Electric VW Kombi van makes Australian debut

An iconic machine will return to the road this weekend, as the electric successor to Volkswagen’s Kombi makes its local debut.

Peace, love and a charging station.

Pitched toward folks interested in a modern and green version of the classic vans favoured by hippies in the 1960s and 1970s – Volkswagen’s I.D. Buzz swaps the original’s rattling petrol engine for a silent electric motor paired with a large battery.

The electric Volkswagen I.D. Buzz on the Sea Cliff Bridge south of Sydney. Picture: Mitch Oke

Retro looks are central to the van, which matches the original car’s proportions and two-tone paint.

Full details for Australian features have not been confirmed, though premium models will cost more than $100,000.

The 2024 Volkswagen I.D. Buzz is an electric successor to the classic VW Kombi. Picture: Mitch Oke

UK vans have a rear-mounted 150kW motor linked to a 77kWh battery delivering about 415 kilometres of range.

The machine will be available in long or short wheelbase forms with a choice of five or seven-seat cabin layouts.

A two-seat tradie version with a cargo area in place of passenger seats is also on the way.

The car is available in tradie trim, or as a people mover. Picture: Mitch Oke

It will take on a new breed of battery-powered vans already offered by companies such as Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot and LDV.

The Buzz can reach 100km/hr in 10.2 seconds, and is capable of towing one tonne.

VW is reportedly working on a campervan model that includes a bed and kitchenette.

The new VW’s cabin is light and bright. Picture: Mitch Oke

Aftermarket companies in Europe already offer conversion kits to transform the Buzz into a weekend getaway car.

Potential customers can express their interest in the machine via the Volkswagen website, ahead of vehicles arriving in showrooms late next year.

The new machine will make its public debut alongside classic models in Cronulla. Picture: Russell Shakespeare

The van will make its public debut at the Cronulla Surf Masters championship on Saturday in Sydney, alongside dozens of VW Kombi classics at Peryman Square.

Originally published as Electric VW Kombi van makes Australian debut