Summary
- Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz received positive feedback for its retro styling but some concerns were raised about its technical capabilities
- Despite initial skepticism, the ID. Buzz successfully completed a 189-mile road trip with a 234-mile range
- The journey included freeway and country roads, and the van returned 2.7 miles per kWh
- Concerns over charging infrastructure and range were addressed during the trip
- The author concludes that EVs are suitable for long-distance travel, but infrastructure improvements are still necessary.
Article
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, despite its retro styling, has some technical limitations such as an un-aerodynamic body, high curb weight, and relatively low rated range. However, when put to the test on a road trip from Columbus, OH to Detroit, MI, the van performed better than expected. With a single motor, RWD unit and a 91 kWh battery, the van has an EPA rating of 234 miles and a price tag of $66,040. The journey of 189 miles saw the van maintaining an average speed of 64 mph and returning 2.7 miles per kWh, showing it can handle long drives effectively.
The journey from Columbus to Detroit presented some challenges due to the cold weather and increased energy consumption. However, the ID. Buzz performed well, covering the full 189-mile distance with 40 miles of range left upon arrival. The battery was at 14% when returned to the fleet company, indicating a potential total range of 229 miles, just slightly lower than its advertised rating of 234 miles. Despite some concerns about the range and charging infrastructure, the van demonstrated its capabilities on the road trip.
The author dispels the notion that long-distance driving in an EV is not yet practical or ready for prime time. With advancements in charging infrastructure and range capabilities, EVs like the ID. Buzz are becoming more viable options for road trips. The ability to cover roughly 200 miles in one sitting is sufficient for many drivers, with the potential to continue on longer journeys with a short charging stop. The van’s performance on the journey suggests that EVs are capable of meeting the needs of most drivers for everyday trips and occasional road trips.
While there are still challenges with charging infrastructure, the author emphasizes that progress is being made in expanding the availability of DC fast chargers along major routes. The ID. Buzz and other EVs have shown that they can handle substantial distances with proper planning and access to charging stations. The focus should be on improving the charging network and educating drivers on EV capabilities rather than solely increasing range. Overall, the road trip experience in the ID. Buzz highlights the evolving landscape of EVs and their potential for long-distance travel in the near future.
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