Some might argue that track testing of
non-performance vehicles leads to a ruined ride quality. Volkswagen is one of
the companies that begs to differ though, as it was recently spotted putting
the all-new T7 van through its paces on the Nürburgring. The prototypes that
became the focus of Carscoops spy photographers’ camera lenses had their side rear
windows covered up.
This could mean that VW was testing the
panel van version of the Transporter, which will launch alongside the
Multivan/Caravelle MPVs. Also, look closer at one of the prototypes’ right
front fender and you will see a charging port. This means the model we’re
dealing with here is the plug-in hybrid, whose specs remain unconfirmed. It
will likely pack a four-cylinder engine and a small electric motor, powered by
a battery pack.
When fully charged, the battery should
enable the T7 to travel in zero-emissions mode for a few tens of miles.
Mild-hybrid, gasoline and diesel powertrains are also in the pipeline, but a
fully-electric variant will likely not happen because VW will soon launch the
ID Buzz all-electric minivan.
The prototypes that were scooped in action
featured what seemed to be a longer roof-mounted wing compared to others that
we’ve seen over these past few months, and they rode on black wheels, shod in
slim tires. Aside from this, nothing seems to have changed, although the thick
camo prevents us from spotting the new design. Unless something unpredictable
happens, the 2021 T7 is expected to debut before the end of 2020 or early next
year, and it is understood that it will be sold alongside its T6 predecessor.
