Who hasn’t seen them? Photos of camouflaged cars zipping through German cities and autobahns. These are “Erlkönige,” disguised prototypes of new vehicle models being tested by Volkswagen and other manufacturers before their official unveiling.
What Exactly is a Volkswagen Erlkönig?
The term “Erlkönig,” borrowed from Goethe’s ballad of the same name, evokes mystery and secrecy. In the automotive world, it refers to pre-production vehicles undergoing rigorous testing before entering series production. Volkswagen, one of Germany’s largest automakers, utilizes this testing phase extensively to ensure the quality and performance of its vehicles.
Erlkönige are heavily camouflaged to conceal design and technical innovations from prying eyes. Taped-up windows, plastic add-ons, and swirling patterns prevent competitors from getting an early glimpse of new models.
Camouflaged VW prototype during a test drive
The Importance of Erlkönig Testing
For Volkswagen and other manufacturers, Erlkönigs are crucial to vehicle development. They provide valuable data on everyday usability, reliability, and performance. During testing, vehicles are subjected to extreme conditions to identify and rectify weaknesses, ensuring any issues are resolved before market launch.
But manufacturers aren’t the only ones who benefit. Car enthusiasts and industry experts find these camouflaged prototypes fascinating, offering a sneak peek at future models and fueling speculation about design, engines, and technological innovations.
Where to Spot an Erlkönig
Erlkönige are tested wherever production models will eventually be driven: public roads, autobahns, racetracks, and testing grounds. They’re frequently spotted near Wolfsburg, Volkswagen’s headquarters, and in northern Germany, where winter testing occurs on closed tracks.
VW ID. Buzz prototype undergoing testing at the Nürburgring
What Erlkönigs Reveal About Volkswagen’s Future
Erlkönig sightings provide insights into Volkswagen’s strategic direction. The recent increase in camouflaged electric vehicles and SUVs highlights the shift towards alternative powertrains and larger vehicle types. New infotainment systems, driver assistance systems, and connectivity solutions are also being tested on these prototypes.
Observing and analyzing Erlkönigs offers more than just a thrilling pastime for car enthusiasts; it provides valuable clues about future trends in the automotive industry.
