Factory code: Type 11
On 27 December 1945, production of the Type 1 begins: Volkswagen starts with just under 6,000 employees and assembles a total of 55 vehicles by the end of the year. Initially, the Volkswagen is only available to public institutions and the British military. Private customers only join the customer base in significant numbers after the currency reform in June 1948.
The decision taken in 1947 to export the Volkswagen Type 1 – later known as the “Beetle” – leads to a division into standard and export models that remains in place for over three decades. The export model (Type 11A) differs from the standard model in a few chrome parts (e.g. bumpers and hubcaps) and improved equipment (e.g. adjustable front seats).
Because manufacturing a curved rear window would have been too expensive, the engineers opt for a two-piece window. This later gives rise to the nickname of the Volkswagen 1100 saloon: "Pretzel Beetle". The matt paintwork of the early years is characteristic: the poor paint quality does not allow for a deep shine.
The nickname of the Volkswagen Type 1 soon becomes established as the common name – the little "Beetle" becomes a great success.
