Automotive
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz should have been an easy success story. After all, who wouldn’t love the idea of a modern, all-electric interpretation of the iconic VW Microbus, complete with retro styling, a spacious interior, and plenty of personality? Unfortunately, the reality has been considerably less exciting, especially when it comes to sales. As we discovered in recent report from Auto Express, Volkswagen is finally acknowledging one of the biggest problems facing its quirky electric van: it’s simply too expensive for what it offers. The good news is that Volkswagen isn’t giving up on the ID. Buzz just yet, with plans already underway for a second-generation model that could address its biggest shortcomings, including pricing, driving range, charging speeds, and technology.
The sales numbers certainly explain why changes are needed. During the third quarter of 2026, Volkswagen sold just 432 ID. Buzz vans in the United States, representing a staggering 82.5% decline compared with the same period last year. That makes it the brand’s slowest-selling model in America, a disappointing result for a vehicle that generated so much excitement before its arrival. Starting at approximately $61,545, the ID. Buzz asks buyers to spend luxury SUV money on an electric van offering a maximum EPA-estimated driving range of just 234 miles. While its styling and interior flexibility remain appealing, those numbers make it difficult to justify against more affordable family vehicles and electric SUVs offering substantially greater range. Volkswagen brand CEO Thomas Schäfer recently acknowledged the pricing problem during an interview with Auto Express, admitting that the ID. Buzz is built around a cost structure that makes it difficult to compete successfully in higher sales volumes.
Fortunately, Volkswagen appears determined to get things right the second time around. The company is reportedly working on improvements for the existing ID. Buzz while also developing an all-new replacement based on its upcoming Scalable Systems Platform, better known as SSP. Unlike the current van’s MEB architecture, SSP is being engineered to support a new generation of Volkswagen Group electric vehicles with improved efficiency, faster charging capabilities, and more advanced software. Just as importantly, the platform will be shared across numerous models, potentially reducing manufacturing expenses through greater economies of scale. Volkswagen is also considering more affordable lithium-iron phosphate batteries, commonly called LFP batteries, which could help bring the purchase price down without sacrificing the practicality that makes the ID. Buzz so appealing. Those improvements could make a significant difference for buyers who love the vehicle’s appearance but haven’t been able to justify its current price.
We still think Volkswagen has something special with the ID. Buzz, and it would be a shame to see such a distinctive vehicle disappear simply because the pricing and technology weren’t competitive enough at launch. There aren’t many vehicles on the road today that generate the same smiles and attention as this retro-inspired electric van, but nostalgia alone isn’t enough to convince families to spend more than $60,000. A next-generation ID. Buzz with a lower starting price, substantially better range, faster charging, and improved technology could finally deliver on the promise that made the original concept so exciting. Volkswagen hasn’t announced a launch date or pricing targets for the redesigned model, and its new SSP platform isn’t expected to debut until later in the decade. Still, knowing the company recognizes the problem and intends to address it is encouraging. Now we just hope Volkswagen can preserve everything that makes the ID. Buzz charming while making it affordable enough for more people to actually enjoy.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
