Volkswagen is a German based vehicle manufacturer founded in 1937 by the German Labour Front party. The iconic Beetle started production in 1938. The advent of WWII changed the manufacturing to military vehicles. In 1945, the factory was captured by the US forces and handed over to the British. Major Ivan Hirst and a German assistant helped stabilise the social situation and re-establish production. In 1949, Hirst left the company. The Beetle (Type 1) continued production. In addition the Type 2 (van, pickup, camper) began assembly. In 1955 the Karmann Ghia commenced production. Over 21 million Type 1 Beetle’s were eventually built until 2003, with a fifth being manufactured in Brazil. Another best seller is the Golf model which is still built today.
