After endless concept cars and teasers, Volkswagen has finally revealed the electric ID Buzz MPV and van.
Inspired by the iconic Type 2 Microbus, the all-new ID Buzz offers practicality with retro styling.
Although its looks recall the 1950s and 1960s, Volkswagen says the technology inside the electric ID Buzz is thoroughly modern.
Is the MPV cool again?
Nostalgia plays a key part in the styling of the ID Buzz. The prominent VW badge on the V-shaped front panel is an obvious nod to the famous original. Two-tone paint options will be available across the range.
Jozef Kabaň, head of Volkswagen Design, notes that: “The ID. Buzz is timeless, sustainable and yet also extremely functional – that makes it unique.”
The vehicles are based on Volkswagen’s MEB electric platform. This will feature a 77kWh battery pack at launch, which is connected to a 150kW electric motor. Just like the Microbus, it sends power to the rear wheels.
The ID Buzz is compatible with 11kW wallboxes, along with DC rapid charging devices. Using the latter allows the batteries to be boosted from five to 80 percent in 30 minutes.
‘Lounge-like ambience’
Volkswagen promises that the MPV version of the ID Buzz will deliver a ‘lounge-like, friendly ambience’, with room for five people inside.
Sliding rear doors will make climbing into the back easier, with access to the boot through a conventional tailgate. With the sliding rear bench in place, the ID Buzz offers 1,121 litres of luggage space. Folding them flat results in a colossal 2,205 litres.
Standard equipment on the ID Buzz MPV will include 10-colour interior ambient lighting, climate control air-con, LED headlights and 19-inch wheels. A digital dashboard and 10-inch multimedia touchscreen will feature, too.
Buyers will be able to specify two-tone interiors that complement the exterior paint colours.
Zero-emissions cargo transport
The interior of the ID Buzz Cargo will be more practical, with Volkswagen fitting a ‘robust’ floor covering in the cab.
Customers have a choice of two- or three-seat configurations, with a special ‘Buzz Box’ creating a space to store a laptop or clipboard.
A fixed partition will separate the load space from the cabin, with room for two Euro pallets to be carried. The ID Buzz Cargo has a maximum payload capacity of 650kg.
Latest technology as standard
Technology will play a key part in the ID Buzz, with Volkswagen installing its latest ID software. This includes a ‘Car2X’ local warning system to spot hazards, plus the option of a memory function for automated parking on saved routes.
The ID Buzz will be compatible with ‘Plug and Charge’ devices, enabling payment simply by connecting a charger. Bidirectional charging will allow the ID Buzz to feed surplus energy from the battery into the customer’s home.
Production of both models will be at Volkswagen’s Hannover plant, which was responsible for building the original Microbus.
An official launch is planned for autumn 2022, with customers in certain markets able to place orders from May.
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