Volkswagen’s all-electric ID Buzz electric van has been making waves since its presentation in March, and now the company is reminding us of the original Volkswagen Bus that started it all back in 1949. While the production of the Bus ceased in the US in the late 1970s due to emission and safety concerns, it continued to be produced in Brazil until 2014. Despite its discontinuation, the Volkswagen Bus remains a beloved icon among enthusiasts, often inspiring highly customized creations such as the Mad Max-inspired version we’re about to discuss.
The versatility of the VW Bus has allowed it to transcend various aspects of pop culture. For example, it is strongly associated with the legendary Woodstock festival of 1969. More recently, the Bus has become a crowd favorite at Burning Man, where it takes on diverse and imaginative customizations to suit the desert setting. The example we’re currently exploring takes us to Brazil.
Brazil has always been a paradise for the Volkswagen Bus, with countless bespoke models roaming its streets. However, the owner of this particular Bus, whose Instagram handle you can find below, has ensured that his VW stands out from the crowd. And it’s not just because the customizations on this vehicle are visually captivating enough to lose track of time.
This Bus means business. Despite its cute face and minimalist design, the owner has transformed it into a machine that would fit right into the Mad Max series. Just imagine being the car casting specialist for the post-apocalyptic world of Mad Max—wouldn’t the Bus now rank high on your list? This unique example might just influence your answer.
We can’t help but fantasize about this Bus meeting the real-life Cyberpunk 2077 Quadra V-Tech we discussed yesterday. The combination of these two eccentric vehicles would be an unforgettable sight.
Some might find certain details on this Bus unnecessary, like the triple-six badging between the headlights. However, in The Wasteland—the name of the upcoming Mad Max: Fury Road sequel that series creator George Miller is working on—such details are entirely fitting. So, embrace the intentional pun and let your imagination run wild in this post-apocalyptic realm.
The Mad Max Volkswagen Bus is a testament to the enduring appeal of the iconic VW Bus and its ability to adapt to various cultural phenomena. Whether it’s the free-spirited vibe of Woodstock or the dystopian world of Mad Max, the Volkswagen Bus continues to captivate hearts and inspire creativity.