Retro yet high-tech VW minibus might cost P3.5 million

MANILA: Volkswagen’s commercial arm has reimagined this Kombi-like unit and released this concept vehicle, an all-electric unit with zero emissions and uses the automaker’s latest drive system for electric vehicles (EVs). It’s called the e-BULLI.

It is actually based on the T1 Samba Bus that was produced in 1966 but to most Filipinos it looks like the Kombi that was common on the streets of Manila in the '70s and '80s.

This concept, according to Volkswagen, is actually what it will really look like at the dealership. It is “the combination of high-end classic and high-tech electric vehicle” that will “be available to buy for real”. In short, what you see is what you get.

Gone is the 44hp four-cylinder engine. It now has a 45 kWh battery that powers the electric motor. Output is 83hp and 212Nm of torque straight to the brand’s one-speed gearbox. Top speed is 130kph.

Sporting an all new chassis, it also features redesigned multi-link front and rear axles with adjustable shock absorbers and coilover struts, a new rack-and-pinion steering system, and four internally ventilated disc brakes.

Headlamps sport LED technology and comes with daytime running lamps, plus the rear also has LED change indicators.

The cabin has also been updated. It comes with a two-tone paintwork finish in Energetic Orange Metallic and Golden Sand Metallic Matte. The seats also get two colors, Saint Tropex and Saffrano Orange’ It has a Start/Stop button, solid wood on the floor, and has a large panoramic folding roof.

While the speedometer takes after the original, it has a two-digit display that displays range among other pertinent driver info.

There’s a retro-style radio that has Bluetooth and USB connectivity pumping music to discreetly-placed speakers and a subwoofer.

Also read: Volkswagen to use AR goggles to design future cars