Volkswagen unveiled the highly anticipated long-wheelbase ID.Buzz LWB, which could be the Volkswagen brand's return after 20 years away from the North American market.
The all-electric van has an increased wheelbase of 9.8 inches (250 mm) compared to the standard model, can accommodate seven people, and has room for a large suitcase. The ID Buzz LWB has a large wheelbase of 127.5 inches (3239 mm) and an overall length of 195.3 inches (4962 mm).
The added 10 inches are located in the sliding door position, which itself is 7.5 inches (192 mm) wider and 2.3 inches (580 mm) wider between the C-pillar and the rear wheel. From an exterior styling perspective, the ID.Buzz LWB is similar to the standard wheelbase model, with the same width and height at 78.1 inches (1985 mm) (without exterior mirrors) and 75.8 inches (1927 mm), respectively. The longer wheelbase improves proportions and is more harmonious in appearance, and the vehicle has an air drag coefficient of 0.29, which Volkswagen says is a "very good" value for a minivan.
The impact of the longer wheelbase on the interior is significant, not only creating enough space for the third row of seats and more luggage storage, but also creating the conditions for a new larger 91kWh battery cell that provides more range.
ID.Buzz LWB is available in five-, six- and seven-seat configurations. Adjustable armrests are standard on the inside of the front seats (outside armrests are optional). The top version of the seat is 12-way electrically adjustable, also has massage and memory functions, and will also be equipped with new seat air conditioning.
The second row of seats comes standard with three-seat townhouses with 40/60 split foldable backrests. The backrest angle can be adjusted 16 degrees, and the seat can slide 7.9 inches (200 mm) back and forth, sliding fully or in sections. Heated seats are available for the outer seats. It is also possible to choose two separate seats for the second row, including armrests.
The third row of seats consists of two separate seats that can be completely removed if needed. The third row is standard in the United States, but is optional in Europe and Canada. When the second and third rows of seats are folded, paragliding equipment, bicycles and skateboards can be easily accommodated with a maximum load capacity of 87.2 cubic feet (2469 liters).
The ID.Buzz LWB will introduce new features in the cockpit, including a head-up display and an enhanced infotainment system supported by the latest ID software, as well as a new graphical interface and improved touchscreen menus. The new 12.9-inch display is simpler, more intuitive and customizable; There is also a 5.3-inch digital instrument cluster controlled by a multifunction steering wheel. 10 colours of ambient lighting are standard in the cockpit, with optional additions increasing to 30 colours. The new Smart Glass has a panoramic sunroof measuring 16.1 square feet (1.5 square meters), which is Volkswagen's largest glass roof to date, completely covering the first and second row seats, and has electronically controlled tinting. The windows, sliding doors and tailgate can be opened and closed electrically.
The VW ID.Buzz LWB will be available in two battery sizes: an 82kWh (77kWh available) and a new 91kWh (85kWh available) battery. However, Volkswagen did not disclose the range of range, but said that it will provide the new APP 550 rear axle drive. The new drive unit provides 282 hp (210 kW) and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque to the rear axle, increases the top speed to 100 mph (160 km/h), and reduces the acceleration time from standstill to 62 mph to 7.9 seconds. The performance-biased all-wheel drive version of the GTX will be available later in 2024 with 335 hp (250kW) and a 0-62 mph time of just 6.4 seconds.
The VW ID.Buzz LWB will also bring faster DC fast charging capabilities up to 200 kW, with the largest capacity battery pack charging from 10% to 80% in 25 minutes. The battery thermal management system has also been set up optimally and equipped with a new heat pump to improve efficiency in winter.
The Volkswagen ID.Buzz LWB will be manufactured at its facility in Hanover, Germany, with deliveries beginning in 2024, and pricing and specifications, including range estimates, will be announced ahead of official launch.
Electrification has brought new opportunities for the revival of Volkswagen's small commercial vehicles, and this model with great potential for improvement will play a role in various fields.
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