Volkswagen unveils BUDD-e concept minivan at CES

Making its world debut at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, the BUDD-e minivan concept represents Volkswagen’s view of the future of the family transport.

The zero-emission van is the first Volkswagen concept car based on the new Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB), which has been specifically tailored for the use of compact electric motors and high-performance batteries. 

The flat and space-saving battery with an energy content of 92.4 kWh is integrated into almost the entire vehicle floor of the BUDD-e, powering two electric motors driving both axles. 

The front motor produces 110 kW, while the rear produces 125 kW, resulting in a top speed of 112 mph with acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds.

VW estimates that the battery will deliver a real-world driving range of up to 233 miles (EPA), enabling the BUDD-e to be used as the primary car in a household. The battery can be charged either by plugging it into a power socket or using inductive charging. An 80 percent charge can be achieved in about 30 minutes at a charging power of 150 kW (DC).

While paying tribute to the classic T-series minivans, Volkswagen says the concept’s design sets its sights firmly on the immediate future.

In terms of length, the BUDD-e sits between the Touran and the Multivan T6, although it is wider than both, and the MEB platform has enabled the designers to optimise its interior dimensions.

The heating and air conditioning unit system has been completely integrated in the front end of the car, creating more space for front seat passengers while at the same time improving acoustics thanks to a reduction in fan noise.

The BUDD-e becomes part of the Internet of Things, offering networked access to your home or your workplace. Equipped with next generation Infotainment for a completely new method of intuitive operation and information processing, buttons and switches are replaced by touch and gesture controls while individual displays blend into large infotainment panels and rear-view mirrors make way for digital screens.

VW says the matrix of these new, interactive infotainment and operating systems gently launches passengers aboard the Volkswagen concept car forward - to the end of the decade.

The Consumer Electronics Show runs from 6-9 January.