LA Auto Show 2018: VW Shows e-Bike, Cargo EV

Volkswagen Talks Electrification in LA

Volkswagen started out talking about the explosion of its U.S. SUV sales (rising from 18 percent to 46 percent of the VW product mix from 2017 to 2018), but quickly shifted gears to three unusual electric vehicles at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The stars of the show were an electric cargo bike and the concept I.D. Buzz Cargo, shown for the first time in the U.S. In a supporting role—and supplying some dramatically short video was the I.D. R race car that set the new record at Pikes Peak this summer.

The Buzz Cargo was presented trimmed out as a race support van, which was logical given it being adjacent to the I.D. R. It’s the panel version of the I.D. Buzz presented last year as the electric successor to the fabled VW Microbus’ Transporter model. The Buzz Cargo is build on VW’s common MEB electric vehicle architecture. Depending on battery pack size, it will offer up to 340 miles of range. The concept also features a solar roof and a digital cargo system. While  the concept version has a 201-horsepower rear-drive motor, it could be adapted to all-wheel drive like the original Buzz.

Volkswagen’s American CEO Scott Keogh said no commitment to production or bringing this model to the U.S. has been made for the Buzz Cargo, but if a “go“ decision is made, the van could be in production by 2022.  

The Smallest Volkswagen

Another VW was shown in LA was making its first appearance in North America—the VW Cargo e-Bike. The 463-pound total payload bike, currently only a concept, augments Volkswagen’s focus on showing a comprehensive electric solution to transportation issues, according to Keogh. The bike has a 250-kW electric motor to assist the rider. Designed for last mile delivery, it features two wheels in front with the cargo platform between them. Market introduction of the bike is expected in 2019. It’s the smallest vehicle ever from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.