Like the rest of the Volkswagen ID. family, the ID. Buzz is based on the Modular Electric Drive Kit or MEB. As such, it allows for further development of its on-board technology through over-the-air or OTA updates.

Initially, the ID. Buzz and its cargo derivative is launching with a 77-kWh battery providing current to a 203 horsepower (150 kW), 310 Nm of torque electric motor driving the rear axle. The position of the battery, integrated deep down in the sandwich floor, and the lightweight electric drive system result in a good distribution of weight and a low vehicle center of gravity says Volkswagen.

The lithium-ion battery can be charged from wall boxes or public charging stations using 11 kW alternating current (AC). Via a CCS plug connector at a DC rapid-charging station (direct current) the charging power increases to as much as 170 kW. When charged in this way, the battery charge level rises from 5 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes. Bi-directional charging also enables the ID. Buzz to feed unneeded energy from the battery into the customer's home network (Vehicle-to-Home). The power transfer and communication take place via a special DC bi-directional wall box.

The ID. Buzz makes full use of its bespoke platform to offer a spaciously designed interior. In the lounge-like, friendly ambience of the MPV version, five people have ample room for travelling and for their luggage (1,121 liters of capacity). If the second row of seats is folded down, the load capacity increases to up to 2,205 liters. Meanwhile, the cargo version can accommodate up to three people up front, while a fixed partition separates off the 3.9 cubic meter cargo space. In terms of dimensions, the ID. Buzz is roughly the same as the current T6.1 (4,712 mm). However, it does have an ultra-long wheelbase (2,988 mm). It’s also 81 mm wider than the T6.1

The environmental friendliness factor of the ID. Buzz is bolstered by the use of vegan and recycled materials. With the exclusion of any leather or materials of animal origin, upholstery in the ID. Buzz is made with substitute materials with “similar properties and feel.”

One of the fabrics used is Sequal yarn, made of 10 percent marine plastic and 90 percent recycled PET bottles which results in 32 percent fewer carbon emissions. This is joined by ArtVelours Eco upholstery, comprised of 71 percent recycled material and is the first instance of use in a Volkswagen Group model. These recycled materials are used for the vehicles’ seat covers, floor coverings and headliner.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo will come onto the market in the first few European countries later this year. Pre-orders are due to start in May. With the ID. Buzz, Volkswagen of America will also be initiating the comeback of the so-called microbus which will have an extended wheelbase and a third row of seats.