Originally designed by Volkswagen as a wagon to carry panels round their car plant in Wolfsburg, Germany, it was spotted by a dutch importer who worked with VW during the 1940s to develop the concept of a "combi" camper van.
Despite a reputation for being underpowered, having dreadful brakes and suffering frequent electrical faults, VW campers gained popularity throughout the world and remain a cult symbol that is dearly cherised by countless thousands.
Numbered among their fans are celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, Formula 1's Jenson Button, Pete Townsend and Roger Daltry from The Who - and actor Martin Clunes. They have become collector's items (especially the 'splitties' - early models built with a split two-part windscreen) among many who crave the freedom of the 1960's hippy era or the modern surfing scene.
Anyone know how many have found their way to Gabriola?
Anyone know how many have found their way to Gabriola?
2 comments:
You have forgotten Sooty among your celebrity owners.
When I was nine we had a holiday in a dormobile - a very similar vehicle - I have never been so uncomfortable or so cold, not even at guide camp!
PS We had a thunderstorm and a flood at one guide camp and a plague of ants and very primitive trench latrines at another
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