Volkswagen has announced a series of updates for its entry-level ID. Buzz Cargo, bringing more power, range and a lower starting price.
The commercial version of VW’s funky reimagined van gets a new 58kWh battery which extends the range by 17 miles compared with the previous 59kWh unit thanks to improved cell efficiency. The basic ID. Buzz Cargo now has a range of 218 miles, giving it a 34-mile advantage over the entry-level Kia PV5, its closest competitor.
The new battery is the same unit found in other rrecently updated VW EVs and brings 105kW charging that should deliver a 10-80% charge in 26 minutes, allowing operators to get back on the road sooner.
The new battery is matched to a more powerful motor, which boosts the ID. Buzz Cargo’s output from 168bhp to 187bhp.
The new powertrain is only available in entry-level Commerce trim, which also brings a £5,655 price cut for business customers. The new model starts at £29,995 before VAT and, like the previous model, is also eligible for the £5,000 Plug-in Van Grant. That brings it closer to the PV5, which starts at around £28,000 before VAT or grants.
Higher-specification versions of the ID. Buzz Cargo remain unchanged, with a 79kWh battery and choice of a 282bhp rear-mounted motor or 345bhp all-wheel-drive setup.
All versions of the ID. Buzz Cargo also get a number of equipment upgrades. Vehicle-to-load functionality is now standard, allowing owners to power laptops, tools and other electronic devices from the van’s battery via a standard three-pin socket.
The van’s infotainment system has also been updated with the ID 6.0 Software. This includes an integrated app store allowing access to streaming, parking and charging services. The update also introduces Connected Travel Assist, which uses expanded online data to support driving functions. It can also now detect traffic lights and automatically bring the vehicle to a stop at red lights.
