The Love Buzz
When the Volkswagen Type 2 – better known in our part of the world as the Kombi – rolled off the production line in the 1950s, it almost immediately became more than a simple delivery van or truck. It morphed into a symbol of freedom, adventure, and practical simplicity. It won a legion of fans worldwide with its unpretentious design and undeniable charm.
In van form, with its boxy silhouette housing an air-cooled rear-mounted engine tucked below the floor in order to maximise interior space, the Kombi’s straightforward, functional design made it a favorite for families, tradespeople, surfers, and campers alike. While its interior was sparse, it delivered versatility in spades, embodying a go-anywhere, do-anything ethos.
The Kombi’s popularity also soared during the 1960s, when it became synonymous with the counterculture movement. It represented the open road and discovery and earned a place in the hearts and minds of adventurers and dreamers. Even today, with prices for good examples easily hitting six-figures, the Kombi’s influence continues to resonate with new generations.
While the story of the Kombi isn’t only rooted in nostalgia (production of a Brazilian version of the Kombi only ceased in 2013), a high-tech 21st Century update certainly has helped one lucky New Zealand example.
Nearly 50 years after it rolled off the production line, and after a solid service career with the Dunedin Health Board, "KEV" (standing for Kombi Electric Vehicle) was recently given a second life on New Zealand roads after a complete conversion from fossil fuel to electric power.
KEV, says Volkswagen, proves that even the most iconic vehicles can evolve to meet the needs of a changing world, retaining its vintage charm while showcasing a commitment to sustainability.
But doner Kombis aren’t strictly necessary to drive a greener icon. Decades after its heyday, Volkswagen has taken inspiration from the Kombi and added a high-tech, electric twist. While KEV represents a lovingly restored classic, Volkswagen’s new ID. Buzz embodies the trusty Volkswagen van’s next chapter
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Arriving in the country to much anticipation, the all-electric ID. Buzz – which will be available in both lifestyle-focused and commercial vehicle guises – combines retro aesthetics with modern vehicle innovation.
The ID. Buzz retains a familiar shape: a capacious boxy frame, oversized Volkswagen logo, and nostalgic two-tone paint options make it a stand-out. But beneath its vintage-inspired exterior lies cutting-edge technology designed for modern driving.
Equipped with a powerful electric motor, the ID. Buzz delivers practicality and fun in equal measure. Its spacious interior is stylish and functional and features recycled materials, flexible seating configurations, and ample storage. The van is also loaded with modern comforts, including a digital cockpit, multiple charging ports, and even an optional panoramic glass roof that provides stunning views of the sky, with shading available at the push of a button.
For over 60 years, Volkswagen has been building memories on the road, and with the introduction of the ID. Buzz, that legacy continues into a new era. The fully electric van lineup ensures that the OG Kombi’s adventurous spirit is alive and well.
Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of KEV’s restored classic design or the cutting-edge capabilities of the ID. Buzz, one thing remains clear: the Kombi’s timeless essence will always inspire journeys to remember.