The recently unveiled Volkswagen Type 2 Schulwagen has generated significant buzz among automobile enthusiasts. After spending 43 years hidden away in an Ohio barn, this unique vehicle has been lovingly restored and made its public debut at an event in Huntington Beach, California. The Schulwagen holds a special place in Volkswagen’s history and represents a pivotal moment for the company’s expansion in the United States.
The Schulwagen, which translates to “school vehicle” in German, was created after Volkswagen terminated its contract with U.S. importer Max Hoffman and established its own U.S. division, Volkswagen of America. With the goal of building a strong dealer network, Volkswagen representatives Will Van De Camp and Geoffrey Lange embarked on a mission in 1954 to train dealership staff on how to work on VW Beetles and Microbuses. They requested three service tech trainers and two Type 2 vans to travel around the country and conduct training sessions.
These Schulwagen vehicles were based on the Type 2 Kombi model and turned out to be quite costly, with each van amounting to over $5,000—a significant sum of money at that time. In total, Volkswagen produced 14 Schulwagen vehicles, making them the most expensive VW models of their era.
The recently unveiled Schulwagen is the only known surviving vehicle from this fleet. Sitting dormant in an Ohio barn for over four decades, it was discovered by collector Lind Bjornsen. Bjornsen dedicated himself to restoring the vehicle, removing ten layers of paint to reveal the original Volkswagen of America lettering. Additionally, he found some unique equipment, such as a rear workbench, which helped authenticate the van’s provenance. The factory confirmed that the barn find is indeed the Schulwagen that was delivered to VW of America in January 1955. Bjornsen then embarked on a painstaking five-month restoration process, returning the vehicle to its original condition.
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The debut of the restored Schulwagen coincided with International VW Bus Day and the introduction of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz, an electric vehicle that serves as a spiritual successor to the iconic Microbus. Although the ID.Buzz won’t be used for dealer training purposes, it shares a common thread with the Schulwagen—an elevated price point. Expected to cost around $65,000, the ID.Buzz will join the ranks of the most expensive Volkswagens currently available for purchase.
The excitement surrounding the Schulwagen’s restoration hints at the enduring legacy of Volkswagen’s Type 2 van. Often referred to as the Microbus, this iconic vehicle has captured the hearts of countless individuals worldwide. The Type 2 van is not only beloved for its unique appearance but also for its versatility. Over the years, it has been associated with a wide range of activities, from road trips and camping adventures to countercultural movements. The van has become a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a laid-back lifestyle.
While the Type 2 van holds a cherished place in history, Volkswagen is looking to the future with the ID.Buzz. The electric version of the Microbus aims to marry nostalgia with cutting-edge technology. Set to be released in the United States as a 2025 model, the ID.Buzz will boast three rows of seats, an enhanced battery pack, and a more powerful electric motor. It represents Volkswagen’s commitment to electric mobility and its desire to stay at the forefront of the automotive industry.
In conclusion, the emergence of the restored Volkswagen Type 2 Schulwagen after 43 years has ignited excitement among Volkswagen enthusiasts. This unique vehicle played an integral role in Volkswagen’s expansion in the United States, serving as a training tool for dealership staff. Its restoration, alongside the unveiling of the ID.Buzz electric Microbus, marks a significant moment for Volkswagen—a blending of the company’s storied past with its ambitious future. With its iconic design, cultural significance, and commitment to electric mobility, the Schulwagen and the ID.Buzz embody the spirit of Volkswagen’s enduring legacy.
