Volkswagen will show a new concept model in Geneva called the Bulli, which is a development of the Microbus study from 2001. However, at 3.99 meters long, 1.75 meters wide and 1.70 meters tall, with a wheelbase of 2.62 meters, the six-seater compact is more compact than the its predecessor. Volkswagen claims that the interior is spacious enough for six passengers, with three seating up front and three at the back.
The boot volume is 370 liters, but it can be extended to 1,600 liters when the rear bench is folded. The Bulli can also be turned into a camper van, since the seat system can be transformed into a large reclining surface.
The minivan is fitted with a removable iPad in the center console that serves as an infotainment touchscreen, controlling functions such as Bluetooth hands-free telephone, navigation system and media center.
The concept is powered by an electric motor linked to a battery that enables it to cover up to 300 km (185 miles) on a single charge. The motor's output is 85 kW, while torque value is 270 Nm (199 lb-ft), available from the first push of the pedal. The lithium-ion battery has a maximum storage capacity of 40 kWh, with Volkswagen claiming that a complete recharge of the battery takes less than an hour when done at an electric refueling station.
The company said the Bulli Microbus accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h [62 mph] in 11.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph). The concept can also incorporate VW's petrol and diesel engines, with displacements between 1.0 and 1.4-liter.
Volkswagen doesn't say anything about the Bulli going into production, but admits it "has the potential to establish a new, fifth brand of people carrier next to the Caddy, Touran, Sharan and its large counterpart – the Caravelle".
By Dan Mihalascu
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12 Comments:
I especially like the shift in design language that accommodates for a more compact and responsible lifestyle while still being able to retain the versatility and design cues embodied in its larger predecessor. I was particularly please to see the how the designer was able to assimilate some of the external features found in current models into the concept making it more likely for this concept to become a reality. I know I'd buy it if it gets built. Maybe not in fuchsia though. I'm gonna have to give the dual tones a little more thought.
Another desirable microbus that VW won't build...How on God's green earth did the Aztec pass numerous panels for final approval, yet VW can't seem to get the Microbus built? I don't remember anybody that thought the 2001 concept was a bad idea to build. Here we go again with another appealing small people carrier with an electric power option and it will take YEARS to see it on the streets, if they ever get around to building it.
that's Ventura beach.
Yeah...what he (No.2) said...
Cool sidways knobs on the sides of the instrument binnacle. Just like a Chevy Corsica. Seriously, it was the only good idea in the whole awful car. GM was big on that sort of thing in the early nineties. My GM plastic minivan has flippers in that location that also work pretty well. I think Corvettes had something similar.
Couldn't agree more!
It's a damn shame - Most people liked the Early Concept but,
Yet they've fail to understand it..
And NO! - they didn't built a better car instead.
Peace
Build the 2001 concept VW and don't change a thing!
+1 on the 2001 concept - with tdi/manual setup!!!
Van are for trips, not commuting.......
The 2001 Minivan concept was just great and still is, doesn´t look outdated at all and could have become a legend. Everyone who saw that concept wanted one, I really don´t understand why they didn´t buil it.
This one looks good and as far as I´ve read in german magazines, it will be built.
Sweet! They've got to build it! I was in my VW dealership today, and my salesperson was complaining about the recent bland offerings from VW. Plus, they never get enough of the popular models. This model would be a hit, especially with the aging hippie generation. It pays homage to the old bus without being too retro. But I have to agree that I like the 2001 concept a bit more.
The 2001 concept was right on the money for our modern times and I wish VW would build it. The Bulli has no linage to the original type 2 other than the oversized VW emblem and the two toned paint job. There are enough modern mini vans out there for people to choose from. It would be great to see a modernized eco-friendly Westfalia for travel and extended road voyaging instead of just another commuter vehicle.
Nice to see that I'm not the only one wanting this , but in a different colour.
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