Check out this full-size VW camper … made from Lego!

Two experienced Lego model makers have built what is probably the world’s biggest camper van – using some 400 000 Lego bricks. The full-size Volkswagen T2 (or Bulli as it is affectionately known in some markets) was unveiled ahead of the f.re.e Leisure & Travel Fair that took place in Munich, Germany, earlier this year.

The vehicle that served as the blueprint for the model was the T2a camper van built between 1967 and 1971. Visitors to the show were able to compare the 700 kg model against its real-life counterpart that was parked alongside.

“Are we going to manage it – or are we going to run out of bricks or time?” This was the question posed by Rene Hoffmeister, one of only 12 certified Lego model makers in the world. Together with colleague Pascal Lenhard, he had only six weeks to manage this world-record attempt.

Using 3D programmes, the duo produced a construction plan in advance. From that they were able to calculate the precise number of bricks required. The rigidity of the side walls and windows were another particular aspect that had to be accurately calculated in order to ensure lasting stability.

Hoffmeister said: “Essentially, we would have needed a nine-day week. However, as they don’t exist, the only option was night shifts.” Hoffmeister and Lenhard therefore carried on “playing” with their plastic bricks from morning to night and over the weekends in order to finish on time.

They also included in their model the Westfalia pop-up roof, so popular on campers, the sliding door, which was technically very challenging to create, and the interior fittings.

However, it wasn’t always easy. Having begun without a hitch, they suddenly found they were missing 20 000 transparent bricks for the T2’s windows and their supplies dried up without warning.

However, to say the final product is impressive would be an understatement. The camper van measures over five metres in length, 1,9 m in width and close to two metres in height. In fact, when popped up the roof projects no less than three metres towards the sky.

What an amazing achievement!