Test drive report VW E-Caravelle: Space shuttle with electricity

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Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

When it comes to comfortably transporting many people from A to B, the VW Caravelle is often the first choice for shuttle services. In the new generation, the large-capacity vehicle also runs electrically.

If you want to see minibuses in commercial use, a trip to major airports is recommended. Almost every second, small buses pull up there to pick up flight attendants, tour groups, or business people. Since the trips to hotels or convention centers are usually not too long, many shuttles now whir through the cities purely electrically. Range does not really play a role in such cases.

A market that VW would like to engage with more actively again. Although it is possible to carry up to six people in the ID Buzz, it's not really comfortable in the narrow rear of the electric vehicle.

A Caravelle, but not entirely VW anymore

With the introduction of the new transporter, there's also a Caravelle, now finally with an electric drive. It has taken long enough, which is why some commercial customers of VW have already moved to the competition. Mercedes, Peugeot, Opel, and many others have long been offering electric minibuses, sometimes simply and practically equipped, but also with leather seating and comfort features as VIP vehicles.

However, the new Caravelle is no longer based on Volkswagen technology but is essentially a modified Ford Tourneo Custom with a VW look. This does not change its qualities: From the digital cockpit to an entire array of electronic driving assistants—in terms of technology, connectivity, and operation, the new VW Bus is no less than modern passenger cars.

ID Buzz competitor

Zeekr Mix—mix of bulli and van

At 5.05 meters or 5.45 meters (approx. 16,6 or 17,9 ft) in the long version, depending on the seating, between five and eight passengers are generously accommodated. Furthermore, a substantial amount of luggage can be stored, at least in the rear of the long version. So if, for example, an aircraft crew needs to be transported to the airport with bags and equipment, this should not be a problem thanks to the more than one meter long luggage compartment.

A small but important feature is missing

Depending on the driving profile and range requirements, customers can choose from three drives with 100 kW, 160 kW, and 210 kW power, priced between 55,480 euros (60.101,48 USD) and 59,000 euros (63.914,70 USD). A 64 kWh battery is mounted in the underbody, which is good for over 300 electric kilometers in all versions. Charging at the wallbox or normal urban charging points is done at eleven kW. A stop at the fast charger allows electricity to flow at up to 125 kW and should bring the battery from ten to 80 percent in about three-quarters of an hour.

Unfortunately, VW or Ford failed to equip the model with a 22-kW onboard charger. Since powerful AC charging stations are usually available at hotels, airports, and trade fairs, the usual waiting time for passengers could be optimally utilized.

For this, VW offers numerous options, from leather seats to a three-zone climate control system, in addition to the three trim versions to make the interior more homely. The Pan Americana model, starting at 60,000 euros (64.998,00 USD), takes it to the extreme by offering not just practical details like electrically adjustable seats for the driver and front passenger, but also plenty of visual adornments.

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Diesel remains available

The Caravelle offers an exceptionally pleasant driving experience. The fact that the vehicle, even in its most powerful version, doesn't leave black marks on the asphalt when you step on the accelerator is not a disadvantage for a shuttle. Rather, the acceleration can be well dosed, which accommodates the rear passengers with a pleasant, smooth driving style. Accordingly, the car is tuned more for comfort but is also well-damped, so the long body only briefly bounces on bumps.

Customers who can't commit to a fully electric vehicle can alternatively choose the classic diesel again. The TDI, also supplied by Ford, with a two-liter displacement is available in three power levels between 81 kW/110 hp and 125 kW/175 hp (starting at 43,945/52,294 euros). Alternatively, one could wait until early 2026. Then VW will offer the E-Hybrid, a gasoline engine with a plug-in capability, which should cover about 70 kilometers electrically (approx. 43 miles). This should suffice for local trips, and the combustion engine will take over on long distances. Expected cost: just under 53,500 euros (57.956,55 USD).

If the bus is to be more resilient, for example, as a construction site shuttle, VW again offers a seated version of the Transporter, with rubber instead of velour flooring, fewer USB ports, and other gadgets. The Transporter Kombi is available with the same engines and costs about 2,800 euros (3.033,24 USD) less.

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