Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

A long time ago, VW created the Sambabus and it became a cult classic favorite not just for the so-called hippie crowd but for road trippers young and old alike. Fast forward to today and the Sambabus just got an electrified remake. Welcome to the ID.BUZZ.

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

A concept turned reality, the Volkswagen ID.BUZZ is the electrified remake of the ancient Sambabus that is now catering to the Gen Z crowd in the way the Sambabus caters to the boomers. Which generation is the people on, the ID.BUZZ is fit for all generations of life.

There are two kinds of ID.BUZZ available such as the business-friendly ID.BUZZ Cargo, which is priced at 54,431 Euros plus additional costs, and the fun-for-all ID.BUZZ Pro, which starts at 64,581 Euros plus additional costs. Although they're as pricey as a luxury car, these modernized Sambabuses are ready for a new kind of samba.

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ interior

While the styling draws inspiration from the concept, which is a sigh of relief for motoring observers, the interior is nothing but basic. Unlike the ancient Sambabus, the ID.BUZZ Pro can seat up to five people while the ID.BUZZ Cargo is good for two because the back is where the most important cargo goes. Apart from the minimalist interior layout, the extensive use of vegan and recycled materials showcased its guilt-free commitment as an eco-friendly electric MPV.

Powering the ID.BUZZ's electric propulsion system is a single-drive motor bolted to a 77kWh Li-ion battery located under the van. In the Pro version, it produces 204PS of power, 310Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 10.2 seconds, a 145kph of top speed, and up to 423km of driving range. The Cargo's good for 425km per full charge. As for charging times, it will take half an hour to reach from 5% to 80% charge while plugged into a 170kW outlet.

Although not a fun car to drive by yourself, the ID.BUZZ feels soothing to drive even on open roads. In the case of family trips, you can really find some sweet spot while into it unless child seats took over the second row. As for safety, the ID.BUZZ is packed with Car-2-X local warning system, front assist, lane keeping assist, and the available Travel Assist.

The Sambabus remake known as the ID.BUZZ... Although it's got fewer seats than the ancient Sambabus, the ID.BUZZ is all about capability in the midst of the new normal. As a concept turned reality, there's so much to know about this electrified Sambabus remake but it's best to leave it here.

Photo: Volkswagen AG