Beetle: The History of an Icon - Alessandro Sannia

Beetle: The History of an Icon

By Alessandro Sannia

The Volkswagen Beetle is one of the most iconic cars of all time. With its distinctive shape and timeless design, the Beetle has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world. In this comprehensive and beautifully illustrated book, Alessandro Sannia tells the complete story of the Beetle, from its humble beginnings as a people's car to its rise to global stardom.

The Early Years

The Beetle was born in the 1930s, when Ferdinand Porsche was commissioned by the German government to design a car that was affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient. Porsche's design, which he called the "KdF-Wagen" (Strength Through Joy Car), was simple but ingenious. The car featured a rear-mounted, air-cooled engine, a streamlined body, and a spacious interior.

In 1938, the first Beetle rolled off the production line at the Volkswagen factory in Wolfsburg, Germany. The car was an immediate success, and by the outbreak of World War II, over 300,000 Beetles had been produced.

The Post-War Boom

After the war, the Beetle became a symbol of Germany's economic recovery. The car was exported all over the world, and by the 1950s, it was the best-selling car in the United States. The Beetle's popularity was due in part to its affordability, but it also appealed to drivers who appreciated its unique design and fun-to-drive nature.

The Beetle in America

The Beetle was particularly popular in the United States, where it became a symbol of the counterculture movement of the 1960s. The car was seen as a symbol of freedom and individuality, and it was often customized with psychedelic paint jobs and other accessories.

The End of an Era

The Beetle continued to be produced until 2003, when Volkswagen finally decided to discontinue the model. By that time, over 21 million Beetles had been produced, making it one of the most successful cars of all time.

The Beetle Today

The Beetle may be gone, but it is not forgotten. The car remains a popular collector's item, and it is still seen on the roads today. The Beetle is a true automotive icon, and it will always be remembered as one of the most beloved cars of all time.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are a fan of the Volkswagen Beetle, or if you are simply interested in automotive history, then this book is a must-read. Alessandro Sannia's comprehensive and beautifully illustrated history of the Beetle is a fascinating look at one of the most iconic cars of all time.

Order Your Copy Today!

Beetle: The History of an Icon is available now from your favorite bookseller. Order your copy today and learn the complete story of this legendary car.