Volkswagen is preparing a major overhaul of the ID. Buzz, with a second-generation version expected to address one of the biggest problems facing the retro-inspired electric van: its price. The news comes after Volkswagen pulled the plug on the 2026 ID. Buzz in the U.S. and Canada.
Despite generating considerable excitement when it was first revealed, the ID. Buzz has struggled to turn that interest into strong sales. Inventory has piled up at North American dealerships.
Now, Volkswagen brand CEO Thomas Schäfer has confirmed that a redesigned ID. Buzz is in development, with significant changes planned to make the electric minivan more affordable and competitive.
New platform promises lower costs and faster charging
Speaking at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, as reported by Auto123, Schäfer acknowledged that the current ID. Buzz is built on the “wrong cost base,” something Volkswagen intends to correct with the next generation.
The biggest change will be a move away from Volkswagen’s existing MEB platform to its new Scalable Systems Platform (SSP).
The new architecture is expected to introduce 800-volt technology, potentially reducing charging times from 5% to 80% to approximately 12 minutes under ideal conditions.
Volkswagen is also considering lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to reduce manufacturing costs, while improved efficiency could deliver more driving range.
Another important upgrade could come from Volkswagen’s joint venture with Rivian. The next-generation ID. Buzz is expected to benefit from the companies’ new electrical architecture, allowing for more advanced software features and over-the-air updates.
Physical buttons make a comeback
Volkswagen isn’t planning to abandon the ID. Buzz’s recognizable design, but the interior will receive some welcome changes.
The company plans to replace its controversial touch-sensitive controls with physical buttons and dedicated switches, addressing complaints about usability.
The current ID. Buzz is expected to return to North America for the 2027 model year with updates before the redesigned version arrives closer to the end of the decade.
For Canadian buyers, the biggest question will be pricing. The current ID. Buzz launched at a premium price, limiting its appeal despite its distinctive styling and spacious interior.
A more affordable replacement could give Volkswagen a better chance of turning the ID. Buzz into the mainstream electric family vehicle it was originally intended to be.
Related Articles:
- VW pulls the plug on 2026 ID. Buzz in the U.S. & Canada
- Volkswagen Canada unveils the 2025 ID. Buzz, price starts at $77,495
- VW delays new electric models in the U.S. until later this decade
- Volkswagen Unveils New ID. Tiguan to Replace ID. 4
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