The History of Volkswagen

Business | May 11, 2010 | Share

Who would expect that the once ruler of Germany, and probably the most ruthless leader the world has ever seen would initiate and push for a car company for the folks of his country which would become one of the largest car manufacturers in the world. Adolf Hitler in the year 1933 wanted a car to be developed which could easily fit in 2 adults and 3 children and at the same time is affordable for the general public. Hence came into existence, Volkswagen or the peopleâ€™s car. Ferdinand Porsche was appointed as the head of operations who was overlooking the design and production of the factory. Volkswagen, unlike other car manufacturers who usually faced downturns due to low sales went through a different turmoil altogether. Even though the cars were into production and ready to be sold to the people of Germany, not many of them could be seen on the roads due to the unfortunate World War II which completely changed the course for Volkswagen. The factory, which was based in Wolfsburg, was taken over by the American troops which were later given away to the British. It was probably the most fortunate thing for Volkswagen as British army officer Major Ivan Hirst was put in control of these factories who then started supplying the cars to the British military. Volkswagen, since that time has never looked back putting up the right strategies and moves at the right time and making best use of their British and American contacts. Even though it clearly seemed that it would be impossible for Volkswagen to survive even for two years post World War, people like Hirst and his successors from the West German Government ensured its steady survival and at the same time make it an iconic element for the German economic recovery.

By now, the whole world knows about the revolutionary cars such as Beetle, Polo and Golf. It would be hard to believe that there was a time when the sale of their first car, Beetle had come down to a point when the company had to shut down. However, the production of Polo and especially Golf that were taken up from of two of Audiâ€™s prototypes cars seemed to be the turning point for the company. Volkswagen started spreading its roots to America and other parts of Europe where the idea of having a small yet efficient car, which would suit the youth, as well as a family car was slowly becoming a rage. One of the strength of Volkswagen that at one point helped them beat the sales of the Ford Model T has been the efficient use of technology. Starting from introducing twin support shockers to Turbo Charged Direct Injection for diesel engines has made them pioneers in automotive technology. Their drive to achieve clean and fuel efficient cars has resulted in the production of cars such as the clean-diesel Jetta TDI. They are continuously working towards creating new age flexible fuel, electric and hybrid vehicles that definitely shows their dedication towards spreading environment friendly cars and fuel.

Paul Merchant