Inspired greatly by the original launched by Meyers Manx in 1964, the concept, which Volkswagen claims is 70% production ready, is in fact based on the automaker’s dedicated MEB all-electric platform as per its ID designation, though with the option of rear-wheel drive or possibly even four-wheel drive.
Sticking to its roots, the ID Buggy boasts a two-seat layout with the option of a 2+2, and aesthetically boasts 3D oval LED head-and taillights, an LED Volkswagen logo, a two-tone Grey Tech Blue/Fern Green paint finish, targa roof bar with a removable black top and given its expected off-road use, an aluminium skidplates and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tyres. Ground clearance is rated at 239mm.
Measuring 4 046mm in overall length with a wheelbase of 2 649mm, height of 1 463mm and width of 1 889mm, the ID’s interior is a further nod to its predecessor with a similar paint finish to its exterior, although with a hexagonal steering wheel, bucket-seat covered with water-repelling Nappa leather, a digital instrument cluster, zipped storage areas and a minimalist design.
As mentioned, the ID’s biggest departure from the Manx is the switch to electric propulsion with the 62kWh battery pack producing a total of 150kW/310Nm, which allows for a claimed acceleration from 0-100km/h in 7.2 seconds, and a limited top speed of 159km/h. The claimed range is 250km/h on a single charge as per the WLTP requirements. So far, and despite being nearly production ready, expect a number of changes to occur if the green light for full-scale manufacturing is given.
