Production of the Volkswagen Beetle, an iconic car
model that was revived in the United States about 20 years ago, will
end next year, VW of America said Thursday.
The decision, which it announced in a statement, comes as the company
shifts emphasis to sport utility vehicles (SUVs) to meet consumer
demand.
"The loss of the Beetle after three generations, over nearly seven
decades, will evoke a host of emotions from the Beetle's many devoted
fans," said Hinrich J Woebcken, president and chief executive of
Volkswagen Group of America.
As the company moves to being a more family-focused carmaker in the
US and ramps up its strategy for electric cars, there are no
immediate plans to replace the Beetle, Woebcken said.
But he then hinted that the car could return, referring to the ID
BUZZ, a modern interpretation of the legendary Volkswagen bus. "I
would also say, 'Never say never.'"
The "Bug," as it is affectionately known in the United States, first
hit the US in 1949 and enjoyed great success. It had a starring role
as Herbie in the 1968 Disney film, " The Love Bug." Sales peaked that
year at about 423,000 units, according to Bloomberg News.
The car returned in the 1990s when VW began production at its plant
in Puebla, Mexico. Last year, VW delivered just 15,166 units, down
3.2 per cent.
Before VW ceases production of the car the company will release two
special models this year, VW of America said in the news release.