A family with historical ties to the Simson vehicle company has publicly disavowed any association with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. A spokesperson for the family, now residing in the United States, stated that any connection to the AfD is considered repulsive and an insult to their name.
Simson Vehicles and Political Symbolism
Simson mopeds, such as the Schwalbe and S51 models produced in Suhl during East German times, remain popular today. The AfD has increasingly used these vehicles as a political symbol, even attempting to have the Simson designated as an intangible cultural heritage in several eastern German state legislatures.
Historical Context: The Simson Family
The Simson company was founded in Thuringia by the brothers Moses and Loeb Simson, initially as a weapons and vehicle manufacturer. In 1936, the family was expelled from Germany by the National Socialists and subsequently fled to the United States.
This news was broadcast on February 17, 2026, by Deutschlandfunk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AfD?
The AfD is the Alternative for Germany, a far-right political party.
Where is Thuringia?
Thuringia is an eastern state in Germany.
When did the Simson family flee Germany?
The Simson family fled Germany in 1936.
How might the AfD’s use of the Simson brand resonate with voters, and what implications could this have for the party’s future?
