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9 years ago, Volkswagen unveiled the Microbus concept at the 2001 North American International Auto Show. Despite high praise and an official green-light for production, the model was shelved due to cost concerns. It's time to dust off the periodic dream of a new Volkswagen Microbus. The UK's Auto Express reports that Klaus Bischoff, chief designer for the Volkswagen brand, thinks a new version of the classic Camper is a fundamental part of his job. Speaking with Auto Express, Bischoff stated "I would not be doing my job, at Volkswagen, properly if I was not thinking of bringing back the Camper. Volkswagen is developing a new Microbus with global design influences. According to Bischoff, the new model could be a traditional MPV with a conventional interior or it could take on a much bolder design, being more flexible and versatile - perhaps one that is closer in spirit to the original model. If this rumor sticks, we are likely to see a concept in 2012. Stay tuned!
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Volkswagen AG officially announced that the Microbus will be put into production with a targeted release in 2005. Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder, Chairman of the Board of Management Volkswagen AG, said: "Having reviewed the economic requirements for building the Microbus in the Group, we have come to the conclusion that, based on the 5000 x 5000 project and a thorough restructuring of the Hanover site, the conditions are good." The 5000 x 5000 project refers to a unique plan whereby Volkswagen will employ 5,000 people for a gross wage of DM 5,000. Volkswagen claims it has its sites set on a new segment - "a MPV combining striking design and high functionality with the comfort of a limousine. Dr. Pischetsrieder emphasized that "with the Microbus, a legend begun some 50 years ago when the first VW bus left the production line here is now returning to Hanover. The VW bus was never just a means of transport, it has always been an emotive cult object. The public's reaction at motor shows combined with the findings of market studies already show us that the Microbus design has a spontaneous appeal, and that the vehicle will follow in the footsteps of its successful predecessor." This announcement ends months of speculation surrounding the actual decision to build the Microbus. Dr. Pischetsrieder was reportedly a Microbus supporter but platform considerations made it difficult to move forward. In the U.S. market the Minivan segment is largely dominated by car-based platform minivans, whereas building the Microbus in Hanover dictates using a truck platform. Indeed it will be interesting to see how Volkswagen manages to remove the truck-like character of the T5 commercial platform the Microbus will be built on along with the higher costs of building the vehicle in Hanover versus other locations. Volkswagen is shooting for a 2005 model year introduction of the Microbus and expects to sell approximately 100,000 units per year, largely in the U.S. market.
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