Fact Check: Are VW Beetles still made?

Are VW Beetles Still Made?

The claim in question is whether Volkswagen Beetles are still being produced. This inquiry arises from the iconic status of the Beetle, which has a long history and has undergone various iterations since its inception. The question is particularly relevant given the recent history of the model, including announcements regarding its production status.

What We Know

End of Production Announcement: Volkswagen officially announced the end of production for the Beetle in September 2018. The company stated that two special editions, known as the "Final Edition," would commemorate the end of the model's production run, which had lasted for approximately 80 years 3 6.
Historical Context: The Volkswagen Beetle has a storied history, with its production spanning over 65 years and totaling more than 21.5 million units, making it one of the best-selling cars of all time 2 4. The original Beetle model ceased production in 2003, while the "New Beetle," which was a modern reinterpretation, was produced until 2010 4.
Recent Claims of Production: A source from July 2023 claims that the Volkswagen Beetle is still being produced in Mexico, suggesting that it remains a viable option for consumers seeking a modern take on the classic design 9. However, this assertion is not corroborated by other reliable sources.
Future of the Beetle: There have been discussions about a potential electric version of the Beetle, referred to as the "E-Beetle," but as of now, no concrete plans have been confirmed for its production 7 5.

Analysis

The reliability of the sources varies, and it is essential to critically evaluate them:

Wikipedia Articles: While Wikipedia can provide a general overview, it is not always a reliable source for definitive claims, as its content can be edited by anyone. However, the information regarding the end of production is consistent with multiple credible sources 1 2.
Autocar and Motor1: Both of these automotive news outlets reported on the official end of production in 2018. Autocar is known for its industry insights, while Motor1 has a focus on automotive news and reviews. Both sources are generally considered reliable within the automotive journalism community 3 5.
Auto Zonic: The claim that the Beetle is still being produced in Mexico lacks corroboration from more authoritative sources and seems to be an outlier. This raises questions about its reliability, as it may be based on misunderstandings or outdated information 9.
Volkswagen's Official Statements: The company's announcements regarding the end of production and plans for future models are primary sources that hold significant weight. However, the absence of a confirmed electric Beetle model suggests that any ongoing production claims should be treated with skepticism until verified by the manufacturer.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that Volkswagen Beetles are still being produced is false. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes Volkswagen's official announcement in September 2018 regarding the end of Beetle production, which was confirmed by multiple reliable automotive news sources. The assertion that Beetles are still being manufactured in Mexico lacks corroboration from authoritative sources and appears to be based on misinformation.

It is important to note that while there have been discussions about a potential electric version of the Beetle, known as the "E-Beetle," no concrete plans for its production have been confirmed as of now. This uncertainty highlights the evolving nature of automotive production and consumer interest.

However, the evidence available is not exhaustive, and the automotive industry can be subject to rapid changes. Therefore, while the current consensus is that Beetle production has ceased, readers should remain aware of the potential for new developments and critically evaluate information as it arises.

Sources

Volkswagen Beetle (A5) - Wikipedia. Link
Volkswagen Beetle - Wikipedia. Link
Volkswagen to end production of the Beetle next year - Autocar. Link
How Many Volkswagen Beetles Were Produced Worldwide? - Blog Entomologist. Link
Volkswagen Says The Beetle Is Not Coming Back - Motor1.com. Link
Saying Goodbye to Beetle: Why We Loved the Beetle Final Edition - Volkswagen. Link
New Volkswagen E-Beetle Trademark Hints At The Return of an All-Electric Beetle - Southern Volkswagen Greenbrier. Link
Production - VW Annual Report 2023. Link
Are VW Bugs Still Made In Mexico? - Auto Zonic. Link
Remembering The Volkswagen Beetle As VW Ends Production (Again) - Design News. Link