The Demise of the Volkswagen Beetle: A Departure That Won't Last Forever

In a surprising turn of events, the iconic Volkswagen Beetle has met its demise, leaving car enthusiasts nostalgic for the beloved nameplate. While the automotive industry is capitalizing on the EV revolution by reintroducing cherished names and concepts, the Beetle, once adorned with adoration, seems to have lost its charm in recent times. Volkswagen's chief executive, Thomas Schäfer, expressed his doubts about the possibility of a third-generation Beetle, indicating that the time has passed for this legendary vehicle.

When asked about the potential comeback of the Beetle, Schäfer firmly stated, "I don't think so because there are certain vehicles that have had their day. It wouldn't make sense to bring it back." Drawing a parallel with the Scirocco, he highlighted the importance of investing in new technologies and balancing costs. Schäfer's perspective on making prudent investments is hard to dispute, considering the declining sales figures of the previous Beetle model leading up to its discontinuation.

Looking back, the Beetle had experienced some impressive sales figures in the past. In 2007, Volkswagen sold 36,421 New Beetles in the United States, which increased to 43,134 units in 2011 when the last-generation Beetle was introduced. However, as time passed, sales dwindled, reaching a mere 14,411 units in the final full year of production in 2018. Volkswagen had already capitalized on the success of the New Beetle, and attempting to revive it again could be perceived as desperate, yielding diminishing returns with each iteration.

While bidding farewell to the Beetle, Volkswagen is focused on future endeavors. The market demand for affordable electric vehicles (EVs) remains relatively low, with shoppers seeking different types of vehicles. Volkswagen recognizes this shifting landscape and has set its sights on models like the ID.Buzz—a versatile multipurpose vehicle that aligns with the current trend of adventurous and spacious cars, offering greater potential for success and profitability.

Although we bid adieu to the Beetle for now, it may not be a permanent farewell. As the production costs of EVs decrease over time, it becomes increasingly feasible for Volkswagen to reimagine a familiar retro-styled vehicle, such as an ID.Golf. One can envision a future where EVs resemble interchangeable platforms, allowing for nostalgic designs to be reintroduced effortlessly. After all, that is precisely what the New Beetle represented—an old concept donning a new hat.