New VW Concept Shows Connected EV Platform

Volkswagen AG unveiled the Budd-e, a concept minivan built on its new Modular Electric Platform (MEB), last night at the CES consumer electronics show in Las Vegas. The concept also includes a host of new control, display and connectivity features VW Group is developing for future vehicles.

The MEB platform will allow next-generation electric vehicles to have the range, cost and utility needed for them to serve as a primary family vehicle, VW says. The group plans to launch a variety of MEB-based models across several of its brands beginning in 2019.

The Budd-e concept, which draws styling cues from VW’s iconic Microbus van, has an estimated real-world driving range in the U.S. of 233 miles or about 370 miles based on the European driving cycle, the carmaker says.  Power comes from a pair of electric motors—one at each axle for all-wheel drive—that produces a combined 225 kW and propels the Budd-e to a top speed of 112 mph.

A 101-kWh battery pack fits flat underneath the floor. VW says the design, which will be used on future MEB models, allows for larger battery packs and maximizes interior space.

The battery can be recharged to 80% of its capacity in 30 minutes (which VW expects to be cut to 15 minutes by 2019) via a 150-kW fast-charging port. Drivers also can wirelessly recharge the battery with an advanced inductive charging system that will be offered on upcoming VW and Audi EVs and plug-in hybrid models.

VW officials hint that a slightly toned-down version of the Budd-e could be one of the new EVs it’s planning. The concept van measures 181 inches long, 76 inches wide and 72 inches tall, which would slot it between the current Touran and Multivan T6 in VW’s lineup.

Inside, the instrument cluster and center infotainment displays are combined into a single curved display with three reconfigurable screens. Occupants can access functions by hand gestures, touch or voice commands, eliminating the need for traditional buttons, switches and gauges. Video cameras are used in place of rearview mirrors.

Cameras also can recognize when backseat passengers are rising to exit and signal the sliding side door to open when the vehicle is parked. From the outside, the power rear door can be opened by stepping inside a laser outline projected on the ground.

The Budd-e concept also is designed to connect with a host of other network-ready home and office devices, VW says. Another possibility envisioned by the carmaker is turning the vehicle into a mobile mailbox for package delivery, complete with an in-vehicle drop box with a digital code that can be accessed only by authorized personnel.