Volkswagen Type 2 Kombi/Camper (Split-screen) (1949 - 1968)

Ben Pon came up with Transporter design sketches, inspired by forward control Beetle-based trucks at Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg factory.

Type 2 shown, powered by the 1131cc flat-four developing 25bhp.

Type 2 panel van goes on sale, quickly followed by the Kombi.

The Type 2 Volkswagen Samba bus is launched, but is otherwise known as the Microbus DeLuxe.

Engine capacity increased to 1192cc; power rises to 30bhp. Right-hand-drive vans now offered in the UK.

Power increased to 34bhp and all-synchromesh gearbox fitted, improving the driving experience.

High-roof panel van added to the range, and the millionth Transporter leaves the factory.

The 1497cc power unit now available at extra cost: it developed 42bhp, increasing to 44bhp in 1965.

Heavy Type 2 users welcome the arrival of 12-volt electrics to replace the original six-volt system.

All-new styling for the Type 2, with the split-screen with single-piece ‘bay window’. Much-needed 1584cc flat-four engine now fitted, now developing 47bhp.