Disappointed is an understatement on this one. The car market in general is crazy as ever, and EVs are huge these days. VW is well aware of this, and with successes like that of the new Ford Bronco, it's prime time to bring back an old classic like the bus.
According to Volkswagen, the "ID.Buzz" will arrive at U.S. dealerships sometime in 2024, and it's a very cool ride by all acounts. I'd drive one in a heartbeat. That's not the problem. The essence of the van has been destroyed if you ask me. That's because of the sticker price, 40k on the low end. The original van represented freedom, basic transportation, and affordability; and this is quite the stretch from those origins. As it is with most any brand new car these days (Jeep Grand Wagoneers are in the 100k range!?!) with dealership markup and preoder options, this will inevitably become a status symbol reserved for those with wealth beyond the typical American. It's gotten to the point where I'm not sure I will ever be in a position to buy anything but a used vehicle, and with what's new these days I don't think I mind!