For decades, even until today, the Volkswagen Vanagon and other bus models have been a common sight on America’s highways. They’ve carried generations of hippies, rock bands, dirtbags, and even families across the country, and become an iconic symbol of the freewheeling lifestyle gained by spending time on the road. Now, to meet the age of electric vehicles, Volkswagen is bringing a modern take on the bus to the United States – The ID.Buzz, sure to be the coolest road trip vehicle at any campsite.
Photo: James Lipman, courtesy of Volkswagen
The Future of Road Trip Vehicles Is Here - and It Looks as Cool as It Drives
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz injects a dose of nostalgia the often futuristic world of electric vehicles. Its spacious, comfortable interior is designed for stretching out and enjoying the scenery – perfect for campsites and ski resort parking lots. It’s quiet ride and touch-screen display, along with the ability to include Harmon Kardon speakers – is perfect for tunes. The car will charge quickly from 20 percent to 80 percent at DC fast chargers. Plus, imagine the heads turning cruise in this iconic design reimagined for the electric age.
What’s coolest about this van — aside from its specs — is that it brings a new style to electric vehicles. Gone are the days of EVs only being “city cars,” and long gone is the myth of range anxiety. The ID.Buzz is proof that EVs can be stylistically diverse without sacrificing function, and that nostalgia can play a role in the future of road trips. All of this with plenty of space to bring everything you need for an extended trip.
Scroll through this gallery for a look at the new ID.Buzz:
Photo: James Lipman, courtesy of Volkswagen
Photo courtesy of Volkswagen
Photo courtesy of Volkswagen
Photo courtesy of Volkswagen
The all-electric microbus will be available in late 2024, starting at $59,995. That’s certainly a lot for a vehicle, and the ID.Buzz won’t qualify for federal tax rebates because it’s assembled outside the United States. But, according to Elecktrek, the automaker will likely offer extensive leasing deals and dealership options that seek to offset the lack of federal buying assistance.
You can opt for the “Dune” version if you’re a fan of the series, with its bright and otherworldly interior. “Copper” and “Moonlight” versions will also be on offer. Rear-wheel-drive options have an EPA estimated range of 234 miles, with all-wheel-drive trims at 231 miles. Whichever version you opt for, it’s sure to be the grooviest car on the road. 