This VW Helicopter Aims for Airbus-Level Aspirations But Lacks Flight Authorization | Carscoops

      Who would have imagined that the classic camper could appear so stylish perched on landing skids?

      19 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      A vintage VW T1 and an Airbus H125 helicopter provided the foundation for a one-of-a-kind project.

      This unique creation comes from Chuck Jurgen Teschke, who specializes in aircraft maintenance.

      While it won’t be able to take to the skies, it will function as an art piece and a conversation starter.

      There’s no shortage of extraordinary backyard projects globally, but few combine the charm of vintage automobiles with the eccentricity of aircraft quite like this. The Volkswagen T1 is undoubtedly the most iconic van ever, marking the beginning of a lineage that now includes the Transporter, the Multivan, and today's electric ID. Buzz.

      Although most of the existing examples are being carefully restored into campervans, one American builder opted for a different approach, transforming a classic VW Bus into a helicopter-shaped piece of art.

      This highly specialized creation originates from Chuck Jurgen Teschke in Alberta, Canada, who boasts 38 years of experience in aircraft maintenance. Unfortunately, despite any whimsical hopes, this creation does not fly. It exists as a static installation, designed solely to enhance the owner's backyard, though you might be mistaken for thinking otherwise at first sight.

      Its grounded nature doesn’t diminish its role as a great conversation piece. As showcased on Chuck's Instagram, the project initiated with a heavily modified design of an Airbus H125 light utility helicopter. After that was established, he found a scrapped donor aircraft and a battered split-window VW Bus T1. Neither was in ideal condition, which made them even more suitable for this delightfully quirky combination.

      The donor van underwent significant modifications to ensure its bodywork seamlessly blended with the helicopter’s rear fuselage. The original headlight openings were enlarged for better visibility, and additional windows were incorporated into the roof, preserving the open, airy essence of the classic VW design.

      Chuck Jurgen Teschke / Instagram

      While the classic VW Bus may have sacrificed its sliding doors, there's still ample space inside the cabin for any unique purpose its owner envisions. The front bumper was painted white to align with the helicopter’s landing skids, unifying the overall appearance. To complete the look, it received a striking two-tone paint job with red pinstripes, embracing the vintage aesthetic with just the right touch of flair.

      The only remaining task is to attach the rotor blades, which will need to wait until the entire assembly can be rolled out of the garage. With the engine hump and rear fin still preserved, the build convincingly resembles a genuine aircraft, enough to mislead many online.

      Chuck's comment section is filled with inquiries about whether it actually flies. Unfortunately, the answer is no. Due to safety regulations and the laws of physics, this hybrid was never designed to take off.

      Interestingly, this VW Bus concoction is the fourth installment in Chuck’s ongoing "Frankencopter" series. One of his previous creations merged the front cabin of a tractor with the fuselage and elements of a real helicopter, resulting in what could be termed the most overqualified piece of yard art in agricultural history.