Volkswagen confirmed a second-generation ID. Buzz is in development on its forthcoming SSP platform.
The company has not discussed battery chemistry, charging figures, range or launch timing.
The current ID. Buzz is expected to return to North America for 2027.
Volkswagen plans to replace the ID. Buzz with a second-generation electric van built on its forthcoming Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). Brand chief executive Thomas Schäfer confirmed the project, saying that development is underway.
The next model’s central task will be to make the electric van less expensive to build and buy – they already have styling and functionality built in. Schäfer stated that the current ID. Buzz has the “wrong cost base,” which makes it essentially impossible to achieve the sales volume Volkswagen wants. The van drew attention for its retro design, but that interest has not translated into the sales results the company hoped for.
Early on, delivery delays were the norm. Very soon thereafter, inventory began accumulating at North American dealerships.
Volkswagen expects SSP to help address the cost challenge. The platform is being developed for use across multiple Volkswagen Group models, which could spread development and production costs across more vehicles and brands. The architecture is also expected to improve range, charging speed, and software compared with the current van’s MEB underpinnings.
More affordable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are another possibility; however, nothing on the subject is confirmed. Reports have pointed to 800-volt technology and a charging time of about 12 minutes from 5 to 80% under ideal conditions, but these figures are speculative at best.
As mentioned, software could also change, potentially benefiting from Volkswagen’s joint venture with Rivian, whose work includes a new electrical architecture.
2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz | Photo: Matt St-PierreThe cabin may get a usability-focused update. The current model’s touch-sensitive controls have drawn criticism. Volkswagen interiors in some more recent models have brought back physical buttons, and adopting this approach would address a common complaint.
Volkswagen should keep the ID. Buzz name (Routan will likely never return…) and its distinctive character, with an evolved look. Design chief Andreas Mindt has said the company wants future vans to remain interesting but has also cautioned against repeating retro styling without change.
Before the redesign arrives, possibly in calendar-year 2028, the current ID. Buzz is expected to return to North America for the 2027 model year, following the cancellation of the 2026 model year in the United States and Canada. That would give Volkswagen another opportunity to keep the van on sale while it develops the replacement.
Source: DriveTeslaCanada
