Nostalgic
Volkswagen T2 Bay Window Single Cab Pickup
As a leading specialist in Loft Conversions, Charles Grosvenor enjoy a reputation second to none. Over 50 years ago, Bob Annis started his loft conversion business using his first commercial vehicle, a VW T2 Bay Window Single Cab PickUp in ‘Dove’ blue
It started over 50 years ago
with the 1st Charles Grosvenor VW PickUp
As the time went on, the business grew, got busier and faster. The poor old Volkswagen Single Cab, wasn’t quite big or fast enough and got forgotten about. It was sold on, as the business moved on.
After a couple of conversations and a little reminiscing, feeling a little nostalgic our Director, Bob Annis went on the search for his old Volkswagen. Not quite the same one, but near enough, just 6 months older, he found one! and what a beautiful truck it is too!
Welcome to Charles Grosvenor ‘ ‘ oh no, we don’t have a name yet. We shall have to think about this and let you know.
There is a bit of work to be done on the old Volkswagen, but we will keep you updated on it’s journey along the way.
We have a name
meet 'charlie'
He may look a little beaten up and naked but once Charlie has been totally restored, he will be back to his former glory.
Restoring a classic Volkswagen’s bare metal bodywork can be a rewarding yet intricate process, demanding both patience and precision.
The initial step involves stripping down the vehicle to its bare metal, a meticulous task that may require sandblasting or chemical stripping to remove layers of paint and rust, as per the image opposite.
Once the metal is exposed, it’s crucial to assess the integrity of the panels, identifying areas that may need repair or replacement due to corrosion or damage. This stage often involves welding and fabricating new metal patches to preserve the classic lines and structure of the vehicle.
After ensuring the body is sound, the surface must be meticulously smoothed and prepared for primer and paint, which protects the metal and restores the vehicle’s original aesthetic.
Throughout this process, attention to detail is paramount, as the quality of the bodywork lays the foundation for a successful restoration and a beautifully finished ‘Charlie’.
update - March 2026
Progress on the Classic VW Pickup
Our classic Volkswagen Type 2 Bay Window restoration is moving forward.
Since ‘Charlie’ the pickup first arrived at Charles Grosvenor, the bodywork and paintwork have now been completed. The vehicle has been finished in its original genuine pale blue colour, bringing the classic Volkswagen back to life and already looking fantastic.
The pickup is not yet roadworthy, but the next stage of the project will focus on the mechanical work needed to get it running and back on the road.
Here are a couple of photos showing the newly completed paintwork.
Future Updates
on 'charlie' the Pickup
We will continue to share updates as we progress with the restoration of this beautiful iconic classic Volkswagen.
