The electric microbus might soon have a little sibling. Volkswagen is considering adding a smaller, more affordable EV minivan that would sit below the ID.Buzz.
Is Volkswagen launching a cheaper EV minivan?
After launching on March 14, 2003, the Volkswagen Touran quickly became one of the most successful multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) in its class.
After celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2023, VW said it had sold over 2.6 million Tourans globally. Although it remains one of the top-selling vehicles of its kind in Europe, the MPV has lost its luster with the growing demand for SUVs over the past few years.
An updated, all-electric version could spark a comeback. Volkswagen is reportedly looking to add a smaller, cheaper EV minivan to replace the Touran. Sources familiar with the project told Autocar that Volkswagen recently brought back several MPV concepts from storage, hinting at what the new EV would look like.
One of the concepts was the BUDD-e from 2016, an electric minivan concept that was expected to be the first VW vehicle based on the MEB platform, which underpins its current ID lineup.
Although most details are still secret at this point, the new electric minivan is expected to draw inspiration from other concepts, such as the 2011 Bulli, as well as past models, like the 2014 Golf SV.
Volkswagen’s EV minivan could also debut with new features. Insiders claim VW is working on new sliding doors and seats to rival emerging Chinese brands like Zeekr.
Specs are also yet to be confirmed, but the ID.Buzz’s smaller sibling will likely ride on a new version of VW’s MEB+ or SSP platforms. Battery options are likely to fall within the 60 kWh to 80 kWh range, with both FWD and AWD powertrain configurations.
If Volkswagen goes through with it, the electric minivan could arrive by 2027 or 2028. With plans to drop the ID naming system, it could be the electric Touran replacement.
Several electric MPVs are already rolling out, particularly in China. Last week, we caught a glimpse of Hyundai’s first electric minivan, the Staria EV, after it was spotted on the road for the first time.
The ID.Buzz starts at around 55,000 euros ($63,000) in Europe and $59,995 in the US, so you can expect prices to start slightly lower.
Would you buy an electric Volkswagen Touran? You might have the chance soon. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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