Volkswagen briefly considered adding a gas-powered range extender to the ID. Buzz electric minivan. However, packaging limits and design constraints made the idea unlikely to move forward, VW Commercial Vehicles revealed.
Range Extender Idea Explored
In an interview, VW Commercial Vehicles head Stefan Mecha confirmed that engineers studied the possibility of a range-extending electric vehicle (EREV) setup for the ID. Buzz. This would involve a small gasoline engine acting as a generator to improve driving range and reduce charging stops.
However, the minivan’s short front overhang left no space for a combustion engine. The MEB platform used by the ID. Buzz, designed only for battery-electric vehicles, does not accommodate such an addition.
Why Packaging Was a Problem
- The front overhang on the ID. Buzz is very short, limiting engine compartment space.
- The MEB platform supports only fully electric layouts, used by over 20 models in the VW Group and partners.
- Other VW Group EREVs, like the ID. Era 9X in China, use separate platforms designed for a generator engine.
Market Impact and Future Plans
The ID. Buzz has seen strong sales in Europe but weak demand in the U.S., where only about 6,140 units sold. The modest 234-mile range and high starting price (around €56,000) have been factors.
VW opted to skip the 2026 model year in the U.S., citing general EV market conditions rather than range concerns. The ID. Buzz will return for 2027 with minor updates, including new exterior colors, wheel designs, and a Tourer version with camping features.
VW’s Broader Strategy on Range Extenders
Though not used for the ID. Buzz, VW is launching EREV models under its Scout brand in the U.S. from 2027. The upcoming SSP platform is also expected to support combustion engines as generators, likely debuting on an Audi model by 2028, and later on Porsche and Skoda vehicles.
Why It Matters
The ID. Buzz’s lack of a gas range extender limits its appeal for buyers worried about range. Still, VW’s continued commitment to improving the model and broader investments in flexible powertrains indicate a thoughtful approach to expanding electric mobility. For now, the pure battery-electric ID. Buzz remains the company’s focus.
Source: motor1.com