Yahoo Autos Volkswagen Might Actually Build an Electric Microbus
Volkswagen has shown plenty of retro-inspired bus concepts lately-from the original Microbus show car of 2001 to the vaguely bus-shaped Budd-E of 2016-but the automaker has never actually committed to putting a modern minibus into production. Each time, fans were disappointed to find out the concept wouldn't become a production vehicle, but that could change soon. VW might actually be ready to build an electric Microbus somewhat similar to the I.D. Buzz concept that debuted at the Detroit auto show last week.
According to Automotive News Europe, there's a very real chance that the I.D. Buzz will hit production in 2022, thanks VW brand boss Herbert Diess. The Microbus concept is based on Volkswagen's new Modular Electric Drive platform, dubbed MEB, that's set to hit production in 2020 with the I.D. hatchback.
It's this electric platform that makes a retro Microbus a real possibility, per Automotive News. By packaging the batteries and electric motors low in the chassis, Volkswagen is able to make a car with the Microbus' iconic flat nose that still meets modern crash safety standards. The extra space afforded by the electric drivetrain will also allow the modern Microbus to be as practical as the original.
None of Automotive News' sources would confirm a Microbus on the record, but when questioned about the I.D. Buzz one unnamed VW insider said, "I know what you're going to ask and the answer is 2022. Diess wants it."
Of course, following its massive diesel emissions-cheating scandal, VW as a whole could use some image help. The German automaker has made electric cars a major part of its move forward-and a revival of one of its most beloved retro models would certainly earn it some goodwill.
Microbus fans will likely remain skeptical until such a vehicle hits dealership floors, of course. But it seems like the stars are finally aligning for the return of the Microbus.
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