The internet rumor has been rather quiet about the Volkswagen Bulli since its world debt at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, but a new report has sprouted up suggesting VW brass are keen on seeing the retro van move into the company’s production portfolio.
According to a new report from Autocar, VW executives are “very serious” about putting the Bulli into production. Although the concept version of the Bulli on hand at the Geneva show utilized an electric drivetrain, the model tipped for production would be powered by a conventional engine.
If given the go-ahead, the Bulli would likely be built at VW’s Puebla, Mexico plant alongside the Beetle. VW believes the Bulli could be a smash hit in the United States, thanks to the cult status of the Microbus it was design after.
“As a designer, I am convinced by this idea,” says group design chief Walter de’Silva. “We don’t have a space for another conventional MPV, but this one would be desirable on a different level, combining practicality with the heritage appeal.”
That heritage could prove to be a big part of the Bulli’s business case as VW executives see that emotional attachment as an advantage over increasing Korean competition. If ultimately given the green light, the Bulli could be on U.S. roads by 2014.
References
1.’VW Bulli for…’ view
