A group of trainees from Volkswagen have come up with what must be the most efficient version of an already zero-emission electric ID Buzz minibus.
The 14 apprentices spent a year on increasing efficiency levels in the van, which had already reduced its environmental footprint by using some recycled materials such as old plastic bottles for interior parts, underbody panelling and wheel arch liners.
The focus of the conversion work was on further boosting sustainability as well as extending the range, mainly by improving aerodynamics. The vehicle was unveiled in May on the northern German holiday island of Sylt.
The stunt shows Volkswagen is still keen to maintain a clean image, almost a decade after the automotive giant was caught cheating on emissions tests in millions of cars worldwide releasing multiple times the legal limits of toxic gases linked to heart disease, asthma and other negative health effects.
Among the innovations of the one-off ID Buzz Green is a stronger focus on wood, notably in the floor and dashboard, as well as in the wheels with artificial wooden spokes.
A neat idea is the coffee machine that draws its energy from a specially installed solar roof. The roof not only supports the battery but also enables a range gain of up to 1,560 km per year. The standard ID Buzz can travel 474 kilometres on a single charge.
Equipment includes two e-bikes with wooden frames. Even the tailgate is partly made of wood. In contrast to many conventional show cars, the ID Buzz Green is fully drivable and functional. Although there are currently no sales plans for the vehicle, VW said the ID Buzz Green showed the potential of sustainable vehicle concepts.
