Key Highlights
- Revealed sneak peek of the upcoming Volkswagen Transporter before its official launch.
- Based on the Ford Transit Custom, the Transporter will provide options for ICE, PHEV, and EV propulsion systems.
- Various body types will be on offer, featuring design cues from previous Transporter models.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has unveiled an early glimpse of its latest Transporter van. It will be modeled after the new Ford Transit Custom and will be equipped with ICE, PHEV, and EV powertrains. Set to succeed the T6.1, the new model draws design inspiration from historical VW vans. The front end carries elements reminiscent of the T6.1 in the headlights, while the front grille takes cues from the T5. Chief Designer Albert Kirzinger stated, “The front design of our seventh Transporter immediately conveys its belonging to the Bulli family and complements the Multivan and ID. Buzz duo.”
Depending on the variant, the new Transporter ranges between 198.1 and 214.5 inches in length. Buyers can select from 16-, 17-, and 19-inch wheels, with the largest size featuring a dynamic diamond-cut appearance. The design of the rear end will vary to cater to different customer requirements. Options include winged doors and a conventional tailgate with intricate C-shaped LED taillights.
“Consistency is key with Volkswagen commercial vehicles. The horizontal lines beneath the rear window and above the handle strip, framing the Volkswagen logo and extending into the taillights with utmost precision, are a prime example.”
– Albert Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Diverse Body Variants to Select From
According to Autocar, the upcoming Transporter will be available in multiple body styles, including a nine-passenger option, a panel van, a two-row ‘Kombi,’ and a tipper-style pickup. An anticipated Sportline model is also on the horizon, although Volkswagen has not yet confirmed its release. For the first time, the Transporter will not serve as the foundation for the new Camper van, as Volkswagen has opted to develop a brand-new Multivan model. While Volkswagen initially intended to produce a camper version of the ID. Buzz, the low demand for EVs has led the company to postpone these plans.
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As mentioned, the Transporter will be offered with various powertrain options. “Developing another platform for the same vehicle is not feasible. It’s too costly. Unlike the California, this vehicle doesn’t yield the highest margins per sale,” stated Carsten Intra, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. While the ID. Buzz is fully electric and the Multivan employs ICE and PHEV setups, the new Transporter will cater to a broad audience with a single base platform.
Electric, Plug-In Hybrid, Or Combustion – Options Galore for Buyers
Similar to the Transit, the electric Transporter is anticipated to offer a range of approximately 236 miles (as per the ambitious WLTP cycle) and deliver outputs ranging from 134 to 215 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid variant could potentially have up to 222 hp, while the diesel models might feature outputs of up to 148 horsepower mated to a manual gearbox. An automatic transmission paired with AWD is likely to be an available option. While VW could potentially offer diverse configurations or output levels compared to the Transit, this might incur additional costs that a commercial vehicle segment typically tries to avoid.
Associated
Discover Volkswagen ID. Buzz Arriving In The US With Three Trims, Numerous Color Options And Interior Finishes, Up To 335 HP
At last, Volkswagen has confirmed the specifics of the ID. Buzz, though the cost remains unknown.
Ford and VW have collaborated on vehicle development in the past to reduce expenses. For instance, the Ranger shares its foundations with the fresh Volkswagen Amarok, and the ID.4 has contributed its structure to the brand-new Explorer EV. “Despite their similarities, our product differs from [Ford]. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide, but we believe ours stands out. It has received positive evaluations internally, even at Ford, where it’s been deemed superior,” declared Intra. However, it’s anticipated to be pricier than the Blue Oval model’s £33,000 ($42,000) MSRP, with an estimated initial cost exceeding £35,000 ($44,600).
Reference: Autocar