The VW ID. Buzz: A Modern, Electric Reimagining of the Classic Microbus

The VW ID. Buzz: A Modern, Electric Reimagining of the Classic Microbus

Volkswagen is transporting a beloved automotive icon into the electric age with the upcoming ID. Buzz. This all-new electric van captures the spirit and versatility of the classic VW Microbus while offering cutting-edge EV technology and features. Let’s take a closer look at what the ID. Buzz has to offer for families, road-trippers, and anyone looking for an emission-free vehicle with unmistakable style.

Retro Looks, Modern Performance

The ID. Buzz takes direct design inspiration from the original VW Microbus that was produced from 1950-1980. Its boxy, two-tone exterior looks plucked straight from the 1960s while offering modern design cues like LED lighting and flushed surfaces.

However, the real highlight is under the hood, where the ID. Buzz packs:

• A 91 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
• A rear-mounted electric motor producing 282 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque
• An estimated 260-mile range on a single charge (European model)
• Available all-wheel drive with a dual-motor setup producing 335 hp
• 0-60 mph time of around 7 seconds

So while it looks like a relic from the past, the ID. Buzz electric van offers punchy EV performance and decent range to make it viable as a daily driver.

Room for the Whole Crew

True to Microbus roots, the ID. Buzz provides immense versatility and interior space courtesy of its unique shape. It can accommodate up to 7 passengers across 3 rows of seats. Split-folding seats in the second and third rows allow for countless passenger/cargo configurations.

When all seats are folded, the ID. Buzz offers a massive 137 cubic feet of cargo space – enough room to haul furniture, outdoor gear, or literally everything you own for a move. Generous headroom and legroom in all rows mean even taller passengers can ride in comfort.

Other family-friendly interior features include:

• The 30-color ambient lighting system
• Removable cupholders and snack trays
• Built-in Bluetooth speakers
• Available panoramic glass roof
• Up to 8 USB ports

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Keeping You Safe and Connected

Like other new Volkswagens, the ID. Buzz will come loaded with the latest driver assistance systems as standard equipment including:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane-keeping assistance

Available upgrades will likely include adaptive cruise control, parking assist features, and even semi-autonomous driving capabilities on highways.

For connectivity, expect wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, over-the-air software updates, and available onboard Wi-Fi hotspots. The ID. A light bar running across the dash can communicate info like incoming phone calls and charge status.

Pricing and Trim Levels

Volkswagen hasn’t announced official pricing yet, but you can expect the ID. Buzz to start around $40,000-$45,000 for the base model. Three trim levels will be offered in the US:

ID. Buzz Pro S

• 7-passenger seating
• 20″ alloy wheels
• Keyless entry
• 30-color ambient lighting

ID. Buzz Pro S Plus

• Head-up display
• Surround-view cameras
• Harman Kardon audio
• Available AWD

ID. Buzz 1st Edition

• Two-tone paint
• Unique wheels
• Special retro-inspired interior
• Exclusive “owner’s gifts”

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Production of US-bound ID. Buzzes start in late 2024, with deliveries expected in early 2025 as a 2026 model-year vehicle.

No matter which trim you choose, the ID. Buzz promises to be an ultra-modern electric people-mover dripping with nostalgia. It combines the spirit of the classic VW bus with cutting-edge EV technology to create a truly unique product for the electric age.

So what do you think? Is the ID. Buzz the electric van of your dreams, or just a funky novelty? Drop a comment below and let me know!