VW reveals first details of electric T7 eTransporter: It’s not as sexy as an ID.Buzz but it can carry heaps of stuff
Volkswagen has shown off its next-generation T7 Transporter’s carrying capacities ahead of its official launch this September at Germany’s IAA show.
Set to be sold as both the new electric eTransporter and traditional diesel Transporter, the commercial van range is due on-sale in Europe in early 2025 and at an as-yet unconfirmed later time in Australia.
And if you’re wondering why you’d buy the van-maker’s latest eTransporter over the ID.Buzz with its glorious retro-styling, wonder no more.
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Instead of just one variant, the eTransporter can be ordered in two different body lengths and heights – a Kombi with two rows of seat and a dropside double cab. There will even be a six-seat version.
The standard transporter measures in at 5050mm long – 146mm longer than the van it replaces – while the wheelbase is now a very respectable 3100mm (+97mm).
The long-wheelbase eTransporter is huge, measuring 5450mm long – 128mm longer than before – with VW claiming more space in both vans for passengers and cargo. The standard van can now carry up to 5.8 cubic metres of space, with 1392mm between the arches (+148mm).
Perhaps more important for those who’ll use their van for work, or carry loads of kit for their active lifestyle or, even, have a large family with loads of luggage, is the eTransporter has a one-tonne payload – a significant improvement over the measly 608kg payload the ID.Buzz can haul.
That’s because the eTransporter is based on a proper van platform and shares the same architecture as the Ford Transit Custom that has been developed alongside as part of Ford and Volkswagen’s partnership that began with the Amarok-Ranger collaboration.
From the launch in Europe the most affordable all-electric eTransporter will come with an entry-level 54kWh battery that is combined with an 85kW electric motor.
If you need more range, or power, you’ll have to opt for the larger 83kWh battery that provides the choice of a 100kW, 160kW or 210kW electric motor. All versions feature a single motor that drives the rear wheels.
Later on an even more powerful dual-motor all-wheel drive versions is likely to arrive that could deliver hot hatch levels of performance.
Range figures will be released later but it’s thought the T7 e-Transporter with the single-motor version and biggest battery should be capable of covering more than 350km on a single charge.
The T7 will also come with a 12-inch digital instrument panel and a large 13-inch central infotainment screen on all models.
As well as being treated to big screens, drivers of the all-electric VW van will also get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto,and the van-maker’s latest safety tech including its most advanced autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assist.
Driver and passengers will also benefit from a wireless charging pad and up to seven charging points that include USB-C, USB-A and a 12-volt socket.
A 400-watt (230-volt) power hub can also be optioned to power larger electrical devices within.
