Despite an appearance in Netflix’s upcoming animated film, the electric Beetle concept is not happening.
As we all know, there has been a significant absence in VW‘s lineup in the last few years — the Beetle. The famous car was introduced in 1938 as a cheap and reliable model, yet it was discontinued in 2019 due to decreasing sales. That said, given the manufacturer just launched the ID. Buzz, reviving the Type 2’s legacy, many assumed the Beetle would receive the same electrified treatment. Not to mention VW also introduced the E-Bugster Concept in 2012 and recently collaborated with the creator of the “Miraculous: Ladybug and Cat Noir” animated film to feature a cartoon version of the electric Beetle in the movie.
Unfortunately, that won’t be the case. In a recent interview with Autocar, VW CEO Thomas Schäfer says the Beetle had its day and will not be revived. “I don’t think so because there are certain vehicles that have had their day. It wouldn’t make sense to bring it back,” said the CEO. In fact, the same opinion stands for another iconic VW product, the Scirocco.
Schäfer essentially said he doesn’t want VW to do the same thing over and over again. The manufacturer wants to build something new instead — the idea of investing in something old simply does not align with the brand’s current vision. “Going forward with balancing all these technologies and the cost that is associated with it, you’ve got to invest money in the best possible place,” he added.
In short, the German carmaker has clarified it would rather invest its money in developing something new and exciting instead of focusing on the past. While VW surely has a rich heritage to be proud of, it believes it’s not the only thing defining the brand
And with that, there’s only one thing left to say — so long, Beetle.
