What Does Volkswagen Mean?

Many shoppers come to us at Ide VW of East Rochester wondering “What does the German name “Volkswagen” mean in English?” The answer? “The people’s car”. Volks translates to “folk”, AKA “people”. “Wagen” translates to “cart”, “wagon”, or “car”.

Volkswagen Company History

One cannot in good conscience discuss what Volkswagen means without also discussing its origins — and this is something that Volkswagen as a company is keenly aware of. As for the history of the company, and where the name comes from, Volkswagen was a state-owned car company operated by the German Labor Front under a program piloted by none other than Adolf Hitler.

While this has been common knowledge for some time, you may still be surprised to hear it. You may also be surprised to hear that Volkswagen has, over the years, made attempts at reparations. A U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum Volkswagen info page says this: “An example of its transparency is the presence on its website of a candid catalog from the Volkswagen’s museum exhibit on its behavior during the Third Reich.”

In taking responsibility for past mistakes, Volkswagen, as a company, attempts to drive innovation, inclusion, and accountability for everyone. We here at Ide VW of East Rochester find that, if not admirable, at the very least defensible.

About Ide VW of East Rochester

As for us here at Ide VW of East Rochester, our dealership is a proud part of the greater Rochester community. We strive to help all people in our community with their automotive needs, and our results speak for themselves!

Learn More With Ide VW of East Rochester

Curious to hear more about how Volkswagen is working to promote a better world, now and in the future? Head to Volkswagen’s “Culture and CSR” page. Otherwise, if you have any additional questions about the Volkswagen brand or current models for sale, be sure to check out our Volkswagen research page.