The Volkswagen Microbus is forever linked with 1960’s beach culture and now it’s making a comeback with a modern update. We said it would never happen, but the Microbus is getting a re-launch as an all-electric based on the I.D. Buzz concept. It is slated to debut for the 2022 model year.
The concept I.D. Buzz made its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this year and received an overwhelmingly positive response. It looked very much a concept with styling unlike anything currently found in the Volkswagen lineup and a decidedly futuristic vibe. It was also cute and whimsical and a great modern version of the classic Microbus.
It was a preview of both how future Volkswagens could look and of what they could do. The interior was designed to be showcase autonomous technology and the way it will free up passengers to treat their cars as a living space, not just as a means to get them across town. There’s still a steering wheel, but who knows exactly what kind of autonomy Volkswagen will be able to incorporate in the next five years.
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The production version of the I.D. Buzz hasn’t officially been named, but it’s a solid bet they will revive the Microbus badge for this modern take on the classic. Volkswagen says it will be a four-door electric vehicle with the batteries tucked beneath the floor.
It will have a long wheelbase with elevated seating and all-wheel drive will be available as an option. It might fit the California beach vibe, but the all-wheel drive makes it just as worthy of winter weather.
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The concept has a range of 270 miles with a maximum of 162.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded down. It also has 369 horsepower, which should make it a lot more fun to drive than the original Microbus.
Aside from bringing back the Microbus name, this vehicle also moves Volkswagen a giant step away from diesel engines. Yeah, those things that got them in just a little bit of trouble for cheating on emissions and ended up costing Volkswagen millions of dollars. Electric cars are the clean future of vehicles and introducing the new Microbus as an electric will help give the brand a much needed image boost.
