Concept of the Week

VW christens an unlikely but whimsical yacht-inspired van concept

Volkswagen Caddy Topos Sail Design concept

Stuart Schwartzapfel

Volkswagen (VOWG) displayed a nautical-themed vehicle concept at Europe's largest recreational vehicle show, in Düsseldorf, on Aug. 27. Based on the Caddy MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), the smallest VW in the company's commercial vehicle van lineup, the Caddy Topos Sail Design Concept adopts styling cues from classic yachts such as a roof covered with wooden decking surrounded by aluminum roof rails. This flight of design fancy would allow passengers who want to catch some sun to climb up matching wooden and aluminum steps in the tailgate to the roof deck. The adjustable roof panels can flip up to act as back rests.

The Verdict: Tanning on a car? Tempting but unlikely.

Stuart Schwartzapfel is a regular contributor to BusinessWeek.com. He has studied the automotive marketplace and works as an advertising and marketing strategist for major manufacturers. He does not write about any car brands for which he currently works.

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