The Love Bug

An ex-racing driver turned small-town mechanic who is practical but initially wary of Herbie. He regains confidence through Hank’s teamwork with Roddy and the car’s revival, turning doubt into trust. His journey is one of humility, resilience, and learning to believe in second chances.

The narrator from the original story, revisiting Herbie’s legacy in the present-day tale. He brings a sense of history and memory, connecting past ownership with current events. His involvement helps anchor the emotional arc of Herbie’s resilience.

An egotistical race car driver and car dealer who treats Herbie as junk until jealousy drives him to seek control. He schemes with Horace to destroy Herbie, embodying arrogance and manipulation. His arrest marks the moral payoff against reckless ambition.

A journalist and former love interest of Hank who challenges him to prove Herbie’s innocence and power. She rekindles their relationship through shared adventures and a ride that demonstrates Herbie’s speed. Her presence blends romance with a practical, observant perspective.

A goofy, spiritually minded artist friend who provides comic relief and unexpected wisdom. Roddy helps bridge Hank’s skepticism with a belief in Herbie’s special nature. He champions teamwork and creative thinking.

An auto customizer who serves as a judge during the junk-car race and later helps reshape and repaint Herbie. His expertise in car modification drives the practical revival of the beloved beetle. He embodies hands-on craftsmanship and showmanship.

A German engineer who built Herbie shortly after World War II, whose legacy explains the car’s life force. He and his research provide the scientific backbone for Herbie’s revival when Hank and crew seek to restore it with original parts. His story links the post-war invention to present-day adventures.

The younger version of Dr. Stumpfel who appears in flashback scenes, illustrating the early creation of Herbie. His presence helps reveal the backstory of the car’s life and its intrinsic connection to the engineer’s family history.

Simon Moore’s partner who participates in illegal schemes and contributes to Horace’s destructive attempts. He represents the corporate-crook side of the antagonistic duo, and faces consequences for their actions.

A figure associated with Simon’s operation, contributing to the plan of destruction and evasion of the law. His role underscores the organized aspect of the antagonist’s schemes and the eventual crackdown.