From autumn 1969, Volkswagen offers this unusual lodem, whose design evokes the Kübelwagen type 82 made during WWII. This 181 can be compared to the Citroën Mehari, but with steel bodywork. Based on the Beetle, it shares its platform and mechanicals with the Beetle, with a flat rear-mounted engine. Sold under the name 181 in Europe, it is renamed Thing in the USA or Trekker in the UK.