We’re very excited to announce Bruce, a 1961 restored VW T1 Kombi Split Screen, has become the latest addition to the CamperKing showroom as part of a new display.
Nicknamed Bruce thanks to its Australian roots, the T1 was restored in all its glory by previous owner Graeme Read and his son.
It now sits comfortably in our showroom alongside our latest VW CamperKing campervan models at our headquarters near Warmington in Warwickshire.
But what is a splitty? A splitty is an affectionate name for a Split Screen Van from the Type 1 VW Transporter range. The name originates from the ‘split’ in the front screen, which is actually a vertical metal window frame at the center of the vehicle holding two flat plates of laminated glass together.
Officially built on 24 March 1961, Bruce holds over 60 years' worth of history. It made its way to the UK in 2007 after being imported from Sydney, Australia by Lloyd Collins, who Graeme then purchased it from. Over the years, the van has had major repair work completed, its original paintwork restored, and internal renovation work undertaken.
Here's a closer look at Bruce's restoration journey over the years.
March 1961 – Bruce the Splitty was built for commercial purposes
2000 – In Australia, over the course of seven years, Bruce was regularly repaired with new wheels, brakes and other necessary maintenance so it could be brought into the UK.
2007 – In June, the van was imported from Sydney, Australia by Lloyd Collins. Graeme then began a major restoration process in October, where the old engine was removed and the old fuel tank was restored.
2008 – In early February, a new engine was fitted, followed by bodywork repair which involved sanding it down, removing the external side panels, and treating the rust as well as upholstery restoration.
2009 – In August of 2009, the gearbox and steering box was repaired and restored.
2010 – Early in the year, the original lights were restored followed by the official registration of the van in the UK, and naming the van Bruce.
2012 – Major external restoration works had been completed.
2017 – By May, sound insulation had been installed to reduce engine noise.
2021 – In July, a new fuel tank had been installed to allow the van to continue running on petrol.
2022 – Part exchange with CamperKing, where it is now proudly displayed at our headquarters.
Graeme was looking to upgrade to a more efficient motorhome that would allow more exploration of the UK. The split screen campervan was brought to us as a part exchange offer that we simply couldn’t refuse.
Graeme will be picking up his new CamperKing campervan next month.
To see Bruce firsthand, visit our showroom based near Banbury, on the Warwickshire/ Oxfordshire border at CamperKing HQ, Banbury Road, Warmington, Banbury, OX17 1JJ.