s profile sooner evokes a Scion xB or Kia Soul than it does its namesake. Gone are signature features like panoramic windows, seating for up to nine, sliding doors and a woefully gutless gas engine. Instead, the Bulli has four conventionally opening doors, six seats, an iPad-based infotainment system and an electric motor.
Few concept vehicles from the last decade were more warmly received than the 2001 Volkswagen Microbus concept, a vehicle that, for various reasons, VW decided not to place into production. This upset a vocal demographic in VW’s fan base, all but rabid for the retro-themed bus. But now, VW wants to kiss and make up.
On Tuesday, the brand will introduce the Bulli, what it calls a refinement of the 2001 Microbus concept, which derives its name from what the Germans called the original 1950 Microbus. (Semimodern models are still being produced in Brazil and some other international markets.)
That midcentury vision has morphed dramatically in the ensuing 61 years. In fact, the Bulli’s profile sooner evokes a Scion xB or Kia Soul than it does its namesake. Gone are signature features like panoramic windows, seating for up to nine, sliding doors and a woefully gutless gas engine. Instead, the Bulli has four conventionally opening doors, six seats, an iPad-based infotainment system and an electric motor.
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