During the World War II, Germany developed the Kübelwagen, a military vehicle based on the robust chassis and engine of the beetle.
Decades later, Volkswagen launched the Type 181, or “Thing,” initially designed for military use but which won over civilians, especially in the United States.
In Brazil, inspiration came from a specific need: the Brazilian Army was looking for a 4×4 vehicle for challenging terrain, capable of transporting up to four people and towing 500 kg.
It was in this context that the VW VEMP, an attempt by Volkswagen to gain a share in the military segment.
The model 4×4 It was equipped with standard rear-wheel drive and in-wheel reduction gears.
When necessary, the front wheel drive could be engaged manually by an additional lever.
The configuration promised good performance on rough terrain, but Volkswagen was unable to outbid its competitors in the military tender.
Now in 2025, with so many technological innovations, it is impressive to look back and realize how projects like the VW VEMP paved the way for the advances we have today.
Even though it never got off the ground, Volkswagen's military jeep left its mark and deserves to be remembered as one of the icons of Brazilian automotive innovation.