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{{Short description|Volkswagen panel van}}
{{Redirect|VW Van|the song by Jake Owen|American Love}}
{{hatnote|"Splitscreen" (all one word) redirects here. For other uses, see [[Split screen (disambiguation)|split screen]].}}
{{split|Talk:Volkswagen_Type_2#Divide-unbundle_the_first_and_second_generations_page|date=April 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2020}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Volkswagen Type 2
| image = 0385 Porsche Diesel Bus blau.jpg
| manufacturer = [[Volkswagen]]
| aka = {{unbulleted list
  | Volkswagen Bus
  | Volkswagen Kombi
  | [[Volkswagen Transporter]]
  }}
| production = November 1949<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> – present <!-- T6 generation still made (as of November 2018) -->
| assembly =
| predecessor =
| successor = [[Volkswagen ID. Buzz]] (Type 2 RWD)
| class = [[Light commercial vehicle]] ([[M-segment|M]])
| body_style = {{unbulleted list
  | 4/5-door [[panel van]]
  | 4/5-door [[minibus]]
  | 2-door [[pickup truck|pickup]] (regular cab)
  | 3-door [[pickup truck|pickup]] (crew cab)
  }}
| platform = [[Volkswagen Group T platform]]
| layout = {{unbulleted list
  | Longitudinal Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive (T1-T3)
  | Longitudinal Rear-engine, four-wheel-drive (T3)
  | Transverse Front-engine, front-wheel-drive (T4-Present)
  | Transverse Front-engine, four-wheel-drive (T4-Present)
  }}
| sp = uk
}}

<!-- Note: This is the lead paragraph of an article that covers ALL six (sofar) generations of VW Transporters – T1 is only its first generation, and only the first two or three generations were called "Type 2" by Volkswagen, in any significant documents or frequency. -->

The '''Volkswagen Transporter''', initially the '''Type 2''',<ref>Volkswagen definitively dropped the 'Type 2' designation for the Transporters after the third of six generations.</ref> is a range of [[light commercial vehicle]]s, built as [[van]]s, pickups, and cab-and-chassis variants, introduced in 1950 by the German [[automotive industry|automaker]] [[Volkswagen]] as their second mass-production [[car model|light motor vehicle]] series, and inspired by an idea and request from then-[[Netherlands]]-VW-importer [[Ben Pon Sr.|Ben Pon]]. 

Known officially (depending on body type) as the '''Transporter''', '''Kombi''' or '''Microbus'''{{cn|date=October 2024}}{{dash}}or informally as the '''Volkswagen Station Wagon'''<ref name=Autoweek>{{cite web |url=https://www.autoweek.com/car-life/classic-cars/a2133336/1966-early-volkswagen-bus-makes-great-restaurant/ |title=1966: Early Volkswagen Bus makes a great restaurant |author=Murilee Martin |date=April 15, 2019 |work=Autoweek |accessdate=November 27, 2023}}</ref> (US), '''Bus'''<ref name=Autoweek/> (also US), '''Camper''' (UK) or '''Bulli''' (Germany), it was initially given the factory designation 'Type&nbsp;2', as it followed{{dash}}and was for decades based on{{dash}}the [[Volkswagen Beetle|original 'Volkswagen']] ("People's Car"), which became the VW factory's 'Type&nbsp;1' after the [[World War Two|post-war]] reboot, and mostly known, in many languages, as the "Beetle".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.brinse.com/history-of-the-volkswagen-bus.html |title=History of the Volkswagen bus |publisher=Brinse.com |access-date=19 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810091051/http://www.brinse.com/history-of-the-volkswagen-bus.html |archive-date=10 August 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref>
 
The Volkswagen Transporter has been built in many variants. It may be best known for its [[panel van]]s, but it was also built as a small bus or [[minivan]], with choices of up to 23 windows and either hinged or sliding side doors. From the first generation, both regular and crew-cab, as well as long- and short-bed [[Pickup truck|pickup]]s, were made, and multiple firms sprang up to manufacture varying designs of camper vans, based on VW's Transporter models, to this day.

For the first 40 years, all VW Type&nbsp;2 variants were [[forward control]], with a VW-Beetle-derived [[flat-four engine]] in the rear, and all riding on the same (initial thirty years{{dash}}T1 and T2), or similar (T3),<ref>The Transporter T3 of the 1980s, introduced in 1979, had a marginally longer wheelbase, but continued the same pattern for another decade.</ref> {{cvt|2.40|m|in|0}} wheelbase as the Type&nbsp;1 Beetle. As a result, all forward-control Type&nbsp;2 pickups were ''either'' of standard-cab, long-bed  ''or'' crew-cab, short-bed configuration, and because of the relatively high bed floor (above the rear, flat engine), most pickups came with drop sides in addition to the tailgate. In 1979, the [[Volkswagen Type 2 (T3)|third-generation Type&nbsp;2]] introduced an all-new, more square and boxy body, and in the 1980s also introduced a raised [[four-wheel-drive]] bus variant.

From the introduction of the [[Volkswagen Transporter (T4)|fourth-generation Transporter]] in 1990, the vehicle layout changed to a more common front-engined one{{dash}}no longer forward-control{{dash}}and also changed from rear- to front-wheel drive, with four-wheel–drive remaining optional. From then on, the platform no longer shared technological legacy with the Beetle, and Volkswagen just called them 'Transporter', and no longer 'Type&nbsp;2'. The new models, though growing a bit in length, got a significantly longer wheelbase that pushed the wheels closer to the truck's corners, noticeably reducing its front and rear overhangs, and extended-wheelbase models were also introduced.

==Legacy of the Type 2==
As one of the forerunners of the modern cargo and passenger vans, the Type&nbsp;2 gave rise to forward control competitors in the United States in the 1960s, including the [[Ford E-Series#First generation (1961–1967)|Ford Econoline]], the [[Dodge A100]], and the [[Chevrolet Greenbrier|Chevrolet Corvair 95 Corvan]] – the last adapting the [[Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout|rear-engine configuration]] of the Corvair car in the same manner in which the VW Type&nbsp;2 adapted the Type&nbsp;1's layout.

European competition included the 1947–1981 [[Citroën H Van]], the 1959–1980 [[Renault Estafette]] (both [[FF layout]]), the 1952–1969 semi-forward-control [[Bedford CA]] and the 1953–1965 [[FR layout]] [[Ford Transit]]. Japanese manufacturers also introduced similar vehicles, such as the [[Nissan Caravan]], [[Toyota LiteAce]] and [[Subaru Sambar]]. Like the Beetle, the van has received numerous nicknames worldwide, including ''microbus'', ''minibus'',<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.projo.com/lifebeat/content/Mark28_07-28-09_T9F6IMQ_v12.27857d7.html |last=Patinkin |first=Mark |title=1969 was the most tumultuous and normal year |newspaper=[[Providence Journal]] |date=28 July 2009 |access-date=11 August 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604041414/http://www.projo.com/lifebeat/content/Mark28_07-28-09_T9F6IMQ_v12.27857d7.html |archive-date=4 June 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> and, because of its popularity in the [[counterculture of the 1960s|counterculture movement of the 1960s]] and [[1970s]], ''hippie van'' and ''hippie bus''.

Brazil contained the last factory in the world that produced the T2 series of Type 2, which ceased production on 31 December 2013, due to the introduction of more stringent safety regulations in the country.<ref name=TerminationAutocar>{{cite web |url=http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/sao-paulo-motor-show-2012/end-road-volkswagen-camper |last=Tisshaw |first=Mark |title=End of the road for Volkswagen camper |website=[[Autocar (magazine)|Autocar]] |date=24 October 2012 |access-date=24 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121027000135/http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/sao-paulo-motor-show-2012/end-road-volkswagen-camper |archive-date=27 October 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> This (after the 2002 termination of its T3 successor in South Africa) marked the end of the era of rear-engine Volkswagens, which originated in 1935 with their Type 1 prototypes.

== History ==
[[File:Volkswagen Plattenwagen.jpg|thumb|Plattenwagen]]

The concept for the Type 2 is credited to Dutch Volkswagen importer [[Ben Pon (senior)|Ben Pon]]. It has similarities in concept to the 1920s [[Rumpler Tropfenwagen]] and 1930s [[Dymaxion car]] by [[Buckminster Fuller]], neither of which reached production. Pon visited [[Wolfsburg]] in 1946, intending to purchase Type 1s for import to the Netherlands, where he saw a ''Plattenwagen'', an improvised parts-mover based on the Type 1 chassis, and realized something better was possible using the [[platform chassis|stock Type 1 pan]].<ref>Walters, Jeff. "Type 2 Roots", in ''Hot VWs'', 7/84, p.45.</ref> He first sketched the van in a doodle dated 23 April 1947,<ref name="Walters, p.45">Walters, p.45.</ref> proposing a payload of {{convert|690|kg|lb|abbr=on}} and placing the driver at the very front.<ref name="Walters, p.46">Walters, p.46.</ref> The sketch is now in the [[Rijksmuseum]].<ref>Rijksmuseum Studio: ''[https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/search/objects?q=ben+pon&p=1&ps=12&st=Objects&ii=0#/NG-C-2012-2-1,0 Note book with first sketch of the Volkswagen Transporter, Ben Pon, 1947]'', retrieved 30 August 2021</ref> Production would have to wait, however, as the factory was at capacity producing the Type 1.<ref name="Walters, p.46" />

When capacity freed up, a prototype known internally as the Type 29 was produced in a short three months.<ref name="Walters, p.45" /> The stock Type 1 pan proved to be too weak so the prototype used a ladder chassis with [[unit body]] construction.<ref name="Walters, p.46"/> Coincidentally the wheelbase was the same as the Type 1's.<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> Engineers reused the reduction gear from the [[Volkswagen Kübelwagen|Type 82]], enabling the 1.5 ton van to use a {{convert|25|hp|kW|abbr=on}} flat four engine.<ref name="Walters, p.46" />

Although the [[aerodynamics]] of the first prototypes were poor (with an initial {{Cd|long=yes|link=car|0.75}}),<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> engineers used the [[wind tunnel]] at the [[Technical University of Braunschweig]] to optimize the design. Simple changes such as splitting the windshield and roofline into a "vee" helped the production Type 2 achieve {{Cd|0.44}}, exceeding the Type 1's {{Cd|0.48}}.<ref name="Walters, p.47">Walters, p.47.</ref> Volkswagen's new chief executive officer [[Heinz Nordhoff]] (appointed 1 January 1948)<ref>Walter, p.46.</ref> approved the van for production on 19 May 1949<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> and the first production model, now designated Type 2,<ref name="Walters, p.47" /> rolled off the [[assembly line]] to debut 12 November.<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> Only two models were offered: the Kombi (with two side windows and middle and rear seats that were easily removable by one person),<ref name="Walters, p.47" /> and the Commercial.<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> The Microbus was added in May 1950,<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> joined by the Deluxe Microbus in June 1951.<ref name="Walters, p.46" /> In all 9,541 Type 2s were produced in their first year of production.<ref name="Walters, p.47" />

An ambulance model was added in December 1951 which repositioned the fuel tank in front of the transaxle, put the spare tire behind the front seat,<ref name="Walters, p.47" /> and added a "[[Trunk (automobile)#Door|tailgate]]"-style rear door.<ref name="Walters, p.47" /> These features became standard on the Type 2 from 1955 to 1967.<ref name="Walters, p.47" /> 11,805 Type 2s were built in the 1951 model year.<ref name="Walters, p.94">Walters, p.94.</ref>
These were joined by a single-cab pickup in August 1952, and it changed the least of the Type 2s until all were heavily modified in 1968.<ref name="Walters, p.94" />

[[File:Volkswagen Type 2 at The Henry Ford - July 2017.jpg|thumb|1959 [[Volkswagen Westfalia Camper]] at [[The Henry Ford]]]]

Unlike other [[rear-engine design|rear engine]] Volkswagens, which evolved constantly over time but never saw the introduction of all-new models, the Transporter not only evolved, but was completely revised periodically with variations retrospectively referred to as versions "T1" to "T5" (a nomenclature only invented after the introduction of the front-drive T4 which replaced the T3). However, only generations T1 to T3 can be seen as directly related to the Beetle (see below for details){{Citation needed|date=May 2011}}.

The Type 2, along with the 1939 [[Citroën TUB]] and the 1947 [[Citroën H Van]], are among the first 'forward control' vans in which the driver was placed above the front roadwheels. They started a trend in Europe, where the 1952 GM [[Bedford CA]], 1958 [[RAF-977]], 1959 [[Renault Estafette]], 1960 BMC [[Morris J4]], and 1960 [[Commer FC]] also used the concept. In the United States, the [[Chevrolet Corvair|Corvair]]-based [[Chevrolet Corvan]] cargo van and [[Chevrolet Greenbrier|Greenbrier]] passenger van adopted the use of the rear-engine layout of the Corvair car in the same manner that the Type 2 had used the rear-engine layout of the Type 1, using the Corvair's horizontally opposed, 6 cylinder air-cooled engine for power. Except for the Greenbrier, various 1950s–70s [[Fiat]] minivans, and the [[Mazda Bongo#First generation (1966–1975)|Mazda Bongo]], the Type 2 remained unique in being rear-engined. This was a disadvantage for the early "barndoor" Panel Vans, which could not easily be loaded from the rear because the engine cover intruded on interior space, but generally advantageous in traction and interior noise. The Corvair pickup used a folding side panel that functioned as a ramp into the bed when opened, and was called the "Rampside". The VW "pickup" in both single and double cab versions had a bed/floor that was flat from front to back at the height of the engine compartment cover, which had the advantage of a flat load floor but at a greater height, while the Corvair "pickup" bed/floor stepped down in front of the engine compartment to a much lower load floor which worked well with the unique "Rampside" configuration for loading.

Decades after production of the Type 2 ended, Volkswagen announced in 2017 that they would be bringing an [[VW microbus electric|electric VW microbus]] out based on the new [[Volkswagen Group MEB platform|MEB platform]] in 2022.<ref name=rat20170819>
{{cite news |last=Perkins|first=Chris |url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/future-cars/a12036821/vw-electric-microbus-confirmed/ |title=Confirmed! Electric VW Microbus Coming |work=[[Road & Track]] |date=19 August 2017 |access-date=18 June 2019 }}</ref>

== Variants ==
[[File:VW T1-BD 20-5031.JPG|thumb|right|Rail-going [[draisine]]]]

The Type 2 was available as a:
* [[Panel van]], a delivery van without side windows or rear seats.
* Double-door Panel Van, a delivery van without side windows or rear seats and cargo doors on both sides.
* High Roof Panel Van ({{langx|de|Hochdach}}), a delivery van with raised roof.
* Kombi, from {{langx|de|Kombinationskraftwagen}} (combination motor vehicle), with side windows and removable rear seats, both a passenger and a cargo vehicle combined.
* Bus, also called a ''[[Volkswagen Caravelle (disambiguation)|Volkswagen Caravelle]]'', a van with more comfortable interior reminiscent of passenger cars since the third generation.
* Lotação ([[share taxi]]), a version exclusive to Brazil, with 6 front-hinged doors for the passenger area and 4 bench-seats, catering to the supplemental public transport segment.{{citation needed|date=July 2016}} Available from 1960 to 1989, in both the split-window and "clipper" (fitted with the bay-window front panel) bodystyles.
* Samba-Bus, a van with skylight windows and cloth sunroof, first generation only, also known as a ''Deluxe Microbus''. They were marketed for touring the [[Alps]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8704175.stm |title=Volkswagen camper van marks 60 years of production |publisher=BBC |date=4 June 2010}}</ref>
* Flatbed [[pickup truck]], or Single Cab, also available with wider load bed.
* [[Crew cab]] pick-up, a [[flatbed truck]] with extended cab and two rows of seats, also called a Doka, from {{langx|de|Doppelkabine}}.
* [[Volkswagen Westfalia Campers|Westfalia camping van]], "Westy", with [[Westfalia]] roof and interior. Included optional "pop up" top.
* Adventurewagen camping van, with high roof and camping units from [[Adventurewagen]].
* Semi-camping van that can also still be used as a passenger car and transporter, sacrificing some camping comforts. "Multivan" or "Weekender", available from the third generation on.

Apart from these factory variants, there were a multitude of third-party conversions available, some of which were offered through Volkswagen dealers. They included, but were not limited to, refrigerated vans, [[hearse]]s, [[ambulance]]s, police vans, [[fire apparatus|fire engines]] and ladder trucks, and camping van conversions by companies other than Westfalia. There were even 30 [[Klv 20]] rail-going [[draisine]]s built for [[Deutsche Bundesbahn]] in 1955.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eisenbahndienstfahrzeuge.de/klv/klv20/klv20.htm |title=Klv 20 Draisine, VW Bus |publisher=Eisenbahndienstfahrzeuge.de |access-date=19 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718233546/http://www.eisenbahndienstfahrzeuge.de/klv/klv20/klv20.htm |archive-date=18 July 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In South Africa, it is known as a well-loved variation of the [[ice cream van]] (first, second and third generations).

{{clear}}

== {{Anchor|T1}}First generation (T1; 1950) ==
{{Redirect|Splitscreen||Split screen (disambiguation)}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name                    = Volkswagen Type 2 (T1)
| image                   = 1966 Volkswagen T1 2.0 Front.jpg
| caption                 = 1966 Volkswagen Type 2
| aka                     =
| manufacturer            = [[Volkswagen]]
| production              = {{unbulleted list
  | 1950–1967 (Europe)
  | 1953–1975 (Brazil)
  }}
| assembly                = {{unbulleted list
  | West Germany: [[Wolfsburg]]
  | West Germany: [[Hanover]]
  | Brazil: [[São Bernardo do Campo]]
  | Australia: [[Melbourne]]<ref name=clubvw>[http://www.clubvw.org.au/austvw001 Australian Volkswagens] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120712031005/http://www.clubvw.org.au/austvw001 |date=12 July 2012 }} Retrieved from www.clubvw.org.au on 7 August 2012</ref>
  | South Africa: [[Uitenhage]]
  }}
| class                   = [[Light commercial vehicle]]/[[Full-size van]] ([[M-segment|M]])
| body_style              = {{unbulleted list
  | 4-/5-door [[panel van]]//[[panel truck]]
  | 4-/5-door [[minibus]]
  | 2-door [[pickup truck|pickup]] (regular cab)
  | 3-door [[pickup truck|pickup]] (crew cab)
  }}
| layout                  = [[RR layout]]
| platform                = [[Volkswagen Group T platform#T1|Volkswagen Group T1 platform]]
| engine                  = {{unbulleted list
  | 1.1&nbsp;[[litre|L]] [[flat-four engine|B4]] ([[petrol engine|petrol]])
  | 1.2&nbsp;L [[flat four engine|B4]] (petrol)
  | 1.5&nbsp;L [[flat four engine|B4]] (petrol)
  | 1.6&nbsp;L [[flat four engine|B4]] (petrol) ([[Brazil]], after 1967)
  }}
| transmission            =
| wheelbase               = {{convert|2400|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| length                  = {{convert|4280|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| width                   = {{convert|1720|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| height                  = {{convert|1940|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| weight                  =
| related                 =
| designer                =
| sp                      = uk
}}
[[File:1964 Volkswagen T1 Transporter Kombi bus (6106456722).jpg|thumb|VW T1, 13-window "Kombi" bus]]
[[File:1958 Volkswagen T1 Transporter Kombi bus.jpg|thumb|VW T1, 11-window "Kombi" bus]]
[[File:1962 Volkswagen Type 2 2-door utility (26928884264).jpg|thumb|VW T1, single-cab utility pickup]]

The first generation of the Volkswagen Type 2 with the split [[windshield]], informally called the Microbus, Splitscreen, or Splittie among modern fans, was produced from 8 March 1950 through the end of the 1967 model year. From 1950 to 1956, the T1 (not called that at the time) was built in [[Wolfsburg]]; from 1956, it was built at the completely new Transporter [[list of Volkswagen Group factories|factory]] in [[Hanover]]. Like the Beetle, the first Transporters used the 1100 [[Volkswagen air-cooled engine]], a {{convert|1131|cc|1|lk=on|abbr=on}}, [[Deutsches Institut für Normung|DIN]]-rated {{convert|18|kW|PS bhp|0|lk=on|abbr=on}}, [[air-cooled engine|air-cooled]] [[flat-four engine|flat-four-cylinder]] [[flat engine|'boxer' engine]] mounted in the rear. This was upgraded to the 1200 – a {{convert|1192|cc|1|abbr=on}} {{convert|22|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} in 1953. A higher compression ratio became standard in 1955; while an unusual early version of the {{convert|30|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} engine debuted exclusively on the Type 2 in 1959. Any 1959 models that retain that early engine today are rare. Since the engine was discontinued almost immediately, no spare parts were made available.

The early versions of the T1 until 1955 were often called the "Barndoor"<ref>{{cite web |title=VW Type 2 T1 Split Bus |work=The Golden Bug |url=http://www.thegoldenbug.com/en/air-cooled_vw_history/d37/t1_split_bus |access-date=5 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120605032455/http://www.thegoldenbug.com/en/air-cooled_vw_history/d37/t1_split_bus |archive-date=5 June 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=History of the VW T1 Split Bus (Bulli) |work=VW Heritage |url=https://www.vwheritage.com/split-history |access-date=5 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805203145/https://www.vwheritage.com/split-history |archive-date=5 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> (retrospectively called T1a since the 1990s), owing to the enormous rear engine cover, while the later versions with a slightly modified body (the roofline above the windshield is extended), smaller engine bay, and 15" roadwheels instead of the original 16" ones are nowadays called the T1b (again, only called this since the 1990s, based on VW's retrospective T1, 2, 3, 4 etc. naming system). From the 1964 model year, when the rear door was made wider (same as on the bay-window or T2), the vehicle could be referred to as the T1c. That year also saw the introduction of an optional sliding door for the passenger/cargo area instead of the outwardly hinged doors typical of cargo vans.

In 1962, a heavy-duty Transporter was introduced as a factory option. It featured a cargo capacity of {{convert|1000|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}} instead of the previous {{convert|750|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}, smaller but wider 14" roadwheels, and a 1.5&nbsp;L, {{convert|31|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} DIN engine. This was so successful that only a year later, the 750&nbsp;kg, 1.2&nbsp;L Transporter was discontinued. The 1963 model year introduced the 1500 engine – {{convert|1493|cc|1|abbr=on}} as standard equipment to the US market at {{convert|38|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} DIN with an {{convert|83|mm|in|2|abbr=on}} bore, {{convert|69|mm|2|abbr=on}} stroke, and 7.8:1 compression ratio. When the Beetle received the 1.5&nbsp;L engine for the 1967 model year, its power was increased to {{convert|40|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} DIN.

German production stopped after the 1967 model year; however, the T1 still was made in [[Brazil]] until 1975, when it was modified with a 1968–79 T2-style front end, and big 1972-vintage taillights into the so-called "T1.5" and produced until 1996. The Brazilian T1s were not identical to the last German models (the T1.5 was locally produced in Brazil using the 1950s and 1960s-era stamping dies to cut down on retooling, alongside the [[Volkswagen Beetle|Beetle]]/Fusca, where the pre-1965 body style was retained), though they sported some characteristic features of the T1a, such as the cargo doors and five-stud {{convert|205|mm|1|abbr=on}} [[Wheel sizing#Bolt circle|Pitch Circle Diameter]] rims. Wheel tracks varied between German and Brazilian production and with 14-inch, 15-inch and 16-inch wheel variants but commonly front track varied from 1290&nbsp;mm to 1310&nbsp;mm and rear track from 1370&nbsp;mm to 1390&nbsp;mm.

[[File:62bus.jpg|alt=1962 23 Window Deluxe Microbus|thumb|1962 VW 23 Window Deluxe Microbus]]

Among North American enthusiasts, it is common to refer to the different models by the number of their windows. The basic Kombi or Bus is the 11-window (a.k.a. three-window bus because of three side windows) with a split windshield, two front cabin door windows, six rear side windows, and one rear window. The DeLuxe model featured eight rear side windows and two rear corner windows, making it the 15-window (not available in Europe). Meanwhile, the sunroof DeLuxe with its additional eight small skylight windows is, accordingly, the 23-window. From the 1964 model year, with its wider rear door, the rear corner windows were discontinued, making the latter two the 13-window and 21-window respectively. The 23- and later 21-window variants each carry the nickname [[Samba (bus)|"Samba" or in Australia, officially "Alpine"]].

=== Samba ===
[[File:Samba(1).jpg|thumb|Red VW 23-window Samba bus]]
[[File:Samba 21 windows.jpg|thumb|VW T1, 21-window Transporter Samba model]]

The Volkswagen "Samba", officially the ''Kleinbus Sonderausführung'' (small bus, special version) and marketed as the Microbus Deluxe and Sunroof Deluxe in the United States, was the most luxurious version of the T1.<ref name=70yrs>{{cite web | url = https://www.secret-classics.com/en/70-years-of-volkswagen-t1-samba/ | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221218012101/https://www.secret-classics.com/en/70-years-of-volkswagen-t1-samba/ | archive-date = 2022-12-18 | title = 70 years of Volkswagen Samba | date = 2021-04-21 | work = Secret Classics | first = Matthias | last = Kierse }}</ref> Volkswagen started producing Sambas in 1951; in 1952 the name in the home market was changed to ''Sondermodell'' (special model). the precise origin of the Samba nickname is unclear: sources refer to "samba cars", special train cars for dancing used by the [[Deutsche Bundesbahn|Bundesbahn]] in the 1950s, while others suggest that it is an abbreviation for either ''Sonder-Ausführung mit besonderer Ausstattung'' (special version with special equipment) or for ''Sonnendach-Ausführung mit besonderem Armaturenbrett'' (sunroof version with special dashboard). The Samba name first appeared in official literature in Dutch price lists.<ref name=70yrs/>

In the US Volkswagen vans were informally identified by the window count. This particular model had 23 and later 21 windows including eight high windows in the roof. The 23 window variant also had curved windows in the rear corners.

The Samba had bi-parting doors in lieu of a sliding door, and could be ordered with a large fabric [[sunroof]]. Volkswagen advertised the Samba for making tourist trips through the [[Alps]].

Standard paint finishes on the Samba were two-tone, usually with the upper bodywork in white. The lower bodywork carried a contrasting color, the areas separated by a decorative strip. The roof carried slightly forward of the windshield at the front, creating an integral visor. The windows had chrome tables and the van had a more comprehensive dashboard than the normal T1.

When Volkswagen started producing the successor of the T1 (the T2) the company also stopped producing the Samba, ending the Samba and the concept of a van with such a high window count.

=== US Chicken tax ===
{{Main|Chicken tax}}
[[File:Kombi Pick Up Aço.jpg|thumb|US sales of Volkswagen vans in pickup and commercial configurations were curtailed by the [[chicken tax]].]]

Certain models of the Volkswagen Type 2 played a role in a historic episode during the early 1960s known as the Chicken War. France and West Germany had placed tariffs on imports of US chicken.<ref>{{cite web |title=To outfox the Chicken Tax, Ford strips its own vans |work=The Wall Street Journal |first=Matthew |last=Dolan |date=22 September 2009 |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB125357990638429655 |access-date=8 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806185747/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB125357990638429655 |archive-date=6 August 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> Diplomacy failed, and in January 1964, two months after taking office, [[Lyndon B. Johnson|President Johnson]] imposed a 25% tax (almost ten times the average US tariff) on potato starch, dextrin, brandy, and [[light truck]]s. Officially, the tax targeted items imported from Europe as approximating the value of lost American chicken sales to Europe.<ref name="nyt1">{{cite news |title=Light Trucks increase profits, but foul air more than cars |work=The New York Times |first=Keith |last=Bradsher |date=30 November 1997 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/30/business/license-pollute-special-report-light-trucks-increase-profits-but-foul-air-more.html?sec=&spon=&pagewanted=all |access-date=27 May 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728121153/http://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/30/business/license-pollute-special-report-light-trucks-increase-profits-but-foul-air-more.html?sec=&spon=&pagewanted=all |archive-date=28 July 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In retrospect, audio tapes from the Johnson White House revealed a ''[[quid pro quo]]'' unrelated to chicken. In January 1964, President Johnson attempted to convince [[United Auto Workers]]' president [[Walter Reuther]] not to initiate a strike just before the 1964 election, and to support the president's civil rights platform. Reuther, in turn, wanted Johnson to respond to [[Volkswagen]]'s increased shipments to the United States.<ref name="nyt1" />

The Chicken Tax directly curtailed importation of German-built Type 2s in configurations that qualified them as [[light truck]]s – that is, commercial vans (panel vans) and [[pickup truck|pickups]]; vans imported in passenger configuration were not affected.<ref name="nyt1" /> In 1964, US imports of trucks from West Germany declined to a value of $5.7&nbsp;million – about one-third the value imported in the previous year. After 1971, Volkswagen cargo vans and pickup trucks, the intended targets, practically disappeared from the US market. While post-1971 Type 2 commercial vans and single-cab and double-cab pickups can be found in the United States today, they are exceedingly rare. Any post-1971 specimen found ostensibly has had its import tariff paid. The "Chicken tax" remains in effect today, even though it is now commonly circumvented by converting passenger vehicles to utility vehicles after they have entered the United States, a form of [[tariff engineering]]. This practice is ironically exercised by [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]] (for its [[Ford Transit Connect|Transit Connect]] van), one of the companies the tax was meant to protect.

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== {{Anchor|T2}}Second generation (T2; 1967) == <!-- Courtesy note per [[WP:RSECT]]: [[Early Bay]] and [[Late Bay]] redirect here -->
{{Infobox automobile
| name                     = Volkswagen Type 2 (T2)
| image                    = 1973-1980 Volkswagen Kombi (T2) van 01.jpg
| production               = {{unbulleted list
  | August 1967 – July 1979 (Europe and US)
  | 1968–1994 ([[Mexico]])
  | 1976 – December 2013 ([[Brazil]])<ref name=TerminationAutocar />
  | 1980–1986 ([[Argentina]])
  }}
| assembly                 = {{unbulleted list
  | West Germany: [[Hannover]]
  | West Germany: [[Emden]]
  | Argentina: [[General Pacheco]]
  | Brazil: [[São Bernardo do Campo]]
  | Mexico: [[Puebla (city)|Puebla]]
  | Australia: [[Clayton, Victoria|Clayton]]<ref name=clubvw />
  | South Africa: [[Uitenhage]]
  }}
| platform                 = [[Volkswagen Group T platform#T2|Volkswagen Group T2 platform]]
| class                    = [[Light commercial vehicle]] ([[M-segment|M]])
| body_style               = {{unbulleted list
  | 4-door [[panel van]]/[[panel truck]]
  | 4-door [[minibus]]
  | 2-door [[pickup truck|pickup]] (regular cab)
  | 3-door [[pickup truck|pickup]] (crew cab)
  }}
| layout                   = [[RR layout]]
| engine                   = {{unbulleted list
  | 1.6&nbsp;[[litre|L]] [[flat-four engine|B4]] ([[petrol engine|petrol]])
  | 1.7&nbsp;L B4 ([[petrol engine|petrol]])
  | 1.8&nbsp;L B4 ([[petrol engine|petrol]])
  | 1.8&nbsp;L [[inline-four engine|I4]] ([[petrol engine|petrol]])
  | 2.0&nbsp;L B4 ([[petrol engine|petrol]])
  }}
| transmission             = {{unbulleted list
  | 4-speed [[manual transmission|manual]]
  | 3-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
  }}
| wheelbase                = {{convert|2400|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| length                   = {{convert|4505|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| width                    = {{convert|1720|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| height                   = {{convert|1940|mm|1|abbr=on}}
| weight                   = 
| related                  = 
| designer                 = 
| successor                = [[Volkswagen Type 2 (T3)]]
| sp                       = uk
}}

In late 1967, the second generation of the Volkswagen Type 2 (T2) was introduced. It was built in West Germany until 1979. In Mexico, the Volkswagen Kombi and Panel were produced from 1970 to 1994. Early models are often called the T2a (or "Early Bay"), models after 1971 are called the T2b (or "Late Bay") and models after 1991 are called the T2c.

[[File:Volkswagen T2ab Pritschenwagen Doppelkabine in Wuppertal, Tersteegenweg (2).jpg|thumb|VW T2a/b crew-cab pickup]]

This second-generation Type 2 lost its distinctive split front [[windshield]], and was {{cvt|22.5|cm|in|0}} longer and considerably heavier than its predecessor. Its common nicknames are ''Breadloaf'' and ''Bay-window'', or ''Loaf'' and ''Bay'' for short.<ref>[http://everything2.com/index.pl?node_id=1084792 "Type II Volkswagen (thing)", section "Type 2/T2"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090817210508/http://everything2.com/index.pl?node_id=1084792 |date=17 August 2009 }} (spells the term "Bread-Loaf")</ref> At 1.6&nbsp;L and {{convert|35|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} DIN, the engine was also slightly larger. The battery and electrical system was upgraded to 12 volts, making it incompatible with electric accessories from the previous generation. The new model eliminated the [[swing axle]] rear suspension and transfer boxes previously used to raise ride height. Instead, [[half-shaft]] axles fitted with [[constant velocity joint]]s raised ride height without the wild changes in [[camber angle|camber]] of the Beetle-based swing axle suspension. The updated Bus transaxle is sought by off-road racers using air-cooled Volkswagen components.

=== T2b ===
The T2b was introduced by way of gradual change over three years. The first models featured rounded bumpers incorporating a step for use when the door was open (replaced by indented bumpers without steps on later models), front doors that opened to 90° from the body, no lip on the front guards, unique engine hatches, and crescent air intakes in the D-[[pillar (car)|pillars]] (later models after the Type 4 engine option was offered, have squared off intakes). The 1971 Type 2 featured a new, 1.6&nbsp;L engine with dual intake ports on each cylinder head and was DIN-rated at {{convert|37|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}}. An important change came with the introduction of front [[disc brake]]s and new roadwheels with brake ventilation holes and flatter hubcaps. Up until 1972, front indicators are set low on the nose rather than high on either side of the fresh air grille – giving rise to their being nicknamed "Low Lights". 1972's most prominent change was a bigger engine compartment to fit the larger 1.7- to 2.0-litre engines from the [[Volkswagen Type 4]], and a redesigned rear end which eliminated the removable rear apron and introduced the larger late tail lights. The air inlets were also enlarged to accommodate the increased cooling air needs of the larger engines.

In 1971 the 1600cc [[Volkswagen air-cooled engine#T1|Type 1 engine]] as used in the Beetle, was supplemented with the 1700cc [[Volkswagen air-cooled engine#T4|Type 4 engine]] – as it was originally designed for the [[Volkswagen Type 4|Type 4]] (411 and 412) models. European vans kept the option of upright fan Type 1 1600 engine but the 1700 Type 4 became standard for US spec models.

[[File:1968-1973 and 1973-1980 Volkswagen Kombi (T2) vans (2011-01-07).jpg|thumb|left|Pre-facelift ''(left)'' and facelifted ''(right)'' Volkswagen Kombi (T2) vans (Australia)]]
[[File:1973-1980 Volkswagen Kombi (T2) van 02.jpg|thumb|left|1973–1980 Volkswagen Kombi (T2) van (Australia)]]

In the Type 2, the [[Volkswagen air-cooled engine#T4|Type 4 engine]], or "pancake engine", was an option for the 1972 model year onward. This engine was standard in models destined for the US and Canada. Only with the Type 4 engine did an [[automatic transmission]] become available for the first time in the 1973 model year. Both engines were 1.7&nbsp;L, DIN-rated at {{convert|49|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} with the [[manual transmission]] and {{convert|46|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} with the automatic. The Type 4 engine was enlarged to 1.8&nbsp;L and {{convert|50|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} DIN for the 1974 model year and again to 2.0&nbsp;L and {{convert|52|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} DIN for the 1976 model year. The two-litre option appeared in South African manufactured models during 1976, originally only in a comparably well-equipped "Executive" model.<ref name=SAM1076>{{cite journal |ref=SAM1076 |journal=SA Motor |title=Volkswagen 2000L Executive Microbus |page=37 |last=English |first=Howard |publisher=Scott Publications |location=Cape Town, South Africa |date=October 1976}}</ref> The 1978 2.0&nbsp;L now featured hydraulic valve lifters, eliminating the need to periodically adjust the valve clearances as on earlier models. The 1975 and later US model years received [[Robert Bosch GmbH|Bosch]] [[Jetronic#L|L-Jetronic]] electronic fuel injection as standard equipment; 1978 was the first year for electronic ignition, utilizing a hall effect sensor and digital controller, eliminating maintenance-requiring contact-breaker points. As with all Transporter engines, the focus in development was not on power, but on low-end [[torque]]. The Type 4 engines were considerably more robust and durable than the Type 1 engines, particularly in Transporter service.{{Citation needed|date=February 2010}}

In 1972, for the 1973 model year, exterior revisions included relocated front turn indicators, squared off and set higher in the valance, above the headlights. Also, square-profiled bumpers, which became standard until the end of the T2 in 1979, were introduced in 1973. Crash safety improved with this change because of a compressible structure behind the front bumper. This meant that the T2b was capable of meeting US safety standards for passenger cars of the time, though not required of vans. The "VW" emblem on the front valance became slightly smaller.

Later model changes were primarily mechanical. By 1974, the T2 had gained its final shape. Very late in the T2's design life, during the late 1970s, the first prototypes of Type 2 vans with [[four-wheel drive]] (4WD) were built and tested.

<gallery>
File:Vw silverfish.jpg|1979 Volkswagen Type 2 (T2) "Silverfish" last-edition bus. These were a limited edition model to mark the final production of T2 models in Europe
File:Volk bus 1968a.jpg|1968 Volkswagen Type 2 (T2) Hard-Top Westfalia "Cream" bus
File:2005 VW Kombi Silver Limited Edition.jpg|Brazilian Volkswagen Type 2 (T2) – 2005 Limited Edition
File:'77 Volkswagen Kombi Westfalia (Auto classique Salaberry-De-Valleyfield '11).JPG|1977 Volkswagen Kombi Westfalia (North America)
File:VolkswagenT1-transporterfvans.jpg|Restored T2 models with body painted in [[flower power]] style
File:Bus12.jpg|Late 70s Volkswagen T2 with Westfalia Camper Package
</gallery>

=== T2c ===
[[File:Volkswagen T2 in Brazil.JPG|thumb|T2c in Brazil]]
[[File:Brazilian Kombi pair.jpg|thumb|An air-cooled and a water-cooled VW Kombi (T2), made in Brazil. Model years 2005 and 2006.]]
[[File:BSB Flex cars 118 09 2008 VW Kombi Total Flex with logo blur.jpg|thumb|[[Brazil]]ian Air Force 2006 Kombi Total Flex is a [[flexible-fuel vehicle]]]]

The T2c, with a roof raised by about {{convert|10|cm|in|abbr=on}} was built starting in the early 1990s for the Mexican, South American and Central American markets. Since 1991, the T2c has been built in México with the water-cooled 1.8&nbsp;L [[inline-four engine|inline four-cylinder]] {{convert|53|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} carbureted engine—easily identified by the large, black front-mounted radiator—and since 1995 with the 1.6&nbsp;L air-cooled engines for the Brazilian market.{{Citation needed|date=February 2016}}

Once production of the original [[Volkswagen Beetle|Beetle]] ended in late 2003, the T2 was the only Volkswagen model with an air-cooled, rear-mounted boxer engine, but then the Brazilian model shifted to a water-cooled engine on 23 December 2005.{{Citation needed|date=February 2016}} There was a 1.6&nbsp;L {{convert|50|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} water-cooled [[diesel engine]] available from 1981 to 1985, which gave fuel economy of 15&nbsp;km/L to 18&nbsp;km/L<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.angelfire.com/sk2/volksline/kombi/pecas.htm |title=Home page do Volkswagen Kombi – O primeiro portal da Kombi Brasileira |publisher=Angelfire.com |access-date=19 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111018101815/http://www.angelfire.com/sk2/volksline/kombi/pecas.htm |archive-date=18 October 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref>—but gave slow performance and its insufficient cooling system led to short engine life.{{Citation needed|date=February 2016}}

The end of the [[Volkswagen air-cooled engine]] worldwide was marked by a Special Edition Kombi. An exclusive silver paint scheme and limited edition emblems were applied to only 200 units in late 2005, and these were sold as 2006 models.{{Citation needed|date=February 2016}}

Stricter [[Vehicle emissions control|emissions regulations]] introduced by the Brazilian government for 2006 forced a shift to a flexible-fuel water-cooled engine{{Citation needed|date=February 2016}} able to [[flexible-fuel vehicle|run on petrol or alcohol]]. Borrowed from the [[Volkswagen Gol]], the engine is a rear-mounted [[List of Volkswagen Group petrol engines#EA111|EA-111 1.4 L 8v Total Flex]] {{convert|1390|cc|1|abbr=on}}, {{convert|58|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} on petrol, and {{convert|60|kW|PS bhp|0|abbr=on}} when run on [[ethanol]], and {{convert|124|Nm|0|abbr=on}} torque.{{citation needed|date=June 2019}}

[[File:VW Kombi Last Edition- Front Edit.jpg|thumb|223x223px|Brazilian Special Edition Kombi, the last variant sold]]

Production of the Brazilian Volkswagen Kombi ended in 2013 with a production run of 600 Last Edition vehicles.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/18/vw-type-2-microbus-production-ending-with-kombi-last-edition/ |work=Auto Express |title=VW Type 2 Microbus production ending with Kombi Last Edition |date=18 August 2013 |access-date=10 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724175805/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/18/vw-type-2-microbus-production-ending-with-kombi-last-edition/ |archive-date=24 July 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> A [[short film]] entitled "''Os Últimos Desejos da Kombi''" ([[English language|English]]: The Kombi's Last Wishes) was made by [[Volkswagen Brazil]] to commemorate the end of production. Brazilian requirements that new cars have driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes were also factors in the end of T2 production.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kombi.vw.com.br |title=Os Últimos Desejos da Kombi |trans-title=Kombi's last wishes |language=pt |publisher=VW |location=Brazil |access-date=3 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131009013649/http://kombi.vw.com.br/pt |archive-date=2013-10-09 |url-status=dead}}</ref>{{citation needed|reason=Need reference to support claim that Brazil needed airbag and ABS in 2013|date=January 2023}}

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== {{Anchor|T3}}Third generation (T3; 1979) ==
{{Main|Volkswagen Type 2 (T3)}}
[[File:Volkswagen Transporter (13946831716).jpg|thumb|VW Type 2 / T3 Transporter]]

The Volkswagen Type 2 (T3), (T25 within the UK) or Vanagon in the United States, the T3 platform was introduced in 1979, and was one of the last new Volkswagen platforms to use an [[air-cooled engine]]. The [[Volkswagen air-cooled engine]] was phased out for a [[water cooling|water-cooled]] [[flat engine|boxer engine]] (still [[rear-engine design|rear-mounted]]) in 1983. Compared to its predecessor the T2, the T3 was larger and heavier, with square corners replacing the rounded edges of the older models. The T3 is sometimes called "the wedge" by enthusiasts to differentiate it from earlier Kombis.{{citation needed|date=September 2019}}

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== {{Anchor|T4}}Fourth generation (T4; 1990) ==
[[File:VW T4 Multivan Allstar.jpg|thumb|Early 1990s Multivan Allstar T4]]
{{Main|Volkswagen Transporter (T4)}}

For 1990, the T4 generation was released, with the model range dropping the Type 2 name in favor of the Transporter nameplate. Over 15 years after the Golf was introduced as the replacement for the Type 1 (Beetle), the Transporter range also adopted a front-engine, front-wheel drive configuration (Syncro 4WD returned as an option). Worldwide, the model range now used water-cooled, fuel-injected engines, with inline (and later VR6) engines replacing the "wasserboxer".

Through much of the world, the T4 was marketed as the Transporter, with 3-row passenger vans known as the Caravelle; the Vanagon name was used in Japan. In the United States, the T4 was marketed as the Eurovan mid-size van for 1993 and from 1999 to 2003; from 1995 to 2005, the Eurovan served as the basis for multiple recreational vehicles marketed through the United States and Canada. Sales of the Transporter in North America ended in 2003.

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== {{Anchor|T5}}Fifth generation (T5; 2003) ==
{{Main|Volkswagen Transporter (T5)}}
[[File:VW Eurovan T5 Multivan.jpg|thumb|2004 Volkswagen Multivan T5]]

The Volkswagen Transporter T5 range is the fifth generation of [[Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles]] medium-sized [[light commercial vehicle]] and people movers. Launched 6 January 2003, the T5 went into full production in April 2003, replacing the fourth generation range.<ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite web |url=http://www.volkswagen-commercial-vehicles.com/vwcms_publish/vwcms/master_public/virtualmaster/en_vwn/unternehmen/chronikuebersicht/2001-heute.html |title=VolkswagenCommercial-Vehicles.com |publisher=Volkswagen-Commercial-Vehicles.com |date=5 August 2008 |access-date=19 October 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080522023330/http://www.volkswagen-commercial-vehicles.com/vwcms_publish/vwcms/master_public/virtualmaster/en_vwn/unternehmen/chronikuebersicht/2001-heute.html |archive-date=22 May 2008}}</ref>

Key markets for the T5 are Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia, France and Turkey. It is not sold in the US market because it is classed as a light truck, accruing the 25% [[chicken tax]] on importation. The T5 has a more aerodynamic design. The angle of the [[windshield]] and A-[[pillar (car)|pillar]] is less; this makes for a large [[dashboard]] and small bonnet.

In June 2009, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles announced the one-millionth T5 rolled off the production line in [[Hanover]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles builds one millionth T5 |url=http://www.volkswagenag.com/vwag/vwcorp/info_center/en/news/2009/06/vw_commercial_vehicles_builds_one_millionth_t5.html |work=volkswagenag.com |publisher=[[Volkswagen Group|Volkswagen AG]] |date=30 June 2009 |access-date=12 November 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720045845/http://www.volkswagenag.com/vwag/vwcorp/info_center/en/news/2009/06/vw_commercial_vehicles_builds_one_millionth_t5.html |archive-date=20 July 2011}}</ref>

T5 GP introduced in 2010. Heavily facelifted with some new power plants including the 180 bi-turbo range topper. These new engines saw the demise of the now "dirty" 5 cylinder units.

Late 2015 will see the arrival of the "Neu Sechs", the New 6. The T6 will offer further engine changes in early 2016, but will launch with the previous generation engines. The new engines will see the introduction of Ad-Blu to meet with euro 6 emission compliance. The new 6 was expected by many to be more than just a facelift.

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== {{Anchor|T6}}Sixth generation (T6; 2015) ==
{{Main|Volkswagen Transporter (T6)}}
[[File:VW T6 Multivan Generation Six 2.0 TDI.JPG|VW Multivan T6|thumb|right]]

The new T6 launched with the old Euro 5 non-AdBlue power-plants, but is offered with a Euro 6 diesel engine with 204bhp and [[Diesel exhaust fluid|AdBlue]]. Three further Euro 6 Adblue diesel power-plants with 84ps, 102ps and 150ps are also offered.

There is some debate in the community over whether the T6 is a new model, or simply a face-lift of the T5. There are obvious external changes to the nose and tailgate, while internally there is a new dash in two different versions. Volkswagen claims refinement to ride, handling and noise levels.

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== Volkswagen Microbus concept vehicle ==
[[File:VW Microbus 2001 1.jpg|thumb|Volkswagen Microbus concept vehicle]]

In 2001, a [[Volkswagen Microbus/Bulli concept vehicles|Volkswagen Microbus concept]] was created, with design cues from the T1 generation in a spirit similar to the New Beetle nostalgia movement. Volkswagen planned to start selling it in the United States market in 2007, but it was scrapped in May 2004 and replaced with a more cost-effective design to be sold worldwide.

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== Names and nicknames ==
Like the Beetle, from the beginning, the Type 2 earned many nicknames from its fans. Popular nicknames in German include ''VW-Bus'', ''Bulli/Bully'' (a portmanteau of ''Bus'' and ''Lieferwagen'' (delivery van)),<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ngkntk.com/newsroom/blog/emea/your-car-your-story-part-4-the-vw-t3-the-last-real-bulli/ |title=Your car, your story – Part 4: The VW T3 - The last real Bulli |publisher=NGK |access-date=19 May 2022}}</ref> ''Hippie-van'', or simply ''der Bus''. The Type 2 was meant to be officially named the Bully, but [[Heinrich Lanz]], producer of the [[Lanz Bulldog]] farm tractor, intervened.{{Citation needed|date=November 2009}} The model was then presented as the Volkswagen Transporter and Volkswagen Kleinbus, but the Bully nickname still caught on.

The official German-language model names Transporter and Kombi (''Kombinationskraftwagen'', combined-use vehicle) have also caught on as nicknames. Kombi is not only the name of the passenger variant but also the [[Australasia]]n and [[Brazil]]ian term for the whole Type 2 family, in much the same way that they are all called VW-Bus in Germany, even the pickup truck variations. In [[Mexico]], the German Kombi was translated as Combi and became a household word thanks to the vehicle's popularity in [[Mexico City]]'s public transportation system. In [[Peru]], where the term ''Combi'' was similarly adopted, the term ''Combi Asesina'' (Murderous Combi) is often used for buses of similar size, because of the notorious recklessness and competition of bus drivers in [[Lima]] to get passengers. In [[Portugal]] it is known as ''Pão-de-Forma'' (Breadloaf) because its design resembles a bread baked in a mold. Similarly, in [[Denmark]], the Type 2 is referred to as ''[[Rugbrød]]'' ([[Rye bread]]). [[Finland|Finns]] dubbed it ''Kleinbus'' (mini-bus), as many taxicab companies adopted it for group transportation; the name Kleinbus has become an appellative for all passenger vans. The vehicle is also known as Kleinbus in [[Chile]].

In the US, however, it is a VW bus, minibus, hippie-mobile, hippie bus, hippie van, "combie", Microbus, or Transporter to aficionados. The early versions produced before 1967 used a split front windshield (giving rise to the nickname "Splitty"), and their comparative rarity has led to their becoming sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The next version, sold in the US market from 1968 to 1979, is characterised by a large, curved windshield and is commonly called a "bay-window". It was replaced by the [[Vanagon]], of which only the [[Westfalia]] camper version has a common nickname, "Westy".

A popular nickname for the T3 was "2.6i" or "transi" in reference to the 2.6 liter Microbus/Caravelle sold in South Africa and their robust design being a popular choice for transportation of children respectively. Kombi is also a generic nickname for vans and minibuses in South Africa, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe, often used as a means of public transportation. In [[Nigeria]] it is called Danfo.

In the UK, it is known as a "Campervan". In France, it was called a "camping-car" (usually hyphenated) though this has been expanded to include other, often more specialized vehicles in more recent times.

Among VW enthusiasts in countries of the former [[Yugoslavia]], especially in [[Serbia]] and [[Croatia]], VW T2 bus is commonly called a "Terrorist", probably due to its cameo appearance in the ''[[Back to the Future]]'' film in which it is driven by a group of Libyan terrorists.<ref>{{cite web |title=VW bus nicknames throughout the world |work=The Late Bay |url=http://thelatebay.com/index.php?threads/vw-bus-nicknames-throughout-the-world.34945/ |access-date=4 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180806024845/http://thelatebay.com/index.php?threads%2Fvw-bus-nicknames-throughout-the-world.34945%2F |archive-date=6 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Legendarni kombi uskoro i na električni pogon |trans-title=The legendary van will soon be electrically powered |url=http://www.energetika-net.com/vijesti/elektromobilnost/legendarni-kombi-uskoro-i-na-elektricni-pogon-25279 |access-date=5 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180806030417/http://www.energetika-net.com/vijesti/elektromobilnost/legendarni-kombi-uskoro-i-na-elektricni-pogon-25279 |archive-date=6 August 2018 |url-status=live |work=Energetika Marketing |language=Croatian |location=Croatia}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=VW Kombi odlazi u istoriju |work=B92 |date=17 August 2013 |url=https://www.b92.net/automobili/komentari.php?nav_id=743727 |access-date=5 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180806054607/https://www.b92.net/automobili/komentari.php?nav_id=743727 |archive-date=6 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

== Mexican production ==
[[File:VW Combi 1980 Mex.JPG|thumb|A 1980 Volkswagen Combi in Mexico City]]

T2 production began in 1970 at the [[Puebla]] assembly factory.

Offered initially only as a nine-passenger version called the Volkswagen Combi (Kombi in Brazil), and from 1973 also its cargo van version called the ''Volkswagen Panel'', both variants were fitted with the 1.5&nbsp;L air-cooled boxer engine and four-speed manual gearbox. In 1974, the 1.6&nbsp;L {{convert|44|bhp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} boxer engine replaced the 1.5 previous one, and production continued this way up to 1987. In 1987, the water-cooled 1.8&nbsp;L {{convert|85|bhp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} [[inline-four engine|inline four-cylinder]] engine replaced the air-cooled 1.6&nbsp;L. This new model is recognisable by its black grille (for its engine coolant radiator), bumpers and moldings.

In 1975, [[Volkswagen de México]] ordered two specially made [[pickup truck|pickups]] from Germany, one single cab and one double cab, for the Puebla plant. These were evaluated for the possibility of building pickups in Mexico, and were outfitted with every option except the Arctic package, including front and rear fog lights, intermittent wipers, trip odometer, clock, bumper rubber, PVC tilt, and dual doors on the single cab storage compartment. VW de Mexico was interested in having the lights, wiring, brake systems and other parts manufactured in Mexico. Ultimately, VW de Mexico declined to produce pickups, and the pickups were sold to an Autohaus, a Volkswagen dealer in San Antonio, Texas, since they could not be sold in Mexico. By law, no German-made Volkswagens were to be sold in Mexico. These were probably the only pickups that were produced in Germany for Mexican import, and have the "ME" export code on the M-code plate. The green double cab was sold to a new owner in New York, and has been lost track of. The light gray (L345, licht grau) single cab still exists. Pickups were not manufactured in Mexico, nor were they imported into Mexico from Germany, save for these two examples.

In 1988, a luxury variant – the Volkswagen Caravelle – made its debut in the Mexican market to compete with the [[Nissan Van C22 (Vanette)|Nissan Ichi Van]], which was available in cargo, passenger and luxury versions.

The main differences between the two are that the Caravelle was sold as an eight-passenger version, while the Combi was available as a nine-passenger version, the Caravelle was only painted in metallic colors, while the Combi was only available in non-metallic colors, and the Caravelle was fitted with an AM/FM stereo cassette sound system, tinted windows, velour upholstery, reading lights, mid and rear headrests, and wheel covers from the European T3 model.

In 1991, the {{convert|10|cm|in|abbr=on}} higher roof made its debut in all variants, and the Combi began to be offered in eight- or nine-passenger variants. In 1991, since Mexican anti-pollution regulations required a three-way [[catalytic converter]], a [[Digifant]] [[fuel injection]] system replaced the previous [[carburetor]]. The three variants continued without change until 1994.

In 1994, production ended in [[Mexico]], with models being imported from [[Brazil]]. The Caravelle was discontinued, and both the Combi and the Panel were only offered in white color and finally in 2002, replaced by the T4 EuroVan Pasajeros and EuroVan Carga, passenger and cargo van in long [[wheelbase]] version, [[straight-five engine|inline five-cylinder]] [[List of discontinued Volkswagen Group petrol engines#2.5 R5 75-85kW|2.5 L 115 bhp]] and five-speed manual gearbox imported from Germany.

== Hippie van ==
[[File:VW Bug "Light".jpg|thumb|Volkswagen Type 2 on its way to the [[Woodstock]] music festival in 1969]]
[[File:Colorful Volkswagen T2 - 2009.jpg|thumb|Colorful Volkswagen Type 2]]

The VW Type 2 became popular with the [[counterculture of the 1960s]], thanks to its ability to transport a large group of people while being cheap and easy to maintain.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://qz.com/1006112/how-the-volkswagen-van-became-iconic/ |title=The magic recipe that caused hippies to fall in love with the incredible, enduring Volkswagen van |first=Chris |last=Ebbert |date=17 June 2017 |website=Quartz |access-date=6 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803074606/https://qz.com/1006112/how-the-volkswagen-van-became-iconic/ |archive-date=3 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> Its design was simple yet spacious, thanks largely to the rear-mounted engine. It contrasted with the large sedans and station wagons that were normal at the time, giving the van an alternative and rebellious image. Vans were often painted with extravagant designs in bright colors, making them stand out on the road even more.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/trucks/a26207/volkswagen-microbus-vw-bus/ |title=Peace, Love and the VW Bus |last=Stewart |first=Ben |work=Popular Mechanics |location=US |date=26 April 2017 |access-date=6 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803074647/https://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/trucks/a26207/volkswagen-microbus-vw-bus/ |archive-date=3 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> The "hippie van" remains iconic today, thanks to being featured on the cover of [[album]]s by musicians such as [[Bob Dylan]] and [[the Beach Boys]],<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130929/business/709299963/ |title=VW's hippie van ends its long, strange trip |work=Daily Herald |location=US |date=29 September 2013 |access-date=3 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803104240/https://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130929/business/709299963/ |archive-date=3 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> and being used by fans of the [[Grateful Dead]] while following the band on tour.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/9/26/4772614/last-vw-bus-to-be-produced-this-year |title=VW to end production of iconic hippie bus this year |date=26 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180804105923/https://www.theverge.com/2013/9/26/4772614/last-vw-bus-to-be-produced-this-year |archive-date=4 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> But most iconic of all, the [[Woodstock|music festival Woodstock]], which was held in the summer of 1969, saw plenty of brightly painted vans transporting excited young crowds.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/volkswagen-takes-a-trip-back-to-the-1960s-in-nostalgic-ad-saluting-its-free-spirited-owners/ |title=Volkswagen Takes a Trip Back to the 1960s in Nostalgic Ad Saluting Its Free-Spirited Owners |access-date=5 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805234145/https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/volkswagen-takes-a-trip-back-to-the-1960s-in-nostalgic-ad-saluting-its-free-spirited-owners/ |archive-date=5 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Van]]
* [[Minibus]]
* [[Volkswagen Bus]]
* [[Volkswagen Transporter]]
* [[Volkswagen I.D. Buzz]]
* [[Volkswagen Westfalia Camper]]
* [[Volkswagen California]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|Volkswagen Type 2}}
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[[Category:Volkswagen vehicles|Type 2]]
[[Category:Minibuses]]
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