Unlocking the Past: A History of the Volkswagen Key
Photo Source: Volkswagen
It’s relatively simple to recognize a Volkswagen, even before the logo emerges. Take the Volkswagen Beetle, for instance. The prominent punch buggy is distinguishable anywhere in the world. Although the Beetle is no longer available, the German engineers refuse to disappoint. New vehicles like the ID.4 tackle the ingenuity of cars customers grew accustomed to and accelerate toward a cleaner, healthier future.
The Rise of the Car Key
With the evolution of every Volkswagen vehicle comes the development of the small essential that runs them: keys. So here’s a brief look at how Volkswagen transitioned from metal to mobile. Car keys were eminent long before Volkswagen. The standard metal key emerged well into the 20th century. However, a key that could turn on the ignition and start the car wasn’t introduced until the late 1940s.
The Volkswagen Key: An Original Style
Between the ’50s and ’70s, Volkswagen designed over 10 key profiles or blanks for its vehicles. Each key boasted a unique design and two-letter code correlated with a specific lock. The composition held firm until the keyless entry fob premiered in the late ’90s.
What Does “Fob” Mean?
Photo Source: Volkswagen
In German, fob translates to ‘fuppe,’ and ‘fuppe’ means pocket. The fob allowed owners to lock and unlock their cars through the emission of radio waves to a receiver located in the vehicle. As technology progressed, so did the fob, with more functionality and trunk access, alarm activation, and remote start.
Transformation of the Car Key
“From the lever and push-button start of early vehicles and the steering column lock on the early Beetles to the key fobs with a proximity feature and now mobile keys, the evolution of the car key has made it as convenient as can be for drivers.”
–Louis Fourie, Society of Automotive Historians, Former President
The Smart Key Era
In the 2000s, the fob matured to a smart key. The smart key didn’t need insertion, proving the push-button start is a hot commodity. Remote keyless entry is monumental but not absolute, and the new ID.4 remote keyless entry fob amplifies how far the Volkswagen key has come.
Beyond the Fob
We Connect ID allows owners to control the climate and observe several features such as the Volkswagen vehicle’s charge level. In addition, app-based car keys ensure the latest vehicles no longer need a key fob. That said, time holds still for no one and nothing, even the mobile key faces extinction with concept suggestions such as facial recognition as the new norm. So whatever the future brings, metal keys are a thing of the past.
Discover the Future of Keyless Technology at Sunrise Volkswagen!
The Volkswagen ID.4 represents the pinnacle of keyless convenience. With innovative features like app-based connectivity, remote access, and intuitive touch controls, the ID.4 seamlessly integrates into your digital lifestyle. Moreover, benefit from the Volkswagen Service Credit Card. This card empowers you with exclusive deals, flexible financing options, and a quick credit decision process. Maximize your automotive spending power and upgrade your driving experience today.