Volkswagen Launches More Affordable ID. Buzz Cargo

Volkswagen has added a new entry-level version to its ID. Buzz Cargo electric van range — and it’s aimed squarely at businesses looking for a cleaner, cheaper way to get the job done. It’s called the ID. Buzz Cargo Commerce, and it comes with a smaller 59kWh battery, a slightly shorter range, and a more attractive starting price of £35,960 (excluding VAT).

With the Government’s Plug-in Van Grant still live until the end of March, buyers can knock another £5,000 off that price — meaning the van can be had for as little as £30,960 if you order in time.

So what’s changed? And is it still a practical choice for businesses?

Smaller battery, same practicality

The headline figure is the 59kWh battery, which is down from the 77kWh unit found in pricier models. That drops the official WLTP range to around 200 miles, but for many urban and short-haul delivery drivers, that’s still plenty for a full day’s work.

The good news is that all the practical bits stay the same. The load bay still offers up to 3.9 cubic metres of space — enough for two Euro pallets — and the payload capacity remains at 692kg. You also get 1,000kg of towing capacity, which is decent for an electric van at this end of the market.

So while the battery is smaller, the van itself is no less useful. And because it’s lighter, it may even feel a touch nimbler on city streets.

Still quick to charge

The Kia PV5 features a front-mounted electric motor delivering 163PS (161bhp) and 250Nm of torque. While it won’t be the fastest van on the market, it prioritises efficiency and practicality over outright performance, making it well-suited for urban and motorway driving. Kia is offering three battery options: 43.3kWh for city use, 51.5kWh for a balanced range, and 71.2kWh for maximum 248-mile range. Charging has been optimised for business needs, with a 10-80% fast charge taking just 30 minutes, minimising downtime for fleet operators.

Standard kit still generous

Volkswagen hasn’t stripped back the equipment list either. The Commerce trim includes a long list of kit that’ll make life easier for both drivers and fleet managers:

  • 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment with Ready 2 Discover system

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

  • LED headlights

  • Three front seats with a heated driver’s seat

  • Front and rear parking sensors

  • Sliding doors on both sides

  • Wooden floor in the load area and LED lighting in the back

  • USB-C ports throughout the cabin

There’s also a fixed bulkhead behind the seats to keep the cabin separate from the load bay — something many businesses will appreciate.

Why now?

It’s no coincidence that this cheaper version of the ID. Buzz Cargo has arrived just before the Plug-in Van Grant comes to an end on 31 March 2025. Once that’s gone, the list price jumps back up to £35,960 before VAT, so anyone thinking about switching to an electric van has a narrow window to save £5,000.

The ID. Buzz Cargo was already picking up praise — including Electric Van of the Year in 2023 — but its price made it a bit of a stretch for smaller operators. This new version brings it closer to the mainstream and makes it a more viable alternative to diesel vans, at least for urban and short-distance use.

If you liked the idea of the ID. Buzz Cargo but couldn’t quite justify the price, this new entry-level model makes the whole package a lot more tempting. It’s still got the looks, the practicality, and the comfort — just with a slightly shorter range and a much smaller price tag.

But don’t hang about. With the Government grant ending soon, this is one of those rare chances to grab a new electric van for less than £31k. After that, it’s back to full price.

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