The "VW Bus" reborn for the modern era as the BEV has landed in Japan.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Volkswagen Japan has begun accepting orders for the all-electric (BEV) minivan, the "ID. Buzz." Deliveries are scheduled to begin in late July 2025.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi | Photographs by Volkswagen Japan

The Only BEV Minivan Available in Japan

The "ID. Buzz," born in the modern era while inheriting the heritage of the "Type 2," affectionately known as the "VW Bus," is finally going on sale in Japan.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz — The "ID. Buzz" (left) and the "Type 2," affectionately known as the "VW Bus" (right)

Following the Volkswagen "Beetle" (Type 1), which began mass production in 1945, the "Type 2" started mass production in 1950. With its reinforced chassis complementing the Beetle's technology, and its unique packaging, it remains a beloved vehicle not only in Germany but also in countries like Japan.

The "ID. Buzz" is the successor to the concept of the VW Bus, which is still considered a representative classic Volkswagen model, brought into the modern era. It is currently the only minivan-type BEV available for purchase in the Japanese market.

The "ID. Buzz" is positioned as the second model in the ID. family, following the SUV BEV "ID.4" which was introduced earlier, and is based on Volkswagen's MEB (Modular Electric Drive Matrix) platform.

The exterior retains iconic design elements such as short overhangs, an oversized VW logo on the front fascia, and two-tone body colors. It also incorporates modern features like a V-shaped front panel between the LED headlights.

The models available are the "Pro," a 6-seater with normal wheelbase and a walkthrough to the second row, and the "Pro Long Wheelbase (LWB)," which extends the wheelbase by 250mm and accommodates 7 passengers in a 2-3-2 layout.

The cargo space in the "Pro LWB" is up to 2,469 liters, and with removable third-row seats, various configurations are possible.

While the original VW Bus was powered by a small, rear-mounted flat-four gasoline engine, the "ID. Buzz" is driven by an electric motor producing a maximum output of 210 kW (286 hp) and a maximum torque of 560 Nm, powering the rear wheels.

Integrating the battery into the floor contributes to excellent weight distribution and a low center of gravity. The battery capacity is 84 kWh for the Pro and 91 kWh for the Pro LWB. The cruising range according to WLTC mode is 524 km for the Pro and 554 km for the Pro LWB.

Charging capability includes support for DC fast charging between 140 kW and 150 kW, enabling quick charging and enhancing convenience when on the go.

Safety features include the latest driver assistance systems as standard. Optional features include a panoramic glass roof with one-touch dimming and a luxury package combining a premium sound system.

The body is available in six colors, including optional premium colors. The price is ¥8,889,000 for the "Pro" and ¥9,979,000 for the "Pro LWB."

Brand Exhibition Featuring the ID. Buzz

Volkswagen Japan will hold the "Volkswagen Brand Exhibition" in three locations—Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka—showcasing Volkswagen's model lineup alongside the unveiling of the Japanese specification ID. Buzz. (The Tokyo event was held June 21-22). At each venue, in addition to displaying the latest Volkswagen models, visitors can participate in a vehicle quiz for a chance to win exclusive Volkswagen merchandise.

Volkswagen Brand Exhibition Overview
Osaka Venue
Dates: Friday, July 4, 2025, 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Saturday, July 5, 2025, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Venue: Grand Front Osaka Knowledge Plaza, 3 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
Nagoya Venue
Dates: Saturday, July 12, 2025 - Sunday, July 13, 2025, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Venue: JR Tower Event Space, JR Gate Tower, 1-1-3 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
Event Contents
First display of the ID. Buzz (Japanese specification) and Golf R Black Edition
Display of the full Volkswagen lineup
Raffle draw through Volkswagen quiz