PS Speicher

In the charming town of Einbeck, Lower Saxony, Germany, lies a hidden gem for automobile enthusiasts and history buffs alike: the PS Speicher. Officially known as PS-Speicher, this museum is a treasure trove of motorized history, offering a unique and immersive experience into the evolution of individual mobility on wheels. From the earliest bicycles to futuristic visions of transportation, PS Speicher promises a journey through time that is both educational and exhilarating.

A Brief History of PS Speicher

PS Speicher opened its doors to the public on July 23, 2014, and has since become a beacon for those interested in the history of motorized vehicles. The museum is housed in a meticulously restored grain storage facility from 1898, which underwent a significant transformation between 2012 and 2014 to become the stunning exhibition space it is today. The foundation behind this incredible project is the non-profit PS.SPEICHER Foundation, which emerged from the Cultural Foundation Kornhaus, established in 2009. The museum's collection primarily stems from the private collection of Karl-Heinz Rehkopf, who amassed the world's largest collection of German motorcycles.

The Main Exhibition

Spread across six floors and 4,000 square meters, the main exhibition at PS Speicher offers a chronological journey through the history of motorized vehicles. Visitors begin their tour at the top of the building and work their way down, starting with the invention of the bicycle, motorcycle, and automobile in the 19th century. Each floor represents a different era, showcasing the technological advancements and societal impacts of motorized transportation through the decades.

The exhibition is not just a display of over 300 historical bicycles, motorcycles, and automobiles; it is an interactive experience. With around 90 multimedia stations, visitors can delve into the socio-economic contexts of each era, exploring how motorized vehicles influenced and were influenced by the world around them. From the roaring twenties to the post-war boom, and from the rise of the leisure society to the fall of the Berlin Wall, each floor tells a story of progress, innovation, and change.

Special Exhibitions and Unique Features

PS Speicher is not just about static displays. The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions, drawing from its extensive depot of historical vehicles. One of the highlights is the collection of microcars from the former Automuseum Störy, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of small car manufacturers during the mid-20th century. Another notable feature is the PS-Halle, a 750 square meter space added in 2016, which hosts cultural events and special exhibitions, such as the historic Lanz Bulldog tractors.

For those interested in motorsport, the adjacent hall dedicated to racing offers an 800 square meter exhibition space where visitors can explore the thrilling world of competitive racing. This section was inaugurated by renowned racing figures Jutta Kleinschmidt and Toni Mang in November 2015, adding an extra layer of excitement to the museum's offerings.

Exploring the Depots

Beyond the main exhibition, PS Speicher boasts several depots that house an impressive array of vehicles. The PS.Depot Lkw + Bus, located in the Otto-Hahn-Park, opened in June 2016 and showcases over 220 historical commercial vehicles, including buses and trucks. This depot also features the Lanz-Wirtschaft section, with around 30 Lanz Bulldogs and other agricultural machinery, many of which are still operational.

The PS.Depot Kleinwagen is a haven for fans of small cars, with approximately 250 vehicles on display. From the iconic Citroën 2CV to the quirky Messerschmitt Kabinenroller, this depot offers a delightful look at the world of compact and efficient transportation. Meanwhile, the PS.Depot Automobil focuses on cars from the Wirtschaftswunder era, highlighting German brands such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.

Motorcycle enthusiasts will find the PS.Depot Motorrad particularly fascinating, with 3,500 square meters dedicated to two-wheeled wonders. The collection spans from the early days of motorcycling to the 1980s, featuring both German and international brands. Rare and unique models, such as the Hildebrand & Wolfmüller motorcycle, provide a captivating glimpse into the evolution of motorcycling.

Interactive and Accessible

PS Speicher is designed to be an engaging and accessible experience for all visitors. The museum features numerous interactive stations, where guests can immerse themselves in the history and mechanics of the vehicles on display. One of the most exciting attractions is the public racing simulator, a one-of-a-kind experience in Germany. Housed in a Porsche 911, this simulator offers six degrees of freedom, allowing visitors to feel the thrill of racing in a realistic and safe environment.

Accessibility is a key focus at PS Speicher, with the entire exhibition, including restrooms, being wheelchair-friendly. A large elevator ensures that all visitors can easily navigate the six floors of the main exhibition, making it a welcoming destination for everyone.

A Journey Through Time

A visit to PS Speicher is more than just a museum trip; it is a journey through the history of mobility. Each exhibit is carefully curated to provide not only a visual feast but also a deep understanding of how motorized transportation has shaped and been shaped by societal changes. From the early days of the bicycle to the futuristic visions of tomorrow, PS Speicher offers a comprehensive and captivating look at the world on wheels.

Whether you are a seasoned automobile aficionado or simply curious about the history of transportation, PS Speicher in Einbeck is a must-visit destination. Its rich collection, interactive exhibits, and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout attraction in Lower Saxony, promising an unforgettable experience for all who walk through its doors.