Volkswagen starts production of ID Buzz EV

Ready, set, buzz

Last week, we got hold of Volkswagen's collaboration with Star Wars showcasing the upcoming ID Buzz EV. And now, the German manufacturer has given the green light on producing the much-awaited microbus.

Volkswagen’s Hannover factory has been overhauled to help with the rebirth of the icon and is now ready to produce the ID Buzz. According to VW, they have 4,000 employees specially trained with regard to the assembly process of the ID Buzz and its business-oriented "Cargo" version. In order to streamline processes, the ID Buzz will be sharing the same production line with the Multivan T7 and the Transporter T6. 

The 2023 ID Buzz will be a fully-electric offering from the German manufacturer. It will share the same platform as the ID 4 crossover and the same powertrain. For the EU market, the 77-kilowatt lithium-ion battery pack is mated to a rear-mounted single electric motor, which churns out 201 PS and 229 Nm of torque. With this setup, the ID Buzz is rated with a range of 200 miles on a single charge.

In terms of its driver-assist systems, the VW ID Buzz features automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and roadside recognition as standard. In addition, other safety features such as VW’s travel assist system, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams are also fitted to the EV.

Inside, the ID Buzz shows a futuristic and comfortable cabin. Gone are the traditional gauges and in its place are two floating tablets. There's a 10-inch display for the driver, while the infotainment system has a 12-inch screen. In addition, there are also USB C ports in the dashboard for easy smartphone connectivity.  

The ID Buzz will have a total of 11 colors to choose from, including 4 coming in two-tone colorways, which makes the microbus appeal to the young and trendy.

Now that it's ready for production, VW says the ID Buzz Pro 5-seater sells in the EU market for EUR 56,606 (PHP 3.2-million). On the other hand, the Cargo variant is cheaper at EUR 46,455 (PHP 2.6-million). In other markets, however, the ID Buzz may have different pricing, as it takes advantage of the EU's environmental rebate.

For the US market, the ID Buzz is set to have other variants with a longer wheelbase, an AWD version, and could come with more power. However, they will have to wait until mid-2023 to get their hands on the EV microbus.

Riding on that nostalgic microbus vibe, Volkswagen may have a winner here. With its extraordinarily strong Kombi following, this new model also appeals to the younger electric generation. Let’s see if it sparks that same energy and brings VW another people-mover champion.