Is Volkswagen Really Making a Beetle Pickup Truck?
The iconic Volkswagen Beetle, a vehicle that charmed the world with its distinctive, rounded silhouette, ended its production run in 2019. However, recently surfacing online are videos depicting a new Beetle pickup truck, sparking excitement among automotive enthusiasts. But is this a genuine announcement from Volkswagen? Unfortunately, the answer is no; it’s simply another instance of misleading, AI-generated content.
These videos typically feature the characteristic “bug” front end combined with a pickup bed. But before you get too excited, know that the automaker has no active plans for such a vehicle.
The Reality: No Official Beetle Pickup
Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer has stated that they are not considering bringing back the Beetle, let alone a pickup truck variation. This makes the claims of a new Beetle pickup even more unlikely.
Options for Beetle Truck Enthusiasts
While there’s no official Beetle pickup on the horizon, fans still have options. One route is to seek an aftermarket kit designed to transform existing Beetles into a “Ute” configuration.
Several companies sell these kits. Smythkitcars.com, for example, offers kits starting around $3,000. The retailer also provides manuals and instructional videos to help with the conversion, and offers to build a Ute for you.
The Rise of AI-Generated Car Videos
Artificial intelligence is advancing at incredible speeds, and with advancements in technology an unfortunate byproduct has been the creation of fake imagery used to generate interest. These videos often prey on nostalgia, using classic car models that have been discontinued to garner attention and clicks. The promise of exciting news can trigger dopamine pathways in the brain, making viewers eager for a big reveal.
How to Spot AI-Generated Automotive Clickbait
As AI image technology becomes more sophisticated, it’s getting increasingly difficult to discern what is real and what isn’t. Here are a few ways to identify a fake picture:
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Lack of Complexity: AI-generated images often lack the intricate details found in real photographs.
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Exaggerated Color Palette: AI-generated pictures may have oversaturated colors that don’t look natural.
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Aggressive Lighting and Reflections: AI-generated images may contain over-the-top lighting effects or unrealistic mirror-like reflections.
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Examine Details: Check exterior badging and interior details like the dashboard. AI-generated images often make mistakes.
By following these steps, you can avoid falling for clickbait and stay informed about the latest developments from real automotive manufacturers.
