Feel the buzz
The Volkswagen ID Buzz is an all-electric reinterpretation of the iconic VW Microbus, blending nostalgic design with modern electric vehicle (EV) technology. In Europe, it's available in various configurations, including passenger and cargo versions, with options for different battery sizes and powertrains. The ID Buzz is not currently available for sale in South Africa, so how did we drive one on test?
Related: Volkswagen ID.4 Pro (2024) - Quick Review
In late 2023, Volkswagen South Africa brought four ID Buzz Cargo models into South Africa as part of a feasibility study. Partnered with DHL to test the units in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, the project sought to establish the viability of these vehicles as last-mile delivery machines. After two years of the trial, the project was closed out, and the four units were dispatched to various media houses to allow journalists to take a crack at the electrified vans.
Styling
Now devoid of the bright yellow livery, the Buzz looks rather plain. Let's take a second to forget the back end of this vehicle, as there is not much to talk about. It's white, with sliding doors on the left and right sides and double-hinged rear doors. This allows for loading from just about anywhere, but as a whole, it is rather forgettable in a workhorse delivery van kind of way.
The front, however, is very attractive, and you can see the futuristic design aesthetic VW was going for. There are subtle throwbacks to the design many came to love from the Microbus and Caravelle eras. The large windows allow maximum visibility from the driver's seat facing forward, with rear visibility compromised due to side mirrors that seem just a little bit too small for proper navigation when travelling rearward.
Drivetrain
A single electric motor delivers 150kW and 310Nm to power the ID Buzz forward. This drive will rocket the Buzz from 0 to 100km/h in 10.2 seconds, quite a feat considering the considerable weight it has to shift. The ID Buzz Cargo accelerates swiftly until it reaches its limited top speed of 145km/h and will go no faster.
Nestled under the floorboards is an 82kW/h battery that will give the Buzz an effective range of just 380km before it needs a charge port. The Buzz can be charged via DC or AC charge points and can charge relatively quickly.
Tech and Features
As this is a delivery van model, it offers few features. There is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, just a 5.3-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity. You do get keyless start and an excessive number of stowage spaces all around the cabin, but outside of that, it's a rather barren affair.
Safety
The ID Buzz Cargo earned a five-star safety rating in Euro NCAP commercial van tests. Specifically, it received a Platinum medal for commercial vehicle safety. This was achieved by excelling in the Safety Assist category with an 83% score, thanks to its Autonomous Emergency Braking and pedestrian protection. The ID Buzz Cargo scored 92% in adult occupant safety, while in child occupant safety, it achieved 87%.
The Drive
Driving the ID Buzz does take some getting used to. It's a big vehicle with very little rear visibility, with no rear camera to assist, and it takes some finesse to manoeuvre. It is a one-pedal operation, and once you move off, it is very nimble in traffic. Still, staying away from the fast lane with this one is advisable, as the maximum speed achievable is prohibitive. Considering what this model is intended for, it is nothing short of brilliant if you never leave busy CBDs or the suburbs.
Pricing
The vehicle is not sold in South Africa, so there is no retail price. However, if we had to hazard a guess, based on the Euro price, customs and duties and taxes, to land the vehicle here, consumers would be expecting somewhere in the region of R 1 250 800, give or take a few rand, for the model we tested.
Verdict
It seems that Volkswagen's electrification plans for South Africa have stalled for now, with many of the ID models scheduled for release in the country being pushed back. South African car buyers remain resolute and averse to EVs, so maybe this isn't an evil plan. Globally, VW has rolled back much of its investment in new energy vehicles, and it's difficult to say if we will ever see the likes of the ID 4, ID 5, and Buzz hit our shores commercially.
The ID Buzz is a neat and engaging machine, and I would have liked to have driven the passenger version to see just how far ahead of the Caravelle the technology has gotten. Until the ID range makes its way to SA, we will just have to wait and see, but the future looks interesting and drives just as well.
