Bummer, man! VW won't build retro "Bulli" microbus

Volkswagen is again backing away from building a retro-styled successor to the classic VW bus that was an icon of the 1960s and 1970s, leaving the only van in its lineup to be the Chrysler-based and Chrysler-built Routan minivan.

Enthusiasts were psyched about the retro-styled Bulli (the German nickname for the old VW bus) that was unveiled as a concept at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show and made the rounds of international shows. And they were even more excited when the automaker hinted at production plans for Europe and the U.S.

Nevermind.

Volkswagen confirmed to Cars.com that it has shelved plans to build and sell the funky Bulli van, though it may try a new design.

"Feedback from various markets showed that the concept footprint was too small," says spokesman Corey Proffitt. "Thus, the design and engineering teams are working on a redesign that could potentially fit specific market needs, such as a larger platform/footprint."

The little six-passenger van concept was shown with an electric powertrain and some neat features like iPad-based multimedia controls and a huge panoramic roof.

And its Bulli throwback styling and two-tone paint job also won hearts.

This is the second time VW has teased us with a concept van -- the Bulli followed 2001's Microbus concept.

-- Cars.com Kicking Tires