VW Celebrates the 65th Anniversary of the Beetle in the U.S.

This month Volkswagen is celebrating the 65th anniversary since the first VW Beetle arrived in the U.S.

VW Beetle

This month Volkswagen is celebrating the 65th anniversary since the first VW Beetle arrived in the U.S. In January of 1949, a Volkswagen “Type 1,” or Beetle, was shipped to New York City by Ben Pon, Sr., a Dutch businessman and the world’s first official Volkswagen importer. That car–and another, subsequent Beetle– found buyers the same year, marking the first time that Volkswagens were sold in the U.S.
VW Beetle

In the past 65 years VW has sold more than 5.5 million Beetles. “Since its arrival in the United States 65 years ago, the Volkswagen Beetle has preserved its reputation of being more than just a car, but a symbol of uniqueness and freedom,” said Michael Horn, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. “The Beetle has become part of the cultural fabric in America and we are proud that its rich heritage continues to live with fans around the States.”

VW Beetle

Last year VW sold more than 43,000 Beetles in the U.S.

Source: Volkswagen