ID Buzz Cargo

All-New ID Buzz: Volkswagen's Electric Revolution

The automotive world is buzzing with excitement as Volkswagen unveils its latest innovation, the ID Buzz. This electric vehicle is causing a revolution in the industry, combining nostalgic design with cutting-edge technology. The ID Buzz is not just another electric van; it's a bold statement from Volkswagen, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and their vision for the future of transportation.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the ID Buzz, exploring its striking design and impressive performance. We'll delve into its spacious interior, advanced technology features, and eco-friendly credentials. Additionally, we'll discuss the various models available, including the ID. Buzz Cargo and the long-wheelbase version, as well as pricing options and availability. Whether you're in the market for a new VW van or simply curious about the latest developments in electric vehicles, this review of the VW ID Buzz will give you all the information you need.

Design and Styling

The ID Buzz represents a bold reimagining of Volkswagen's iconic T1 microbus, bringing its legendary design into the age of electric mobility. This innovative vehicle combines nostalgic elements with modern aesthetics, creating a unique and eye-catching presence on the road.

Iconic Microbus Reimagined

Volkswagen has successfully transferred the DNA of the beloved T1 into the electric era with the ID Buzz. The design team has reinterpreted the characteristic features of the original microbus, incorporating them seamlessly into the ID model's design language. The result is a vehicle that pays homage to its predecessor while standing out as a completely unique creation.

One of the most striking features of the ID Buzz is its flowing silhouette, characterised by a flat and elongated roof line that runs from front to rear. This design element not only evokes memories of the classic T1 but also contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency. Despite its spacious dimensions, the ID Buzz boasts compact proportions and a small turning circle, ensuring great everyday usability and dynamic manoeuvrability in urban environments.

Exterior Features

The ID Buzz's exterior design is a masterful blend of retro-inspired elements and cutting-edge technology. The front fascia features a V-shaped hood and a prominent VW logo, lending a charismatic look to the vehicle. A distinctive light strip connects the headlamps, creating a modern and cohesive appearance.

The side and rear of the ID Buzz continue the design theme of separating the vehicle into upper and lower zones. This design choice becomes particularly striking when paired with the optional two-tone paintwork, further emphasising the connexion to its historic predecessor.

One of the most innovative aspects of the ID Buzz's design is its use of LED lighting technology. The vehicle comes standard with LED lights, with the option to upgrade to the advanced IQ.LIGHT system. These LED matrix headlamps play a crucial role in shaping the vehicle's identity and creating an intelligent interaction with its surroundings. The lighting system even initiates a welcoming scenario as the driver approaches, giving the impression of the car "opening its eyes" and establishing eye contact.

[caption id="attachment_55896" align="alignnone" width="700"] ID Buzz Cargo[/caption]

Colour Options

The ID Buzz offers an extensive range of colour options, allowing owners to personalise their vehicle to suit their tastes. From classic solid colours to eye-catching metallic finishes and sophisticated two-tone combinations, there's a palette to satisfy every preference.

For those seeking a more understated look, options like Mono Silver (a free metallic paint choice) and Candy White (a £300 solid paint option) provide a clean canvas. These colours may appeal to those looking to customise their ID Buzz with decals or maintain a more commercial appearance.

The metallic paint options, priced at £1,035, include vibrant choices such as Bay Leaf Green, Energetic Orange, and Lime Yellow. These bold colours showcase the ID Buzz's fun and adventurous spirit. For a more refined appearance, Starlight Blue offers a smart, metallic sheen that performs well in the used market.

However, the two-tone paint options truly bring out the retro-inspired design of the ID Buzz. Priced at £2,790, these combinations pair Candy White with various colours for the lower half of the vehicle. The Candy White/Energetic Orange combination, reminiscent of the classic Samba Bus Transporter, is particularly striking. Other options include Candy White/Bay Leaf Green for a fresh look, Candy White/Lime Yellow for a playful appearance, and Candy White/Starlight Blue for a more subdued yet smart aesthetic.

Performance and Range

The Volkswagen ID Buzz brings together impressive performance and range, making it a versatile electric vehicle suitable for both private and commercial use. This innovative electric drive system offers a compelling combination of power, efficiency, and convenience.

Electric Powertrain Specs

The ID Buzz Cargo features an electric motor cleverly housed in the rear, delivering a maximum output of 150 kW, equivalent to 204 PS. This rear-wheel-drive configuration provides ample power for everyday driving challenges. The Volkswagen ID Buzz Pro, the passenger version, boasts similar specifications with a maximum power of 150 kW (201 hp) and a peak torque of 229 lb-ft.

In terms of performance, the ID Buzz Pro can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 10.2 seconds, with a top speed of 90 mph. These figures demonstrate the vehicle's capability to handle both urban environments and motorway driving with ease.

Battery Capacity

The ID Buzz is equipped with a lithium-ion high-voltage battery positioned in the vehicle floor. The standard battery offers a net energy content of 77 kWh (gross: 82 kWh). This configuration allows for an impressive driving range of up to 256 miles without recharging, making it suitable for most daily commutes and longer journeys.

It's worth noting that the actual range can vary depending on several factors, including climate, terrain, use of climate control systems, and driving style. For instance, sustaining high speeds in cold weather might reduce the range to around 150 miles, while driving at lower speeds in mild weather could extend it to approximately 310 miles.

[caption id="attachment_48405" align="alignnone" width="700"] VW ID Buzz GTX[/caption]

Charging Capabilities

The ID Buzz offers flexible charging options to suit various needs:

AC Charging: Using a Type 2 connector, the on-board charger has a maximum power of 11 kW. With this setup, a fully depleted battery can be recharged in approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, provided a 3-phase grid connexion is available.

DC Fast Charging: The ID Buzz supports rapid charging through a CCS connexion, with a maximum charging power of up to 175 kW. At this rate, it takes only about 30 minutes to charge the battery from 5% to 80%. On average, a rapid charge session operates at around 115 kW, adding approximately 145 miles of range in half an hour.

To enhance the charging experience, Volkswagen has introduced Plug & Charge technology. This feature allows users to simply plug in the cable, and charging begins automatically, with authentication data stored in the vehicle after its first use. This technology is being gradually rolled out via an ISO-certified standard, making charging more convenient at an increasing number of stations.

For those considering the long-wheelbase version of the ID Buzz, it comes with a larger 85 kWh (net capacity) battery, offering an extended range of up to 474 kilometres. This version also benefits from slightly higher performance, with a top speed of 160 km/h and increased torque of 550 Nm, making it ideal for those who require more power and range.

Interior Space and Versatility

The Volkswagen ID Buzz offers a spacious and versatile interior, combining innovative design with practical functionality. This electric vehicle provides ample room for passengers and cargo, making it suitable for various needs.

Seating Configurations

The ID Buzz comes in multiple seating configurations to accommodate different requirements. The five-seater version features individual seats for the driver and front passenger, equipped with adjustable armrests as standard. Higher specification models include armrests on the outside of the front seats as well. The top-tier versions boast fully electrically adjustable seats with memory and massage functions, allowing for personalised comfort.

In the rear, a triple bench seat with a 40:60 split-folding backrest provides flexibility for passengers and cargo. This bench can be moved lengthways by 150 mm, either as a whole or in a 60:40 split, offering extra legroom or additional luggage space as needed.

For those requiring more seating capacity, the ID Buzz is available in six- and seven-seat configurations. The six-seat layout in the short wheelbase model provides a convenient path to access the third row.

Cargo Capacity

The ID Buzz excels in cargo capacity, offering impressive space for both passenger and commercial use. In the five-seater configuration, with all seats in place, the vehicle provides 1,121 litres of luggage space up to the top edge of the second row seatbacks. Folding down the second row increases the load capacity to 2,205 litres.

For commercial applications, the ID Buzz Cargo variant offers a cargo space capacity of 3,900 litres, capable of accommodating two Euro pallets. The maximum payload for the Cargo version is 648 kg.

The long wheelbase version of the ID Buzz further enhances cargo capacity. With all seven seats up, it offers 306 litres of boot space. In five-seat mode, this increases to 1,340 litres, and with all seats folded, it provides a substantial 2,469 litres of space.

Innovative Storage Solutions

Volkswagen has incorporated several innovative storage solutions to maximise the utility of the ID Buzz's interior space. One notable feature is the removable ID Buzz Box, a versatile storage unit designed specifically for this model. In the passenger version, it includes a large storage compartment, an ice scraper, a bottle opener, and a 5-litre drawer for miscellaneous items. The Cargo variant's ID Buzz Box is tailored for work use, with a compartment for a laptop or clipboard and an additional cup holder.

The vehicle also offers numerous cubbies and storage spaces throughout the cabin. The central compartment below the air vents opens to reveal cup holders and storage for smartphones. The optional Multiflex floor in the cargo area creates additional storage space, ideal for keeping charging cables out of sight while providing a completely flat load surface when the rear seats are folded.

Accessibility is enhanced by electrically operated sliding side doors, making it easy to enter and exit the vehicle or load cargo. The tall roof design allows small children to stand upright when getting in and out, further improving convenience for families.

Technology and Connectivity

Infotainment System

The ID Buzz boasts a fully digital operating concept with an innovative infotainment system. The vehicle features a Digital Cockpit with a 5.3-inch display, which the driver can operate using touch controls on the multifunction steering wheel. A larger touch display is positioned in the middle of the dash panel, measuring 10 inches diagonally with the standard Ready 2 Discover radio system. This system comes with a navigation function that can be activated later. For those seeking more, the optional Discover Pro system offers a 12-inch touchscreen with pre-activated navigation.

Beneath the touch display, two touch panels house sliders for adjusting audio volume and temperature. Digital buttons below these controls provide access to menus for parking, air conditioning, driver assist systems, and running gear modes. The ID Buzz also features Hello ID, a natural voice control system that quickly recognises and responds to questions and commands, understanding free formulations and allowing interruptions.

Driver Assistance Features

The ID Buzz comes equipped with a range of driver assistance systems to enhance safety and convenience. Travel Assist, an optional feature, keeps the vehicle in its lane, maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and adheres to a driver-set maximum speed. This system adapts to the driver's style and can position the vehicle off-centre in the lane if preferred.

An advanced version, Travel Assist with swarm data, can function using just one identified road lane marking, making it useful on country roads without central markings. At speeds above 90 km/h on motorways, this system can even support lane changes when activated by the driver's turn signal.

Another innovative option is Park Assist Plus with memory function. This system can learn and remember up to five individual parking manoeuvres, allowing the ID Buzz to replicate these procedures autonomously. It can also search for suitable parking spaces and execute parking manoeuvres with minimal driver input.

Smartphone Integration

The ID Buzz offers extensive options for integrating mobile devices, effectively serving as both a digital living room and a mobile office. The vehicle comes standard with three USB-C ports, with the option to add three more. Most of these ports support the USB Power Delivery charging standard, allowing for rapid charging of up to 45 watts.

App-Connect wireless is included as standard for smartphone integration, allowing selected apps to be wirelessly integrated into the ID Buzz's native environment. Users can choose between Android Auto and Apple CarPlay technologies. A smartphone stowage area with inductive charging function is also standard, with an optional Comfort mobile phone interface available for those desiring a charging base integrated into the dash panel.

The ID Buzz supports We Connect and We Connect Plus online services, connecting the vehicle with users' smartphones and the outside world. These services enable features such as online voice control, navigation with real-time traffic information, internet radio, and media streaming via a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Sustainability Features

The Volkswagen ID Buzz stands as a testament to the company's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable innovation. This all-electric vehicle not only offers zero emissions while driving but also incorporates a range of eco-friendly features that set new standards in the automotive industry.

Eco-Friendly Materials

Volkswagen has made significant strides in using sustainable materials throughout the ID Buzz's interior. The vehicle incorporates approximately 25 percent recycled materials, including both metals and plastics. One of the most notable innovations is the use of Seaqual® yarn for seat covers. This material comprises 10 percent collected marine debris and 90 percent recycled PES yarn, resulting in a 32 percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to conventional surface materials.

The ID Buzz also features ArtVelours Eco® seat covers, which boast an impressive 71 percent recycling share. The headliner and floor covering are made entirely from recycled polyester, while recycled plastics are used in the carpet's insulating layer, underbody cladding, and wheel housing liners. In total, an ID Buzz with five seats gives a second life to 63 half-litre PET bottles.

Energy Efficiency

While the ID Buzz emits no CO2 during driving, Volkswagen recognises the importance of addressing the entire energy lifecycle. The company advises drivers to charge their vehicles using green electricity whenever possible. To facilitate this, Volkswagen offers Naturstrom®, a TÜV Nord-certified green electricity option available through its subsidiary, Elli.

For home charging, ID Buzz owners can use electricity from their building's photovoltaic system or green electricity from an energy provider. The Volkswagen Naturstrom Connect tariff even provides monetary incentives for charging when there's an abundance of green electricity in the grid.

On the road, Volkswagen's We Charge service allows customers to access green electricity from various providers. IONITY, a high-power charging network, offers exclusively green electricity at its stations across 24 European countries.

Recycling Initiatives

Volkswagen's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vehicle itself. The company has set ambitious goals for its circular economy initiatives. By 2040, Volkswagen aims to use 40 percent of materials from recycled products across its entire range.

To support the expansion of renewable energy use, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is collaborating with the energy industry on specific projects. One such initiative involves two photovoltaic plants in Tordesillas, Spain, with a total annual capacity of around 74 million kilowatt hours. These plants, covering over 18 hectares, contribute to the generation of additional green electricity.

Volkswagen's commitment to sustainability is further evidenced by its goal to achieve net carbon neutrality by 2050. As an interim target, the company aims to reduce the carbon footprint of its passenger cars and light commercial vehicles by 30 percent per kilometre driven by 2030, compared to 2018 levels. These initiatives demonstrate Volkswagen's holistic approach to sustainability, encompassing not just the vehicles themselves, but the entire production and energy ecosystem.

Pricing and Availability

The Volkswagen ID Buzz, an eagerly anticipated all-electric vehicle, is set to make its debut in various markets with a range of options and pricing structures.

Trim Levels

Volkswagen has announced that the ID Buzz will be available in three distinct trim levels in the United States:

Pro S

Pro S Plus

1st Edition (launch-only model)

These trims offer buyers a choice between rear-wheel drive and 4Motion all-wheel drive configurations, catering to different driving preferences and needs. The pricing for these models is expected to fall within the range of $45,000 to $50,000, with some estimates suggesting a starting price of over $50,000 in the US market.

In Germany, the ID Buzz has a starting price of €64,600 (approximately $69,000), which includes VAT. It's important to note that pricing may vary across different markets and could be subject to change based on factors such as demand, availability, and local taxes.

Launch Markets

The launch strategy for the ID Buzz differs between Europe and North America. In Europe, Volkswagen is offering both commercial and passenger versions of the vehicle. However, North American customers will have access only to the long-wheelbase passenger version.

The UK market is set to receive a new seven-seater variant of the ID Buzz, which is expected to be available in the middle of 2024. This longer wheelbase version offers increased flexibility and space, accommodating either six or seven people depending on the configuration.

Expected Delivery Dates

Deliveries of the first ID Buzz models are scheduled to commence in the United States within the next few months. However, potential buyers should be aware that delivery times may vary based on several factors, including demand, factory production volumes, component supply, and specific model configurations.

For those considering placing an order, it's advisable to anticipate a delivery window between February 2025 and January 2026, based on current estimates. However, some customers have reported waiting periods of up to 18 months.

To get a more accurate timeline, prospective buyers are encouraged to contact their local Volkswagen dealership. Dealers can provide more precise information based on individual configurations and current production schedules.

It's worth noting that the first customer deliveries of the production vehicle were initially expected to begin in January 2023, subject to change at Volkswagen's discretion. The company advises that delivery times may not necessarily correspond to the time of pre-booking or order placement, as various factors influence the production queue.

Conclusion

The Volkswagen ID Buzz represents a significant leap forward in electric vehicle technology, blending nostalgic design with cutting-edge features. Its spacious interior, advanced connectivity options, and eco-friendly materials showcase Volkswagen's commitment to sustainability and innovation. The vehicle's impressive range and charging capabilities, coupled with its versatile seating configurations, make it a practical choice for both families and businesses.

As the ID Buzz rolls out across different markets, it's poised to shake up the electric vehicle landscape. With its unique blend of style, functionality, and environmental consciousness, the ID Buzz is more than just a mode of transport – it's a statement about the future of mobility. Whether you're drawn to its retro-inspired looks or its forward-thinking technology, the ID Buzz offers something truly special in the world of electric vehicles.

FAQs

What is the expected price range for the Volkswagen ID. Buzz?

The anticipated starting price for the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz is around £40,000, with higher trim levels and additional options potentially increasing the price up to approximately £46,500.

Does the ID. Buzz operate solely on electric power?

Yes, the ID. Buzz is entirely electric, featuring 369 horsepower from dual electric motors, one on each axle, which also enable all-wheel drive. The vehicle is equipped with a 111 kWh battery pack situated within the MEB chassis floor, supporting an estimated range of nearly 300 miles.

How far can the ID. Buzz travel before needing a recharge?

The ID. Buzz is capable of travelling up to 257 miles on a single charge, making it an eco-friendly and robust choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts.

Does the ID. Buzz come with a seven-seater option?

Yes, the ID. Buzz is available in a longer version that offers even more flexibility and space, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably.