Volkswagen is a German auto manufacturer based in Wolfsburg, Germany. Translated from German, Volkswagen means “people’s car.” Volkswagen is also the main brand of the Volkswagen Group which includes names such as Audi, Lamborghini, and Bentley. As of 2007, it is the world’s third largest car manufacturer after General Motors and
Toyota.
Volkswagen’s origins began in Nazi Germany when Adolf Hitler asked Ferdinand
Porsche to modify some of his designs so that they would be more appropriate for the working class. Agreeing to make the “people’s car” for Hitler, the VW Käfer or Volkswagen Beetle was born.
Despite suffering heavy bombing and general collapse during the Second World War, the postwar years were ones of enormous growth for Volkswagen. The company became a potent symbol for the rebuilding of Germany as a whole. With a reputation for reliability and innovative advertising that appealed to younger, sophisticated consumers, sales soared. The VW Beetle is notably one of the best-selling and most iconic vehicles of the 20th century.
Preparing for the 21st century, Volkswagen is also recognized as the one of the leading manufacturers of diesel engines. Its diesel and biodiesel car lineup are in head-to-head competition with companies like
Toyota who primarily promote their hybrid technology.
