Electric Kombi? PHEV Volkswagen Multivan paves the way
An electrified version of the Volkswagen Kombi is getting closer – and the next stage in the journey is the Multivan eHybrid.
Based on the next generation T7 verison of the popular people mover, the new Multivan will have a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle option for the first time.
The Multivan eHybrid PHEV brings Volkswagen one step closer to an EV version of the Kombi, which the brand has already teased with the ID.Buzz, which is due to be unveiled (possibly as the ID.7) in the next year or so.
For now it’s up to the Multivan eHybrid to tell the hybrid story – and pave the way for a Kombi EV.
The PHEV is one of three powertrains the new Multivan will be offered with in Europe, where it’s just been revealed – and it’s by far the most interesting.
The more futuristic styling of the latest Multivan hides a 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo engine mated to an 85kW electric motor in its eHybrid guise.
The two combine to produce 160kW driving through a six-speed twin-clutch (DSG) gearbox.
There’s a 13kWh lithium-ion battery under a flat floor to lower the centre of gravity.
No word yet on the EV range or charging options.
The Multivan PHEV rides on Volkswagen’s familiar EQB architecture, which underpins vehicles as diverse as the Golf, Audi TT and Skoda Octavia.
Inside there’s a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.0-inch central infotainment screen. There’s also a head-up display, a first for a Volkswagen commercial vehicle.
The Multivan will also be fitted with a SIM to keep it connected to a mobile network, allowing the owner to monitor its position, cool or heat the cabin remotely and lock and unlock doors. The We Connect Plus system will be included for the first three years of ownership before reverting to a subscription.
Volkswagen Australia spokesman Kurt McGuinness confirmed the company’s local arm was very keen to get the new model down under.
“It’s currently under investigation for Australia, but naturally we’d love to offer it. T6.1 continues to set sales records this year, so we definitely see an appetite for a new T-model,” he said.
