In 1934, Leader of Nazi Germany, Adolf Hitler announced a cheap, simple car to be mass-produced for his country’s new road network. Hitler assigned Ferdinand Porsche to head the project named Volkswagen – the people’s car. The ceremony of the laying of the foundation stone of Volkswagen factory at Wolfsburg took place in 1938, which later became the biggest factory of automobiles in the world. The first car rolled out from the factory in 1939 and it was called KDF Wagen (Kraft Durch Freude Wagen) which means “Car of the force by means of joy”. The KDF was such a modern and revolutionary car to make the competitors look like obsolete. Till ceasing production in Puebla, Mexico in 2003, a total of 21 Million+ units of VW Beetles have so far been produced, which is a record number of production of a single model of an auto manufacturer.
Today, we know this KDF Wagen as Volkswagen Beetle or some also call them as Bug. The Beetle’s journey in Bangladesh started in 1956-57 and around 50 units were imported in Bangladesh at that time. Import of brand new VW Beetle and other models in the country continued till 1984. At Present only few classic VW Beetles are seen alive and running. Volkswagen Club of Bangladesh, formed consisting of VW passionate souls, mechanics are currently trying to preserve these German history in Bangladesh. The club helps anyone who are interested to learn about VW by sharing knowledge or helping someone who is restoring a VW by outsourcing parts and help & assistance.
Recently the club gathered for friendly hangout at Rouf Bhai’s VW garage located in Paribagh. Rouf bhai is said to be the master of the VWs in Bangladesh. He is running this garage since 1984 and working on the VWs since 1963. I was very lucky to attend this hangout. Living ex-employees of The Modern Motors Limited, Dhaka, and then Volkswagenwerk AG., Germany agent in Bangladesh were invited on that day. Veteran Volkswagen owners who used to frequent Modern Motors Limited with their VWs came to meet these guys with great enthusiasm. Some met after 20 years or so. For me the hangout was very resourceful for my automotive journalism. VW owners shared their interesting old stories, trip experiences, and other cool facts about the VW Beetle. I feel some kind of achievement after meeting these wonderful souls who are trying to keep this VW culture alive in our country, even after facing so many challenges. I on behalf of Auto Rebellion family feel proud to work with Volkswagen Club of Bangladesh, and always ready to provide any kind of support to the club.
To know more about Volkswagen Club of Bangladesh, please join their Facebook group: https://goo.gl/X9IslO
Founder of Auto Rebellion | Guest writer for zerotohundred.com