I.D. Buzz Archives

New Beetle could be an EV and look similar to original

There might be some good news for classic Beetle fans in the near future. Volkswagen’s Chairman Herbert Diess, admitted to Autocar UK in an interview that “The next decision on electric cars will be what kind of emotional concepts we need”.

He was referring to the idea of using VW’s modular platform called MEB (Modular Electric Baukasten) to underpin future models like the Microbus and Beetle. The former, which was previewed as the ID Buzz Concept, will be put into production by 2022.

The Microbus is a modern interpretation of the original VW Bus and by using the MEB platform, they could place the electric motors at the rear, mimicking the original’s engine and transmission layout. The same could be done for the Beetle if the company does decide to introduce a retro-modern one.

Utilizing this EV platform, the modern Beetle could sport similar traits and drivetrain layout that isn’t dissimilar to what the original car used. That said, Diess was quick to quash the idea that any solid plans have already been made about the future of the new Beetle.

What he did admit however, is that the new Beetle, if given the green light for production, will probably be an electric vehicle and will utilize the MEB platform. Evidently, the MEB can be used used to underpin a variety of different vehicles of various sizes and dimensions.

Though it will be sometime before we hear more about this, its comforting to know that the classic Beetle might get a reboot in the not so distant future. Despite several attempts in the past to recreate its success, VW has fallen short of enthusiasts’ expectations. Instead of starting from scratch, Volkswagen opted to use the Golf platform to underpin the Beetle.

Though ‘The Beetle’ and ‘New Beetle’ resembled the original somewhat, their engines were front-mounted and were also front-wheel-drive. But with MEB, the electric motors could be rear-mounted and as such, allow for design and cosmetic features that retain the essence of the original car.

Source:Autocar UK

VW to build direct descendant of the original Bus

Fans of the original VW Bus can rejoice because the automaker has decided to put the I.D. Buzz concept, a vehicle that’s loosely based on the ever popular people mover, into production. According to a recent article on Road and Track, The German automaker has seen it fit to give the project the green light.

The vehicle will utilise VW’s modular platform for electric cars or MEB and like Tesla, will have its battery pack stored underneath its floorpan. Interior space is said to be revolutionary with Volkswagen touting total volume to be similar to that of an SUV.

This was achieved through the clever use of space as well as the ability of the rear seats to be moved and adjusted to suit the occupants needs. Volkswagen will also be offering this people carrier as a cargo van too, which should make it a favourite among delivery companies.

As far as styling is concerned, the I.D. Buzz bears more than just a passing resemblance to the original Bus because the German automaker probably intends on the former being a reincarntion of the latter.

It sports the same tubular design with maximum emphasis placed on passenger and cargo space. Though the original had a rear mounted air cooled engine, the new one may have a central motor or individually mounted wheel motors.

Like most of the current line-up, the I.D. Buzz should feature a whole host of safety tech from pedestrian warning to emergency city stop systems. In addition to these, is the ability to drive without human intervention. That’s right, VW will be outfitting the car with autonomous driving.

If all this has you excited and anxious for its impending release, we’ve got bad news for you. Reports say that VW will only begin building it as late as 2022, which is still quite a long way off. But that said, we are thrilled that VW will eventually get around to building this amazing vehicle.

Source: Road and Track