The origin of all of today's vans and transporters can be traced back to the panel truck used for in-plant transport at Wolfsburg plant in the late 1940s, which inspired Dutch importer Ben Pon to come up with an idea for a transport vehicle. Manufacturer developed several prototypes for a spacious vehicle suitable for transport purposes in the late 1940s. Since none of the initially desired names could be used without restriction, the new vehicle class was given the name Transporter . The first-generation Transporter went into series production on March 8, 1950. The vehicle, with its typical V-shaped front end and split windshield, was available in various versions, including a minibus. The technology was based on that of the Type 1, the so-called Beetle, so the T1 had an air-cooled four-cylinder boxer engine. The output of the reliable rear-mounted 1.2-liter engine increased to 34 hp from 1961. The luxury version of the minibus, the nine-seater special model, is still called the Samba Bus today and spreads an unmistakable automotive charm with oval skylights, very comfortable seats, with a folding roof as well as very many chrome parts. Thanks to all movable doors, the kit allows a deep insight into the spacious interior. According to the great demand also in the USA, either the European or American version can be built. Model details: multi-part body detailed interior with dashboard and seats movable doors and tailgate movable front wheel steering roof can be built either closed or with folding roof pushed together engine replica rotating wheels European and American bumper designs chromed hubcaps, door handles, windshield wipers and chromed front emblem authentic decals with decorative stripes and various license plates (D, NL, F, GB and USA)