The CEO of Volkswagen, Thomas Schäfer, has made it clear that there will be no revival of the Beetle in the electric age. In an interview with Autocar, Schäfer explained that while some of the brand’s nameplates will continue to be important, it is crucial to focus on the future rather than the past.

Recently, there has been much speculation about the future of Volkswagen’s longest-running nameplates. Schäfer had previously indicated that the Golf and GTI would likely continue in an all-electric lineup. Now, he has suggested that other iconic names are expected to make the transition from combustion to electric power.

Speaking to Autocar during a pre-production test drive for the upcoming third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan, Schäfer emphasized the value of current model names. He questioned why Volkswagen would discard names that have been successful and highly invested in, such as the Golf and Tiguan.

When discussing the criteria for an electric revival of a nameplate, Schäfer highlighted the global significance of the model. He stated that there are only a few truly iconic and globally recognized Volkswagen names, like the Golf and Tiguan. Names such as Scirocco and Arteon are unlikely to be revived. This naming philosophy is currently being finalized by the company.

As for the Volkswagen Beetle, Schäfer ruled out its return based on this strict criteria. He explained that certain vehicles, like the Beetle and the Scirocco, have had their time and it wouldn’t make sense to bring them back. Schäfer emphasized the need to invest in the best possible places, considering the costs associated with balancing different technologies.