Volkswagen Rejects Claims That ID. Buzz Camper Van Will Be Too Heavy For Regular Driving License

一个ug. 19, 2023 2:29 PM ET byJarryd Neves Electric Vehicles /4 Comments

Earlier reports out of Europe suggested the camper van was delayed due to weight concerns.

Volkswagen representatives have denied any rumors that suggest the forthcomingID. BuzzCalifornia camper van exceeds the weight limit for a standard European driving license. This comes after a report last week claimed thatweight caused a delayin the model's rollout.

In a statement toCarscoops, Volkswagen USA spokesperson Mark Gillies said, "Stories that the project is appreciably delayed [...] are incorrect." Reports out of Europe initially suggested that when loaded up with luggage and passengers, the ID. Buzz camper van would weigh more than the 7,700-pound maximum limit.

German publicationEdisonclaimed this had caused a delay in the development process, with VW reportedly having to look at new ways to save weight. However, VW representatives have quashed these rumors. It would be interesting to see just how heavy the camper variant would be, as the standard ID. Buzz is a heavy fella, tipping the scales at around 5,500 lbs (for the short-wheelbase model).

一个dding a bed, kitchen appliances, and other accessories, such as a roof tent, would make the ID. Buzz camper far heavier than it already is. However, Volkswagen may have considered this and developed lightweight components to compensate for the standard vehicle's curb weight. Of course, this would probably make it more expensive than its gas-powered predecessors.

Several organizations have spoken outagainst the weight of electric vehicles. The chair of the National Transport Safety Board (NTSB), Jennifer Homendy, stated: "I'm concerned about the increased risk of severe injury and death for all road users from heavier curb weights and increasing size, power, and performance of vehicles on our roads, including electric vehicles."

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has even suggested thatspeed limits nationwide should be lowered, as heavy EVs can potentially cause more significant damage when involved in collisions with smaller vehicles.

Industry leaders have also acknowledged that new EVs are too heavy. In a recent interview, Stellantis' Chief Technology Officer Ned Curic said he's frustrated by the unnecessary mass of modern electric vehicles, noting thatexcessive weight goes against sustainability goals.

With this in mind, we trust Volkswagen has already looked at various weighs to trim the fat from their new camper van. The German automaker isalready experimenting with a compositethat can be 3D printed using liquid resins. The durable material weighs 60% less than existing composites and should fare better in an accident, as it can absorb more energy than conventional steel.