In the midst of California’s devastating Palisades Fire, one image stood out ... a blue and white 1977 Volkswagen T2 Bus, nicknamed Azul, standing nearly untouched amid the charred ruins around it. The photo went viral, capturing the hearts of many who saw it as a miracle amidst devastation.
Owned by Megan Weinraub, a surfboard designer from Malibu, the bus was parked on what would become a blaze-devastated street after a day of surfing. While the photo made the bus look untouched, the truth was harsher: one side bore melted plastic, blistered paint, cracked windows, and soot deep inside.
Volkswagen jmped on the viral story and stepped in to restore the beloved vehicle. At their Oxnard Engineering Center, VW technicians dedicated over 2,000 hours and replaced more than 900 parts to breathe life back into Azul. The bus needed extensive mechanical repairs engine tuning, wiring replacements, and structural restoration all performed with meticulous care to preserve its 1970s charm.
For Megan, this restoration was a lifeline. She purchased Azul from a friend who once lived in it during college, turning it from a classic vehicle into a symbol of new beginnings. The restored bus made its debut at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show and later appeared at the Petersen Automotive Museum.
Now fully restored and ready for new adventures along the California coast.