Ballsbridge Beetle Air-cooled Event
A Celebration of Timeless Classics!
On Sunday, July 27th, we welcomed classic car enthusiasts from across the country to our headquarters in Liffey Valley for a truly special occasion—The Air-cooled Beetle Event, celebrating the return of the iconic Ballsbridge Beetle, hosted alongside Beetle.ie
This exclusive gathering brought together a vibrant collection of classic air-cooled Volkswagens, with the legendary 1950 bug, known as “The Ballsbridge Beetle”, taking centre stage.
People arrived from the length and breath of Ireland with their air-cooled Volkswagen beetles, making it an unforgettable day. Attendees enjoyed a nostalgic afternoon filled with vintage charm, and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. A true testament to the Irish automotive industry!
Take a glimpse of the highlights!
Gallery
More About The Iconic Beetle
Beetle or Turtle?
The name "Beetle" was inspired by the car's distinct, rounded shape, which resembled the body of the insect. Although officially referred to as the "Type 1" by Volkswagen, the "Beetle" and the "Bug" were nicknames that stuck and eventually became universal. Other countries adopted their own versions of the name, such as "Coccinelle" (Ladybug) in France, "Kodok" (Frog) in Indonesia, and "Kaplumbağa" (Turtle) in Turkey. The playful nickname complemented the car’s quirky personality, turning the Beetle into a cultural icon that represented fun, freedom, and utility.
History of the Beetle
In 1945 the first Volkswagen "Type 1" Beetle rolled off the production line. The Beetle was important for the development of democracy and mobility in post-war Germany, and subsequently found a home in many other countries across the globe. Production at the Beetle's last manufacturing location in Puebla, Mexico, was discontinued at the end of July 2003. With over 21 million vehicles built, the Beetle had become an automotive icon, loved by many millions of people. Its characteristic shape is recognised everywhere.
