Volkswagen ID Buzz Electric Van Conversions by iBestTravel

Americans seem eager to get their mitts on the Volkswagen ID Buzz electric van, and the fact that Europeans have been enjoying it for a couple of years doesn’t help any. However, this means that upfitters are already gaining experience and observing what the competition is doing with the Euro vans. Consequently, iBestTravel is hard at work with several modules ready to drop into U.S.-market ID Buzz vans as soon as American owners are handed the keys. By the way, these deliveries are expected to begin later this year, although allocation may be interesting. There won’t be a reservation system, and it’s not clear which dealerships will receive ID Buzz vans or in what quantities, but some vans may be delivered between November and January.

Where’s the Pop-Top?

But first—where’s the pop-top? iBestTravel states that it’s in the works. It will take time to line up a supplier that meets iBestTravel’s quality and federal safety standards. However, initially, no pop-top will be available.

Available Conversions

So, what is available? The least involved conversion is called the Buzz Box, following a general formula seen in European ID Buzz vans and similar models. It’s essentially a box that replaces the third row of seats and incorporates slide-out portions that contain a storage tank, a gas stove, a portable/collapsible sink, a 25-liter refrigerator, a light, general storage, and a cubby for the VW’s charge cord behind the fridge. The Buzz Box is powered by the ID Buzz’s 12-volt system, making it advisable to get a 12-volt battery monitor to keep track of the battery’s health and state-of-charge. Remember, EVs won’t start with a dead 12-volt battery, as most can’t utilize the main traction battery to power up. Note that the design isn’t completely finalized as of this writing, and small adjustments to features or design may occur.

Buzz Box Features

• DIY installation; simply remove the third row seats and pop it in.
• Weight: roughly 100 pounds, potentially as little as 70 if an aluminum frame is selected.
• Heavily weighted components such as the fridge are removable for easier installation or removal.

Buzz Box Sleeper

The larger Buzz Box Sleeper includes a fold-out (almost) queen-size mattress similar to the Ququq. This model definitely requires two people for installation, similar to the Buzz Box kitchen unit.

The Buzz Camper

Lastly, there’s the camper unit, requiring the removal of both the second and third row of seats. This results in a cozy space with a more permanent sink/stove cabinet installation behind the driver’s seat and an L-shaped settee with storage that converts into a bed. While the full specifications and contents are not finalized, it differs from older Westfalia-type configurations in that the seats can be utilized for travel. The Buzz Camper installation is performed by the iBestTravel team and is not a DIY job.

Pricing

Interested in a conversion? The Buzz Box retails for $7,995, while the Buzz Box Sleeper runs $10,995. Pricing for the less finalized full conversion isn’t available yet. A $2,500 refundable deposit will place you on the list for that option.