Kurierwagen Typ 181 „Bluelight Version“

The Type 181 used a modified Karmann Ghia floorpan and proven Volkswagen Beetle technology. Its rear-mounted, air-cooled boxer engine initially produced 44 hp from 1.5 litres and, from 1973, 48 hp from 1.6 litres. Despite lacking four-wheel drive, the rear-engine layout and standard differential lock gave it good off-road capability. Civilian mass-produced components also made repairs simple and inexpensive. More than 15,000 vehicles were acquired, many remaining in service into the 1990s.

For specialised duties, the Bundeswehr converted the Type 181 into radio and command vehicles, particularly for the Feldjäger. The „Funk-Kübel“ versions received a military 24-volt electrical system, a stronger alternator, and a second battery to power radio equipment such as the SEM 25 and SEM 35. The equipment replaced the rear seat or occupied the luggage compartment, reducing capacity to two or three occupants. Long whip antennas and a branch-deflector bar above the windscreen were their most distinctive features.

Versions used by the Feldjäger, medical units and garrison commands were also fitted with blue beacons and two-tone emergency horns. Many combined this warning equipment with the 24-volt radio system, allowing them to coordinate operations and exercise special traffic privileges while on duty.