Volkswagen has officially unveiled the new North American version of its retro-styled electric van, the ID. Buzz. This version, designed and tailor-made for the North American consumer, is approximately 10 inches longer than the two-row model and seats up to seven. However, it is still slightly smaller than a Chrysler Pacifica minivan. The base version of the ID. Buzz will be rear-wheel-drive, with an electric motor mounted in the back capable of producing 282 horsepower, more than 10 times the horsepower of an early VW Bus. It is also expected to be available with up to 330 horsepower with all-wheel-drive.
The ID. Buzz is designed to mirror the iconic Volkswagen T1, also known as the Microbus, or VW Bus. This legendary model was introduced in 1949 and eventually became associated with the Hippie movement of the 1960s. The ID. Buzz is expected to be available in the North American market in late 2024, providing comfortable and luxurious transport for large families.
The ID. Buzz also includes some modern touches, such as power-sliding doors, small inset power-opening windows, a power tailgate, and removable center storage console with dividers that can be used as an ice scraper or bottle opener. The second-row seats slide forward to provide easy access to the third row, which can be removed altogether. The light strip that runs across the dashboard provides helpful cues to the driver, including pulsing to indicate the vehicle is ready to drive and flashing if the collision avoidance system indicates urgent braking is needed.
The original VW bus was introduced as a supplement to the Volkswagen Beetle, but it quickly became a worldwide bestseller, with 1.8 million units manufactured by 1967. It is still a favorite among collectors today, with well-preserved versions fetching six-figure sums. Volkswagen hopes that the new and improved ID. Buzz will replicate this success, with prices expected to start around $40,000. The ID. Buzz will be available in Europe in both the long-wheelbase and short-wheelbase versions, which were launched last fall.
In summary, the new Volkswagen ID. Buzz offers a modern take on the iconic VW Bus of the 1960s. With the latest electric technology, more spacious interiors, and extra features, such as power doors and tailgate, this electric van offers a comfortable and luxurious ride for large families. The ID. Buzz is expected to be a worldwide bestseller, just like its iconic predecessor, with prices expected to start around $40,000.