ID. Buzz

Make
Volkswagen
Segment
Van

We've known for a while now that VW will launch a reborn microbus for the 2024 model year. Based on the same MEB platform as the currently on sale ID.4, the ID.Buzz, as it's currently called, will have a unique body and interior layout more suitable for carrying people and cargo. Two variants are expected, cargo and passenger.

Last month, we caught an ID.Buzz prototype undergoing autonomous vehicle testing but the images were not the clearest. Our spy photographers have cleared this up for us, so to speak. These latest spy shots not only show a test mule fitted with autonomous driving hardware, but also a clearer look at the passenger variant. The rear windows lack the paneling that took the place of glass.

The lighter camouflage allows to see, more or less, final design. It doesn't differ too much from the concept. Even the VW badge up front is visible, as is more of the headlight design and some taillight graphics. Also notice the charging port on the right rear fender.

Perhaps even more interesting is that, for the first time, we can see the production-spec interior. The entire digital gauge cluster and large touchscreen are visible. Both strongly resemble the ID.4's screens, which isn't too surprising given these vehicles are derived from the same platforms. Look closely and you'll notice the graphic on the main screen is that of the overseas-only ID.3 hatchback.

Looking back at the exterior and VW makes no effort to disguise the fact this is a "self-driving test vehicle." There's even Argo AI graphics on the front doors. The self-driving technology firm's parent companies are Volkswagen and Ford.

Starting in 2025, the ID.Buzz will be the first EV van to have fully autonomous driving capability. And so far, Tesla has yet to announce a van of its own. The delivery van segment is expected to dramatically grow in the coming years and VW is making every effort to be a leader. Ford is also a major player here and Rivian will, of course, supply specially-built delivery vans to chief investor Amazon. But having the honor of being the first to offer fully autonomy is something VW is determined to achieve.