Volkswagen, the T2 pickup that no one remembers anymore

Il Volkswagen Transporter o The Bulli, like the Beetle from which it originated, is undoubtedly one of the most used models over time as the basis for various transformations, sometimes very different and difficult to trace back to the original.

They also include a small work vehicle offered in countries such as Mexico, Turkey and Pakistan, which in this case is the Transporter. T2I figured out the essence, that is, the mechanics.

Heart T2

The necessity that led to the birth of this economic vehicle, although capable, can be traced back to oil crisis 70s, which increased the demand for less thirsty and inexpensive cars with good performance. The transporter only had a subset of these functions, because its mechanics completely limited the use of space and made it difficult to build reasonably practical pickups on it.

Therefore, an important model was developed, also in terms of style, which borrowed its mechanics, namely the engine. 1.6 boxer Air-cooled 50-speed transmission with 4 hp, but front-wheel drive and 1 tonne payload, which were installed under the cab.

Rarity

The model was produced directly by Volkswagen, which offered it in mounting kit in Germany or as a finished model for developing countries, in this case the assembly took place in Mexico, at the Puebla plant, which also produced the T2 Transporter.

In the second half of the 70s, or rather between 75 and 79, almost nothing was built. 6.200 samples and today it is quite difficult to find even one of these vehicles safe and sound, despite the fact that ease of repair and low operating costs have ensured a long career.

Il name it varied from country to country: in the Philippines it was known as "Trakbayan", which translates to "village truck", and in Indonesia, where it had a slightly different design, it was known as "Mitra" or "partner".