We have been waiting for it since 2017 and the presentation of the ID Buzz concept car of the same name. Five years later, the serial version of the first Volkswagen electric van was presented. The manufacturer plays on nostalgia and references to history. With design and a philosophy that takes us back to the very first Transporter, the T1. This one was born under the influence of Dutch Volkswagen importer Ben Pon. It was he who created the first Combi designs, drawing inspiration from the “Plattenwagen” machine seen in 1947 at the Wolfsburg factory. It already contains the codes of the future Combi in a certain way. Rear engine, front cab and a flat top for maximum loading. Ben Pon adapted it from a Bug mechanics. After difficult negotiations with management, his project for the first Volkswagen SUV, the Beetle in a specific body, was able to see the light of day. It was in 1950.

Successful neo-retro!

Already from the outside stocky silhouette and short overhangs is a supposed reference to parentage. Up front, we find the same V-split as on the original Combi, with an over-prominent logo as it was back then. Not to mention many two-tone paints dress the body But beyond its tough exterior, the ID Buzz has a low center of gravity and optimized aerodynamics. In the salon, we are greeted by generous volumes (due to short overhangs). The first utility designed specifically for electricity (and not adapted from a thermal platform), ID Buzz promises the range is 416 kilometers, and replenishment from 5 to 80% in just 30 minutes. her Battery with a capacity of 77 kWh allows fast charging up to 170 kW. The electric motor that drives it produces 204 horses and sends its power to the rear wheels. This is again a homage to the first Combi, which borrowed this architecture from the Beetle.

Soon in the 7-seat version

One of the benefits of the MEB platform that powers all ID models is that it offers a perfectly flat floor and low cargo threshold. It is equipped as standard two sliding side doors and a tailgate to access the highway. They are equipped with an electric drive as an option. In the civilian version, it offers so far five real places, and one wheelbase length. All this will soon change because the long-awaited long version is coming! Volkswagen has confirmed that this car, which will offer seven seats, will be unveiled on June 2 in an unusual environment. The Beach in Huntingdon Beach, California! As well as being more livable, this long ID.Buzz chassis can inherit a larger capacity electric battery than 77 kWh. Autonomy would be improved: finally involve families?