The iconic VW ID. Buzz

At Siesta Campers, we added the VW ID. Buzz to our fleet as soon as it arrived in Portugal, drawn to its design, electric performance, and clear link to Volkswagen’s campervan heritage. As part of our ongoing evolution, we developed our own in-house conversion — marking our first step into electric campervan hire in Portugal and exploring how EV technology fits into the future of road trips.

What began more than 20 years ago with a single classic VW campervan has grown into a fleet that continues to adapt alongside the way people travel, balancing innovation with the freedom and character that have always defined the Siesta Campers experience.

What is the VW ID Buzz?

The ID Buzz is an electric van from Volkswagen released in October 2022. This has been a long time coming and we’ve seen many different prototypes 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 pushed 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 (Siesta Buzz), we decided to go with the 5 seater variation of the ID 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 camper?

Our VW ID Buzz camper is suitable for camping and overnight trips. The folding seats and leveling mattress offers enough space for 2 to sleep comfortably. The custom built slide-out camping pod provides everything needed to prepare and store food. A variety of extras are available to make the most of your camping experience.

Where can I rent it?

Our first electric campervan is available for hire in Faro and Lisbon.

How much does it cost to rent?

The ID Buzz camper costs between 60€ to 130€ per night depending on seasonality and rental duration. We 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. Charging the ID Buzz from 5 to 80 percent takes 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.

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 expected the ID Buzz California to arrive in 2025. However, that project has stalled. Recent reports say the ID.Buzz California won’t arrive anytime soon and development is currently on hold. 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

We recently put together a guide full of tips for electric campervan road trips in Portugal, perfect for anyone exploring the country in a sustainable, fun way. From managing charging stops to finding scenic campsites and planning your route efficiently, our article covers everything you need to make the most of your adventure in an electric VW bus. Whether it’s your first time on the road in an EV camper or you’re a seasoned traveler, the experience is just as magical as with our classic campervans — only quieter, cleaner, and fully electric. Slow down, go wild, and enjoy the journey!

Which version of the ID. Buzz can I rent?

We 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 for a while, 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.