User:DriverLost

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Driver Lost
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A dis on Volkswagen that was created from Volkswagens Driver Wanted ad campaign.

In the VW scene, enthusiast are known as Driver Found

Volkswagen as a corporation, has never acknowledged their enthusiast, nor has there been much support at the dealership level. The struggle to organize a Volkswagen show, or related event, was left solely on individuals and local clubs hard work and efforts. In rare cases, a dealership will get involved to help support the events. But in several cases the event would be held on a Sunday, with the dealership locked up with no access to their facilities.

Back in 1999 VWAG (Volkswagen of Germany) along with VWOA (Volkswagen of America) launched a massive copyright infringement campaign, with its main target area the United States of America. Interesting when you consider China is the leading producer of unapproved Volkswagen merchandise.

The goal was to take back their full rights to the letters VW. The words: Volkswagen, Volkswagon, beetle, bug, bus, micro bus, when used pertaining to any vehicle. The shape, or anything vehicle related resembling the shape of a VW beetle, or bus. This not only included car clubs, web sites, repair shops, toys, pens, dish ware, stuffed animals, but also paintings or drawings. The use of these items, in the above mentioned areas, has never been an issue for them in the previous 60 years. The sudden attack was to pave the way for the launch of the new beetle, and in reality was to clear out the fun loving Volkswagen scene, and to pave the way for VW's new target market; BMW, Mercedes, even Audi itself.

This copyright infringement campaign targeted several enthusiast with small shops, clubs, web sites, even church crafting groups.

Thousands of dollars was demanded from these groups by certified letters in the mail followed by harassing phone calls. The business that attempted to take it to court, or did. Were drained of their assets over time in legal fees.

I was one of the enthusiast in Volkswagens path, but chose to stand my ground, and take it to court. The item. A hand painted beer stein created as an event raffle prize.

The first certified letter came for $5000.00 and follow up phone calls worked there way down to $2300.00, and suddenly stopped with no court appearance necessary.

But at that point the damage was done. The decision to continue to support not only a thankless company, but a hostile, all about profit company ended. This included the process of a new Volkswagen purchase, that was in the works with a local dealership.

I was responsible for countless friends, family members, even complete strangers, decision to purchase new Volkswagens. I also organized three large scale all Volkswagen car shows, including a three day all Volkswagen show on Chicago's Navy Pier.

I still own and drive several vintage Volkswagens, and still have several life time friends hanging on tight to the one way love with Volkswagen. But I no longer support events with dealership sponsors. (1 in 5 on average events) Just club organized, and after market supplier events.