The revival of the classic Volkswagen Kombi, in its modern incarnation as the ID. Buzz, is set to electrify Australian roads by 2025. Both the passenger and cargo variants of the ID. Buzz have received the thumbs-up for launch, as part of the company's five electric vehicle line-up to be unveiled within the next couple of years.

Initial plans to roll out the ID. Buzz and its commercial version, the ID. Buzz Cargo, by mid-2024 have been revised, with production now slated to start towards the end of the same year. Volkswagen Australia's decision to bring the vehicles to the market has been underpinned by the perceived potential in the country, making it one of Volkswagen's key international markets.

Volkswagen Australia's director, Ryan Davies, expressed optimism about the future of the ID. Buzz in the country, revealing that the approval of the business case is mostly secured, and they are now waiting on technical sign-offs. Once these hurdles are cleared, the production availability, given the global demand, will be the next challenge.

The ID. Buzz has been earmarked as a high-volume vehicle with its production set to ramp up in Hannover, with an ambitious target of 130,000 units annually by 2023. The global demand for these electric vehicles is expected to be so strong that it may impact the short-term availability in Australia. However, the company remains bullish about the long-term prospects of these models in the market.

The electric duo is powered by a 77kWh lithium-ion battery and a single rear-mounted electric motor, delivering 150kW of power and 310Nm of torque. This gives it a driving range of up to 425km. Charging options include an 11kW AC power supply or a 170kW DC fast charger.

Volkswagen Australia also hopes to add to the ID. Buzz range with dual-motor all-wheel drive GTX models and an extended-length three-row body style. This reflects the existing demand for all-wheel-drive models and the practicality of a three-row variant.

In terms of design, the new models pay homage to the iconic Volkswagen 'Type 2' Kombi of the 1950s, with the electric reboot injecting a fresh dose of modernity. The company has yet to finalise the exact model range for Australia, but there is interest in a broad spectrum of variants encompassing rear- or all-wheel drive, short or long wheelbases, and different seating and battery pack options.

As anticipation for the ID. Buzz builds, there is a strong belief that this electric range could outshine the diesel-engined 'T6.1' line-up in sales. And despite the uncertainties surrounding production numbers in the first couple of years, Volkswagen Australia remains confident about the long-term success of the ID. Buzz range.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz represents a perfect fusion of classic design and modern functionality. As the electric successor to the legendary Volkswagen Kombi, it brings with it a unique blend of nostalgia and innovation, packaged in a versatile and roomy design.

The ID. Buzz stands out for its practicality and space. It is designed with a flexible interior, which caters to the demands of both families and businesses alike. Whether you're transporting passengers or cargo, the ID. Buzz has ample room to accommodate a range of requirements. Volkswagen has yet to release official dimensions for the ID. Buzz, but it is known that both short and long wheelbase variants will be available.

The short wheelbase variant is expected to offer a five-seat configuration, while the long wheelbase model could accommodate up to seven passengers with its additional third-row seating. The long wheelbase model will also feature an expanded cargo area, making it an ideal option for businesses or large families.

The ID. Buzz Cargo, designed to cater to commercial needs, provides generous cargo space. While precise dimensions are yet to be released, Volkswagen has indicated that it can carry a payload of up to 650 kg. This demonstrates its serious potential as a hard-working commercial vehicle.

A special feature of the ID. Buzz is the ID. Buzz Flex-Cab concept, which boasts a three-person rear bench seat that can be positioned in two different ways for added flexibility. Adjusted electrically via a switch on the B- or D-pillars, it offers customization of the interior space to cater to various needs.

As for the pricing, Volkswagen Australia has yet to announce the official pricing for the ID. Buzz. However, estimations based on UK prices suggest that the entry-level commercial van could start around $AU65,000, while the top-tier, rear-wheel drive people mover variant might be priced above $AU100,000. The final price will undoubtedly reflect the specific configuration, battery pack options, and potential additional features.

The ID. Buzz thus promises to deliver not only on the charm and nostalgia of the original Kombi but also on versatility, space, and value, becoming a promising contender in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market.