Electric Bus Struggles: The Volkswagen ID.Buzz Falls Short
This specific Volkswagen model is not available for purchase.
The highly-anticipated electric bus from Volkswagen, the ID.Buzz, was designed to bring back the feel of the iconic VW Bus, but reality is eventually setting in as sales are disappointing. With only around 29,000 units sold globally last year, the numbers vastly underperform Volkswagen's own targets and other electric vehicles in this price range.
The Hard Truth about Sales
The ID.Buzz's induction into the world of electric vehicles was imagined as a modern tribute to the classic VW Bus, offering nostalgia while running emissions-free. However, the vehicle's sales are far from meeting expectations – a situation that has forced Volkswagen to offer price cuts in order to stimulate demand and reduce existing inventory.
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The ID.Buzz at a Glance
The ID.Buzz id offered in different versions, including the ID.Buzz Pro, which boasts a range of up to 472 kilometers in city driving. The battery’s charging capacity of up to 185 kilowatts enables fast charging at suitable charging stations. The bus seats up to seven people comfortably, and its cargo capacity increases to 2,835 liters when the back seats fold down. Nevertheless, experts criticize the limited interior flexibility and the low maximum towing capacity of 1.8 tons.
Pursuing a More Affordable ID.Buzz
The original sticker price of around €52,000 (€56,000 in Austria) proved to be a turn-off for many potential customers, as it didn't seem to offer enough value compared to conventional vehicles or more affordable electric options. General skepticism about buying electric vehicles, stemming from concern over charging infrastructure, range, and long-term usage costs, also played a role.
Now, in an effort to boost sales, Volkswagen has decided to reduce the price to just under €50,000 (€54,000 in Austria, depending on the model variant and subsidies). The company aims to spark renewed interest and decrease bloated inventory levels.
The ID.Buzz: A Mixed Bag
Despite its drawbacks, the ID.Buzz has some positive attributes. In the Euro NCAP crash test, the vehicle scored a stellar five-star rating, emphasizing its exceptional safety features and occupant protection. Additionally, an eco-friendly interior constructed using recycled materials adds to the vehicle's attraction. Another advantage is its zero-emission powertrain, making it an ideal choice for environmentally-conscious buyers.
However, on longer trips, the ID.Buzz's somewhat limited range is a significant disadvantage, making it a less desirable choice for frequent travelers.
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class: A Viable Alternative
As a frequent competitor to the ID.Buzz, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class boasts a larger variety of models and a greater level of interior flexibility. With three different lengths, the V-Class caters to larger families or commercial users. Furthermore, the V-Class offers a more premium interior, filled with polished wood, aluminum, and other upscale materials. The current price is around €59,000 (€63,000 in Austria, depending on the model variant and subsidies).
Compared to the ID.Buzz, the V-Class feels more luxurious and practical for many buyers, despite its higher price point. In making their electric vehicle purchase, potential buyers might find it worthwhile to consider both the Volkswagen ID.Buzz and the Mercedes-Benz V-Class.
[1] https://www.hybridcars.com/news/2022-nissan-leaf-earthday-edition/[2] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-05-04/tesla-sales-take-a-dive-as-the-world-wakes-up-to-competition[3] https://insideevs.com/news/540903/tesla-model-3-long-range-under-300kwh/
- Even though the Volkswagen ID.Buzz has struggled to meet sales expectations, other electric vehicles in the same price range continue to thrive, such as those in the Mercedes-Benz V-Class lineup that offer more flexibility and a premium interior.
- As the VW ID.Buzz's sales number underperforms expectations, some consumers might shift their attention to other lifestyle options, such as technology advancements in electric-vehicle development, which are revolutionizing the automotive industry.
