VW to Halt Beetle Production in 2019

Volkswagen AG says it will stop building the iconic Beetle next July after more than 70 years.

The car is currently produced as a coupe and convertible at VW’s giant assembly complex in Puebla, Mexico. The company says the final production year will feature “Final Edition” versions of both models in beige or light blue (pictured).

There are no immediate plans to replace the Beetle. But Hinrich Woebcken, CEO of VW of America, adds, “Never say never.” In the meantime, he notes that the company plans to debut a modern version of the VW minibus in 2022 as the all-electric I.D. Buzz.

VW launched the air-cooled Beetle in 1946. By 1972 it had outsold the Ford Model T to become the best-selling car ever. It relinquished that title in 2002 to its mechanical successor, the VW Golf hatchback.

VW has sold more than 21 million Beetles worldwide. Sales of the coupe ended in Europe last year.