At Siesta Campers we recently announced plans to add the VW ID Buzz camper to our fleet. This is the first electric campervan in our lineup and one of the world’s first ID Buzz camper conversions!
Our journey began with a single classic VW campervan more than 20 years ago and we’re very excited to explore what’s possible in the EV market in our transition towards sustainable and electric campervan hire in Portugal.
What is the VW ID Buzz?
The ID Buzz is a new, electric van from Volkswagen released in October 2022. This has been a long time coming and we’ve seen many different prototypes sent to taunt us over the years. The final version looks pretty much like the prototype released in 2015. It’s truly a rare thing to have a production model look like a prototype so this shows how VW are really pushing the design frontiers with this release.
What about the ID Buzz CAMPER?
This is where things get exciting! We chose to buy the ID Buzz 1st Edition which is not a Volkswagen factory ID Buzz camper version. Our in-house Siesta Campers team fitted a custom camping pod and added numerous other upgrades to create a very exciting ID Buzz camper conversion!
ID. Buzz CAMPER!
For our ID Buzz camper conversion, we decided to go with the 5 seater variation of the Buzz due to the fact that the seats folded out perfectly flat and we saw this as an opportunity to use as a base for a fold out bed system. The components are kept in a bag under the seat when not in use and the bed folds down in less than 3 minutes. The sumptuous fabrics match the stylish Buzz interior and memory foam cushions make for a great night's sleep. We will be looking at using a VW style rock-n-roll bed in future versions of our Siesta Buzz. Currently, it looks like we have to wait until later in 2023 for the LWB (long wheel base) version which will allow a lot more room for a traditional VW California style conversion.
We worked with our partners over at Egoe to come up with an ID Buzz camping pod. Egoe have been building camping pods since 2015 and are Red Dot Design winners. With this collaboration we managed to incorporate a 20L fresh and waste water system, a 2 ring gas cooker, washing up bowl plus a cold water tap that features a plug in shower attachment. We’ve also installed a Dometic 25L compressor fridge. The power supply comes from a stand-alone lithium battery pack that can be charged via the vehicle's 12V system. We’ve also added a fold-out 100W solar panel to keep your leisure battery charged.
ID Buzz camper conversion
Can you sleep in the ID Buzz?
Our VW ID Buzz camper will be suitable for camping and overnight trips. The folding seats and leveling mattress will offer enough space for 2 to sleep comfortably. The custom built slide-out camping pod will provide everything needed to prepare and store food. A variety of extras will be available to make the most of camping experience.
Where can I rent the ID Buzz?
Our first electric campervan is available for hire in Faro and Lisbon.
The VW ID Buzz hire cost?
The ID Buzz hire will cost between 100€ to 250€ per night depending on seasonality and rental duration. We’ll also offer a variety of optional extras and upgrades to make the most of camping in this exciting electric VW camper.
Does the ID Buzz have an electric or hybrid motor?
The ID Buzz has an all electric powertrain and will come with either rear-wheel (RW) or all-wheel drive (AWD) versions.
What is the VW ID Buzz driving range and battery charging time?
An estimated driving range of the entry level VW ID Buzz is about 330 km’s (205 miles). Our ID Buzz 1st edition has an estimated range of 415 km’s (258 miles). We found during our own testing the driving range is between 300-350km depending on driving style and road conditions. The 200bhp rear mounted electric motor is powered by a 77kWh battery. According to VW, charging the ID Buzz from 5 to 80 percent will take 30 minutes when using a DC fast charger.
VW ID Buzz battery charging
Where can I charge my ID Buzz in Portugal?
The number of electric vehicle charge points in Portugal is quickly increasing. However, many different providers means many different charge cards. At Siesta we aim to have charge accounts with all of the different energy operators so our customers can settle the final charging account with us directly at the end of their campervan holiday.
We also believe in staying at the wonderful campsites that Portugal has to offer. With an overnight stay your van should be ready to roll another 415km the next day. Please check out our recommendations for the Best Campsites in Portugal. We have negotiated some amazing discounts for Siesta customers.
What about the ID Buzz California model?
The ID Buzz California camper will feature a pop top roof to create additional sleeping space for a total of 4 passengers. We expect the ID Buzz California to arrive in 2025. However, watch this space as we may develop our own pop top version of the ID Buzz before VW make their production model. Give us a follow on instagram and facebook for all the exciting news surrounding this iconic van.
VW ID Buzz California with pop top roof
Camping in an electric VW bus
The wait for this game changing electric VW bus is over and we cannot wait to share the experience of ID Buzz rental with our customers. Just as we imagined, when our first ID Buzz campervans hit the road in 2023, they turned many heads just as our classic campervans have done for many years. Are you ready for electric campervan hire? The future may be electric, but the vibe remains the same so, slow down, go wild and be loved.
Which version of the ID. Buzz can I rent?
At launch, Siesta Campers will offer a custom version of the ID. Buzz 1st Edition. This is the top of the range model.
What is the Volkswagen ID Buzz 1st edition model?
To create the hype VW have released the first edition as a collectors edition. We’re not sure what sort of person collects electric vehicles but who are we to question their marketing strategy? It features massive 21” inch alloys, the bigger 12” infotainment screen including a full range of safety, security and convenience extras as well as comfort seats.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz 1st Edition
What is the VW ID Buzz price?
Volkswagen released the starting ID Buzz price at £57,115 in the UK. Our ID Buzz cost us €65,000 for the VW ID. Buzz 1st Edition in Portugal. Due to extremely high demand we only have limited units available.
What about the ID Buzz ‘Life’ and ID Buzz ‘Style’ versions?
The entry level ID Buzz Life trim comes with LED headlights, a heated windscreen removable storage and a 10-inch touchscreen. The upgraded ID Buzz Style trim gets LED headlights along with interior ambient lighting and a full-width light bar in the back.
ID Buzz interior
Where can I buy the ID Buzz?
At Siesta Campers we buy our campervans new and typically sell them after 2 years of use. Since Volkswagen’s official ID. Buzz California won’t be available until 2025, our conversions may be the closest best thing for quite a while. Please reach out to us if you’re interested in buying one.
VW ID Buzz specifications
For those who’d like answers to the more technical questions about the VW ID Buzz, the below section may be particularly useful. Let’s get right into it.
- Motor: All electric APP 310 permanent magnet brushless motor
- Power output: 201 PS (198 hp; 148 kW) (RWD)
- Drive train: RWD or AWD
- Battery type: 82 kWh lithium-ion (RWD; 77 usable)
- Acceleration from 0-100kph: 10.2 seconds
- Maximum torque: 310Nm
- Maximum trailer load: 1,000 kg
VW ID Buzz dimensions chart (mm)
The VW ID Buzz dimensions shown above are measured in Millimeters (mm). With a turning circle of just 11.1 meters the Buzz can easily steer through the narrow inner-city streets like those found in Portugal. Check back soon for more information about our launch of this reimagined Electric VW bus and follow along as we press on with our ID Buzz campervan conversion!