The 1942 KdF Wagen, also known as the Volkswagen Beetle, was a car produced by the German automaker Volkswagen during World War II. The car was designed by Ferdinand Porsche in the 1930s as a cheap, practical car for the masses, and was initially marketed under the KdF (Kraft durch Freude) name.
However, production of the car was severely limited during the war due to resource shortages and the prioritization of military production. In fact, production of the KdF Wagen ceased entirely in 1944 as Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg factory was converted to produce military equipment.
Despite its limited production, the KdF Wagen has become an icon of automotive history, and thousands of examples survive today. The car’s simple design, durable construction, and low cost made it popular with drivers around the world, and it was eventually produced in millions of units.
Today, the Volkswagen Beetle remains a beloved classic car, with enthusiasts around the world working to restore, maintain, and enjoy these historic vehicles.
