VW Microbus

Thursday 17 September 2009
The Volkswagen Microbus Concept Car (also known as the Volkswagen New Microbus and Volkswagen Microbus Concept) was a concept car recalling the original Volkswagen Microbus and first presented at the 2001 North American International Auto Show.
The new Microbus was completely modern compared to its predecessor, featuring a 7-inch screen in the center console and a second ceiling-located 7-inch screen that allowed the driver to see behind the vehicle. In June 2002 Volkswagen announced that the Microbus, using the platform of the forthcoming T5 light van, was scheduled for production commencing during 2003 at the company's Hanover plant, ramping up to 80,000 units annually by 2005. The launch was defered, however, and the project was formally canceled in early 2005. In 2005, VW instead announced that Chrysler would build minivans for Volkswagen in the United States, while in Europe the VW Transporter Multivan would fill the niche previously intended for the reborn Microbus.
The replica by Hongwell is really ugly, but the car itself is very interesting. That is why I had to have it in my collection.

Technical data:
- engine: V6
- capacity: 3200 cc
- horsepower: 231 HP
- gearbox: 6+1
- top speed: 210 km/h