Volkswagen faces ongoing challenges from the #dieselgate scandal, yet the unveiling of its Budd-E Concept at CES takes a nostalgic approach, reminding us of the brand’s roots associated with peace and joy, a time long before climate change became a pressing issue for society. The Budd-E Concept not only showcases a vehicle expected to be released sometime before 2020, but it also features the Modular Electric Toolkit (MEB), a new platform that expands on the existing MQB (used for the Golf) and MLB (found in Audi’s mid-sized sedans and Porsche Macan) architectures.
Notably, the Budd-E boasts both front and rear electric motors with all its batteries situated in the floor, allowing for a sleek design. This vehicle is smaller than a standard Microbus, measuring approximately three-quarters the size of a Honda Odyssey, which aligns with Volkswagen’s current offerings of sedans, hatchbacks, and compact SUVs.
In terms of specifications, Volkswagen claims a robust 101-kWh battery that can achieve 373 miles on a single charge. For comparison, Tesla’s Model S has a maximum capacity of 90 kWh. Additionally, Volkswagen asserts that the Budd-E can recharge to 80% in just 15 minutes. The top speed of the vehicle is estimated at 93 mph, significantly faster than the original 40hp Microbus from the 1960s. Acceleration to 60 mph in around 10 seconds is likely achievable, making it substantially quicker than the 30-year-old Syncros still seen in the American Southwest.
The featured model included advanced controls that allow drivers to interact with the Budd-E via voice commands. Notably, the car can recognize the driver from outside, presumably through a connection to a phone or wearable, enabling it to open the doors without traditional handles. The Budd-E also utilizes cameras in place of side mirrors, a technology reminiscent of Volkswagen’s innovative XL1.
Some technologies presented are feasible today. The Budd-E can recognize voice commands based on its placement of multiple microphones within the vehicle. However, distinguishing commands from different seating positions, such as from a child in the backseat versus an adult in the front, presents a unique challenge.
The Budd-E also features advanced gesture controls, allowing the driver to change functions and rearrange “tiles” on the digital displays on the dashboard. However, considering the complex electronics in the show car, questions arise about the potential costs and repair expenses if the vehicle fails to recognize gestures during extreme weather conditions.
But there’s no need for concern; the future promises that vehicles will be incredibly reliable.
In fact, we won’t have to wait long for many of these technologies to transition from concept to reality.
Volkswagen introduced the e-Golf Touch, an upgraded version of the existing e-Golf available in select states, as part of their showcase. Featuring a dual-display design similar to that found in the new Audi Q7, it enhances user interaction with the car. The Volkswagen Car-Net app can sync preferences when drivers enter any Volkswagen, allowing the car to learn about the driver’s routine and assist with navigation accordingly.
Volkswagen also indicates plans for a 2.0 update that would grant vehicles their own Twitter and Facebook accounts, permitting automatic status updates during drives, such as when caught in traffic on the way to dinner. While this innovation departs from the more laid-back ethos of the 1960s, Volkswagen’s significant presence at CES underscores its ongoing commitment to innovation.
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