Fast Facts about Volkswagen
Volkswagen, meaning “people’s car” in German, is a leading auto manufacturer known for its luxurious and reliable vehicles. The company has expanded into electric cars, following the trend of the 21st century.
Despite being well-known for its automobiles, Volkswagen also produces sausages and has a strong presence in over 100 countries. Some of the luxury car brands it owns include Bentley, Bugatti, Porsche, Lamborghini, and Audi.
Volkswagen has a complex history during the Nazi era, sourcing enslaved workers from concentration camps. The company’s connection to the Nazis is linked to Adolf Hitler and Ferdinand Porsche, who designed the iconic Volkswagen Beetle.
During the 2008 financial crisis, Volkswagen’s shares briefly rose to over €1,000, surprising financial experts. The company’s success during this time was attributed to short sellers trying to cover their options.
Notable VW Beetle Facts
The Volkswagen Beetle has been around for decades and, at one point in the 21st century, was considered the most popular car in the world. Its replacement, the VW Golf, has performed significantly better in the market.
In 1959, Volkswagen included a built-in espresso machine in Beetles designed for European consumption. This was a unique feature at the time.
Volkswagen and Environmental Efforts
In 2016, Volkswagen was awarded a Nobel Prize for its contributions to making cars with fewer emissions during tests. However, the credibility of the award was tarnished by the company’s involvement in the Fernandez affair, where Volkswagen used software to cheat on federal emissions tests.
Notable VW Owners and Fans
Gabriel Iglesias, better known as Fluffy, is a huge fan of Volkswagen buses. His collection, which includes a 1950 Volkswagen Beetle, is worth about $3 million.
Jim Carrey, the renowned Canadian-American comedian, lived in a VW bus with his family during his high school years. They would park at various destinations in Canada and later moved into a tent on his sister’s lawn.
VW Name Inspiration
Volkswagen names its cars after winds, such as the Polo named after Polar winds and the Passat after trade winds. The company believes that wind suggests smoothness, speed, and silence.
Volkswagen Sales Comparison
Despite owning numerous car brands, Volkswagen remains the second-best seller in the world after Toyota. While VW has many subsidiaries, it has struggled with being the top overall seller.
Volkswagen’s Biggest Market
China is Volkswagen’s largest market, with over three million cars sold there each year. The company operates several brands within China, including Audi, Skoda, and Porsche.
Volkswagen’s Entry into the US Market
In 1948, Volkswagen was offered to Ford for free but declined the offer. Under Nordhoff’s leadership, Volkswagen became one of the top ten auto brands on the market.
