When Volkswagen burst upon the American automobile scene in the 1960s, it established a reputation for both economy and reliability. Few who drove the original sixties' "Love Bug" knew that the vehicle was the creation of Adolf Hitler in the days of the Third Reich. Originally intended as a symbol of prewar prosperity, the Volkswagen, or "people's car," eventually became a key element in the Nazi war machine. With the outbreak of World War II, the production of the Volkswagen car was adapted for military use, and the Kubelwagen, German "jeep," was designed and manufactured throughout Germany. A special amphibious version, the "Schwimmwagen," was later developed and spearheaded many major German offensives.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

The people's car takes shape -- The Kübelwagen -- The Schwimmwagen -- A new Volkswagen emerges from the ruins.