In April 1947, not long after the first Type 1 Beetles arrived in his home country, Dutch-market Volkswagen importer Ben Pon suggested a basic utility van to the automaker’s engineers. The Germans liked the idea. As soon as they could, they built a prototype that shared much of its running gear, though not its chassis, with the Type 1. Initially conceived as a utilitarian delivery van well-suited to tight European streets thanks to narrow dimensions and a short turning circle, it debuted for the 1950 model year. A passenger version was offered shortly thereafter, and a truck joined the model lineup in 1952.

So successful was the Type 2 that Volkswagen in 1956 built a dedicated Transporter production facility in Hanover, Germany. Assembly in Hanover continued into 1967 for European and North American markets. The Type 2 continuously evolved with various body and powertrain upgrades that made it more functional. The first-generation Type 2, with the iconic split-windshield, was produced from 1950 through 1967.

This 1963 Volkswagen Type 2 Delivery Van was completed on 10 April 1963. It left the factory finished in Dove Blue (L31) over a Grey leatherette (80) interior, powered by a 1.5-liter flat-four-cylinder engine backed by a four-speed manual gearbox. It was originally built as a panel van, model 211, with solid right-side cargo doors. Upon completion it was shipped to the United States and delivered to Chicago on 17 April 1963.

Today, this charming Volkswagen Delivery Van is finished in a striking tri-tone combination of white, orange, and gray. Refurbished by a previous owner in 2013, the van underwent a complete body strip and refinish, complemented by freshly painted white bumpers. It rides on 15-inch EMPI-style wheels wrapped in staggered tires (slightly larger in the rear), with braking upgraded via Wilwood front discs and classic rear drums. A Wagenswest four-inch narrowed front beam was installed, allowing for the different wheel sizes and the front disc brake conversion. A straight rear swing-axle conversion tastefully lowers the van while providing easier maintenance and improved gearing for modern highway speeds.

Mechanical and electrical updates include a replacement 1.6-liter flat-four engine backed by a four-speed manual gearbox, alongside a 12-volt electrical system upgrade. Inside, the red vinyl interior features a split front bench, a folding rear bench, and matching door panels; its side cargo doors, which would have originally been solid, now have windows for improved usability. Modern comforts include a RetroSound Bluetooth stereo, as well as tasteful wood flooring in the rear cabin.

Primarily used for commercial purposes in period, presentable, surviving Type 2 Delivery Vans are a rare occurrence today. This example, having been stylishly refinished and tastefully upgraded, perfectly balances classic vintage charm with modern convenience.