The Track Opening Parade at the Goodwood Revival is always an opportunity to celebrate something a little bit different, perhaps of a niche that isn’t normally afforded much in the way of limelight. In previous years we’ve seen classic motorcycles and Meyers’ Manx beach buggies, and the ante is upped once again in 2025 as the Motor Circuit prepares to host a sprawling collection of Volkswagen Type 2 Split Screens, otherwise known as VW Campers.
Originally introduced by Volkswagen in 1950, the Type 2 Camper became an icon of celebrity lifestyle through the 1960s with all manner of A-list owners and appearances on albums by the likes of Bob Dylan and the Beach Boys. The VW Camper’s popularity peaked in 1969 when it became a headline feature of Woodstock, and its use was as the whim of creative minds all over the world, with examples not limited to VW Type 2 based ice cream vans, ambulances, hearses, police vans and fire engines.
Latterly designated as the Type 2 T1, it remained in production for almost 20 years before being replaced the T2 in 1967. Early models were powered by the air-cooled 1100 boxer engine also found in the VW Beetle, producing just 30PS (22kW). Over time that output was increased to 41PS (30kW) and then 52PS (38kW) for 1.5-litre-engined Transporter variants.
Some 75 years later, the original VW Camper remains one of the most recognisable vehicles on the planet, which represents freedom, adventure and peace.
The parade at the 2025 Revival is set to bring together the largest gathering of Type 2 Split Screens ever assembled, as the Motor Circuit is flooded with what’s expected to be the most colourful parade of vehicles ever seen at Goodwood. It’ll open the action on track in the brightest possible way across all three days, which we hope will kindle plenty of fond memories for spectators.
Looking ahead to the Revival, the Duke of Richmond said: “The Goodwood Revival celebrates extraordinary historic vehicles. Whether it’s the Cobras and E-types of the Royal Automobile Club TT Celebration, or in this case the Volkswagen Type 2 Split Screen, there’s something incredibly special about seeing these vehicles in action.
“For 75 years, the VW Type 2 has been a part of daily life – from service vehicles, to delivery vans, and family holidays, with a number even enjoying a new lease of life as food trucks. We will be celebrating this variety by bringing together the most complete collection of VW Type 2s which will make for a joyous opening to the Revival.”
The Goodwood Revival gets underway on 12th-14th September 2025, and we’re already preparing for a thrilling three days of motorsport with thirteen races scheduled, all once again running exclusively on sustainable fuels.
Tickets for the Goodwood Revival are now available and you can save up to 10% when you buy before 1st May 2025 with early bird pricing.
Want to get involved in the on-track parade? If you have a split screen VW Type 2, please register your interest by completing the submission form here, and the team will review your vehicle for consideration.
Classic VW’s will be front and centre in the Tax Exempt Classic Car parking – reserve your space here.
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