By Sbu Mkwanazi

Volkswagen has a way of tugging at our heartstrings while nudging us into the future.

The ID. Buzz Cargo is proof. It is a panel van that channels the spirit of the Kombi but swaps petrol fumes for silent electric power.

It has not yet been confirmed for South Africa, with Volkswagen South Africa still studying feasibility, but it already has the world talking.

Underneath, it is all business. An 82 kWh battery powers a rear-mounted electric motor producing 150 kW and 310 Nm, delivering a driving range of around 420 km. Plug it into a 170 kW DC fast charger and the battery can be replenished from 5 percent to 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes, quicker than a typical lunch break.

Cargo capacity stands at 3.9 cubic metres, with a payload of up to 1,000 kg. This makes it well suited to florists, plumbers, caterers or weekend DIY champions. In our case, it proved perfect for transporting much-loved bicycles.

Lower running costs compared to diesel will appeal to businesses, while private buyers are likely to be drawn to its personality. That familiar Kombi-inspired front end has a cheerful expression that is hard not to smile back at. The ID. Buzz Cargo is also a conversation starter, blending eco-friendly credentials with practicality and style.

It is not without its shortcomings. For a van of this calibre, the absence of a reverse camera feels like a notable oversight, as parking sensors alone are not ideal when reversing a boxy vehicle. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also feels out of step with expectations, and even basic items such as practical cupholders seem to have been overlooked. This is surprising for a vehicle designed around long shifts and delivery runs.

Ultimately, the ID. Buzz Cargo is less about brute force and more about rethinking what a work vehicle can be. It presents a fresh image for businesses that want to stand out, reduce running costs and embrace electric mobility. Until it arrives locally, it remains a vehicle that makes us smile, even from afar.