By Volkswagen has recently unveiled a unique creation: the Volkswagen Virtus convertible, specifically developed for the visit of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to the Volkswagen factory in Sao Bernardo do Campo (SP). This one-of-a-kind prototype, showcased during the president’s visit, marks a special addition to Volkswagen’s legacy of customized vehicles for presidential visits. The Virtus convertible, although not featuring images with its roof in place, showcases distinctive alterations beyond its convertible design.
Notably, it sheds its B and C pillars, enhancing its open-top aesthetic. Moreover, Volkswagen’s Brazilian team extended the car’s wheelbase to provide a more spacious rear compartment, albeit requiring adjustments such as resizing the fuel tank. Additionally, the vehicle underwent body reinforcement post-roof removal, ensuring structural integrity and safety. A unique feature of this quirky Virtus convertible is the installation of a transversal bar between the front and rear seats, enabling passengers in the rear to hold onto it while standing—a nod to both functionality and novelty.
This isn’t the first time Volkswagen Brazil has tailored a vehicle for presidential visits. The Virtus joins the ranks of modified vehicles such as the Fusca/Beetle (1959, 1993), Polo Sedan (2003), and Fox (2005). During the president’s tour of the plant, he experienced the converted sedan firsthand, riding in the back of the open-top creation. Now, the car finds its place among historic vehicles, housed in a museum within the factory premises, commemorating the visit and the unique collaboration between Volkswagen and Brazil’s political leadership. Notably, in India, the brand showcased a special project based on the Rapid convertible, developed as a student project in 2023, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and customization across diverse markets.
