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Kombi celebrates 60 years


Volkswagen's iconic Kombi van turns 60 this year and the German carmaker is preparing a fitting celebration.

A three-day event in Germany in October is expected to attract thousands of Kombi enthusiasts and their vehicles.

The first Kombi was built by VW staff to transport heavy panels around the Hamburg factory, but became a full production model after it was seen by a Dutch dealer.

In the 60 years since its introduction the Kombi, now in its fifth generation, has been the vehicle of choice for the flower-power generation and holiday campers, a people mover and a humble goods carrier.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is behind the international VW Camper event, from October 5-7 in Hanover. Thousands of unusual Kombis are expected to make the journey.

“Scarcely any other vehicle evokes as many emotions as the VW Kombi,” Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand management spokesman Stephen Schaller says. “Back then it stood for new departures, economic success, independence, fun and travel.

“It is pleasant, reliable and a real cult vehicle. We want to establish the unrivalled legacy of our brand with the international VW Camper event.”

At the event, visitors will be able to see lovingly restored models such as the T1, T2, T3 and T4 and talk to their owners. They will also be able to see which model was on the road in which decade, and browse through the latest products.