Volkswagen

The word “Volkswagen” means “The People’s Car” in German. Made with the customer in mind, it’s no surprise that so many Arlington, Mansfield, Grand Prairie, and Forest Hill residents drive a Volkswagen. Volkswagen was founded in 1937 by the German Labor Front in Berlin. After World War II, Volkswagen became an important element of West German regeneration. Volkswagens were first sold in America in 1949, but only two units were sold that year. Volkswagen of America was formed in April 1955 to standardize sales and service in the United States. Production of the popular Type 1 Volkswagen Beetle increased dramatically over the years, the total reaching one million in 1955. In the 1960’s, Volkswagen became popular in America, as the beach and dune buggie Volkswagen Beetle surged in popularity. The Beetle was also largely popularized after its appearance in The Beatles’ Abbey Road album cover. In 1972, Volkswagen held the world production record for the most-produced, single make of car in history. After the Beetle, the Volkswagen Golf became the next popular car by Volkswagen. The Volkswagen GTI was voted the Car of the Year in 1985 by Motor Trend, and the third-generation Golf was the European Car of the Year in 1990.