Green light for VW I.D. Buzz 21 | 08 | 2017

    VOLKSWAGEN HAS CONFIRMED it will launch a production version of its retro-styled I.D. Buzz ‘Microbus’ concept before 2022. The announcement was made by VW boss boss Herbert Diess at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. (Related: Video shows details of VW T-Roc)

    First shown at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, the I.D. Buzz will now follow on from a production version of the I.D. electric hatchback, which is set to launch in 2020. The duo will form part of what will be an expanding family of bespoke VW EVs. (Related: VW commits to electric future)

    The autonomous concept, which is built on the brand’s MEB modular EV platform, takes a number of design cues from the Type 2 Microbus of the 1950s.

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    The latest 20187 interpretation incorporates a blunt front end and large VW badge, plus a two tone paintjob. But inside there’s a space-age cabin, while the looks are completed by modern wraparound LED lights and huge 22-inch alloys.

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    With a 3.3m wheelbase, the ‘Microbus’ concept also boasts  short overhangs and a boxy shape, all designed to maximise space. The result is a lounge-style layout capable of accommodating eight people. It also houses a driver’s seat that swivels 180 degrees, plus multi-adjustable rear chairs.

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    The driver’s seat automatically swivels 180 degrees when the autonomous I.D. Pilot mode is selected. This action also retracts the single-piece capacitive touch steering wheel while the car takes full control of the driving.

    As for other pioneering tech wonders, there’s a removable portrait tablet that controls the car’s functions, plus a reality head-up display.

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    Boasting all-wheel drive — there’s an electric motor on each axle producing a combined system output of 369bhp — the I.D. Buzz stores the batteries and motors sit beneath the floor, helping to lower the centre of gravity. That helps create two luggage compartments front and rear.

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    The addition of rear-wheel steering ensures a 10-metre turning circle, while rear air suspension and adaptive dampers deliver high levels of comfort for occupants.

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    In terms of performance, it’ll comer 0-62mph in 5.0secs and be limited to a max of 99mph. It’ll also be capable of covering 373-miles, calculated on the NEDC-rated driving figures. Inductive charging technology gives an 80% battery boost in 30 minutes.

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    According to VW, the range will also include a rear-wheel drive model — camper van conversions and a panel van are also expected to join the line-up — will deliver a reduced output of 268bhp. Expect it to hit 62mph from standstill in around 8.0secs.

    Related: VW Arteon flagship starts at £34,305

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    Jim McGill

     

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