Volkswagen has once again surprised the automotive world, this time with a unique convertible sedan. Following the unconventional T-Roc convertible crossover, Volkswagen Brazil unveiled an open-air Virtus sedan, a bespoke creation crafted by 30 engineers in just six weeks. For those unfamiliar, the Virtus is essentially the sedan version of the Volkswagen Polo supermini, making this convertible even more unexpected.
This one-of-a-kind Volkswagen Virtus convertible was specifically designed for Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s visit to VW’s São Bernardo do Campo factory in São Paulo. It appears to be a true convertible, although images showcase the car without its roof, suggesting a focus on the open-top experience. Beyond the removal of the B and C pillars, the Virtus convertible incorporates several modifications to enhance its unique character and functionality.
Volkswagen Brazil’s engineering team reimagined the Virtus’s body to provide a more spacious rear passenger area. This adjustment led to a necessary resizing of the fuel tank. Furthermore, structural integrity was paramount, resulting in body reinforcement and the installation of a transversal bar between the front and rear seats. This bar serves as a practical grab handle for rear occupants, particularly when the vehicle is in motion.
The Virtus convertible continues a tradition of Volkswagen Brazil creating special vehicles for presidential visits. This quirky open-top sedan is the fifth such vehicle, joining the ranks of modified classics like the Fusca/Beetle (1959, 1993), Polo Sedan (2003), and Fox (2005). President Lula da Silva himself toured the São Bernardo do Campo plant while riding in the back of this distinctive sedan-turned-convertible. Now, this automotive piece of history will be preserved in the factory’s museum of historic vehicles.
Interestingly, Volkswagen is not alone in creating unique convertibles for specific purposes. Toyota recently unveiled a Century Convertible SUV, a one-off model intended as a parade vehicle for the Japan Sumo Association. While not for presidential use, it demonstrates a similar approach to creating bespoke open-top vehicles.
This 2024 Vw Convertible Virtus is a testament to Volkswagen’s innovative spirit and ability to create unique vehicles for special occasions. While not intended for mass production, it serves as a memorable example of automotive ingenuity and a noteworthy addition to Volkswagen’s history.
