The Kombi Train: From the Roads to the Rails

Imagine a 1955 Volkswagen Kombi, but with an unexpected twist: it does not travel on roads, but on rails. This extremely rare vehicle, known as VW T1 Klv-20, was converted into a self-propelled rail vehicle, combining the versatility of the Bulli with the convenience of rail transport. In this article, you will explore this fascinating transformation and understand why it has become a true relic of automotive and railway history.

The Volkswagen Kombi Revolution on Rails

When the VW Kombi (model T1) went into production in 1950, it redefined the concept of utility vehicles. The minibus, affectionately called Bulli, was promoted as a multi-purpose machine, offering a simple design, a spacious interior and rear-wheel drive. The model quickly became the ideal companion for travel, cargo transport and even for those seeking freedom on the road.

With an affordable and versatile construction, the Bulli offered endless possibilities for customization. For more than seven decades, it was used as a family car, cargo vehicle and even as a motorhome. But few know that it was also adapted for a very specific use: as a railway vehicle.

The Conversion to Rails

In 1955, the Bulli was transformed into something completely unusual: a rail bus. Called the Klv-20 (an abbreviation for “small car with combustion engine” in German), it was designed to meet the needs of the Deutsche Bundesbahn (German Federal Railways).

The company needed compact and efficient vehicles to perform maintenance work on tracks and signaling. Instead of designing something completely new, the solution was to adapt the reliable Volkswagen Kombi to operate on rails.

Production and Development of Klv-20

A Deutsche Bundesbahn ordered 30 units of the Klv-20, which were built by two manufacturers: Martin Beilhack It is Waggon & Maschinenbau GmbH. Each company produced 15 units over the course of a year.

The T1 vans were equipped with a 28 horsepower Volkswagen engine, as well as a chassis and wheels specifically designed for rails. Some modifications were necessary, such as the absence of a steering wheel and rear-view mirrors, as well as a hydraulic mechanism that allowed the vehicle to be manually rotated 180 degrees, eliminating the need to drive in reverse.

Externally, the design was adapted to meet railway standards. Headlights and brake lights were repositioned, and new lights were installed at the top of the split windscreen, creating a unique appearance.

Use and Decline

You Klv-20 They were primarily used for track inspection and maintenance. With a top speed of 70 km/h, they could travel quickly between work points. However, as new vehicles were introduced and operational demands changed, the KLV-20s were retired in the 1970s.

Of the 30 vehicles produced, only a handful survived, becoming extremely valuable collector's pieces.

A Rare and Restored Piece

One of the few surviving Klv-20s was recently restored by the department Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimer (VWNO), specialized in the conservation of historic vehicles of the brand.

The restored model, number 20-5011, was originally used in railway services in Bavaria and later in south-west Germany. After being retired, it was acquired by a collector in 1988 and eventually entered the collection of the VWNO in Hannover.

The restoration was meticulous, bringing back the glory of this unique vehicle. In 2025, it was exhibited during the International VW Bus Day, delighting enthusiasts and collectors.

Technical specifications

According to an original brochure, the Klv-20 had the following specifications:

• Length: 4,100 mm
• Width: 1,750 mm
• Motor: Four-stroke petrol boxer
• Power: 28 horses
• Streaming: 4-speed manual
• Maximum speed: 70 km/h
• Wheels: Made of steel with a diameter of 550 mm

The interior was simple, with three upholstered benches: one in the driver's cabin and two in the passenger compartment, which could be removed for cargo transportation.

The First Trip After the Kombi Restoration

The VWNO team took the restored Klv-20 for a test drive on a picturesque railway line in Germany. The experience was described as thrilling, especially when crossing a 24-meter-high viaduct.

Historical and Sentimental Value

Nowadays, a vehicle as rare as the Klv-20 would have an estimated value between R$ 1.5 million and R$ 2 million, depending on the state of conservation and associated history. More than its price, however, the Klv-20 symbolizes the creativity and adaptability that marked the golden age of automotive and railway engineering.

If you are passionate about historic vehicles, the Klv-20 is a reminder that even the simplest designs can be transformed into extraordinary solutions.