Volkswagen T2a (1971) Passionate hobby for Johan

The Volkswagen T2a (1971) is the progenitor of a series of commercial vehicles that have defined the streetscape since 1950. This early T2, produced until 1971, is still popular today; from work vans to campervans and, as shown here, as a unique tanker truck in Fina livery. The early version, the T2a (1967–1971), is recognizable by its low front turn signals and small rear lights. In 1971, it also received standard front disc brakes and—depending on the model—the 1600 cc air-cooled boxer engine (Type 1), good for approximately 47 DIN hp.

At HOS Oil, it's not just about energy and mobility, but also about history and experience. This is immediately evident in the Volkswagen T2a, which today once again boasts the classic Fina colors. This choice is no coincidence. HOS Oil stems from the family business my grandfather started as HOS, Hoekstra Oil Service. Even in the early days, people were loyal to Volkswagen for their deliveries and dedication to their work, and that bond with the brand still aligns with the company's story.

The fully restored bus is more than just a hobby project. It's a driving calling card that harks back to its origins while simultaneously demonstrating what the company stands for today. HOS Oil has been a partner within the TotalEnergies network for decades. That relationship dates back to the early 1980s. Historically, that picture is also accurate: Total merged with the Belgian company Petrofina (known for Fina) in 1999 and became TotalFinaElf in 2000 after acquiring Elf Aquitaine; the name has been Total since 2003 and TotalEnergies since 2021.

And if you think it's just one classic, you don't know Johan yet. Besides the VW, there's also a 1995 Opel Calibra V6 and a BMW E36 in Fina DTM livery, Cecotto-style. A love of automotive history runs like a thread through the garage.

Johan bought the bus over twenty years ago. For a long time, it remained just plans and dreams, until 2022, when the decision was made. This had to be a restoration as it should be: according to factory specifications and with an eye for originality and detail. Two specialized companies collaborated on the execution: one for the bodywork and paintwork, and one for the mechanicals and construction. The entire process has been documented in detail with photographs. This provides a complete and clear picture of the restoration from start to finish; a valuable overview of everything that was done to the Volkswagen T2a.

Tank truck with history

What makes this T2a extra special is the rear tanker. It was preserved by chance, allowing the bus to retain its original character. The tanker was also completely overhauled during the restoration and returned to top condition. A nice detail: with the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority), it is actually registered as a Volkswagen T2 tanker truck, not a pickup truck, exactly as it was originally intended.

"What moves me about classic cars is their origins, development, and history," says Johan. "Now I can truly enjoy this VW, expertly restored with a meticulous eye for detail." Over a period of more than two and a half years, it was gradually restored to its original condition.

You can take that step-by-step process literally. Johan has over 1000 photos of the process. The restoration of the bodywork and the preparation for spray painting alone took approximately 1500 hours. That speaks volumes about the dedication and the level of detail to which this Volkswagen T2a has been restored.

The appraisal report speaks for itself. It's a top-notch restoration with high scores for finish, quality, and originality. And the value? We'd rather leave that out of the picture, for the sake of our blood pressure, as Johan puts it with a wink.

The stunning Volkswagen T2a is not only a classic but also a moving piece of company and family history. With his van, Johan contributes to keeping mobile heritage alive and to the story of HOS Oil, the family business that has stood for quality, service, and innovation in energy and mobility for 45 years.