Volkswagen introduced the ID Buggy concept
at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, and the company reportedly had plans to put it
into production. However, those plans collapsed following the bankruptcy of
e.Go Mobile which was tapped to build the model in limited numbers.
While it’s sad the model has reportedly
been canceled, all isn’t lost as Car Magazine is reporting Volkswagen has
decided to build an electric off-roader that will draw inspiration from the ill-fated
Buggy. That being said, the project isn’t all-new as it reportedly dates back
to around 2016 and has been codenamed the RUV for “rugged utility vehicle.”
The model is said to be a “pet project” of
Herbert Diess and will reportedly go into production in 2025. Little is known
about the vehicle at this point, but it’s being described as a niche model
which is sort of like an electric Land Rover Defender. However, it would be far
more affordable and aimed at the “young outdoors and lifestyle crowd.”
There’s no word on specifications at this
point, but it would presumably ride on the MEB platform and use at least two
electric motors to give it all-wheel drive. It’s also said to incorporate some
styling elements from the canceled Buggy. Car refers to the model as the
“Ruggedzz,” but they suggest its future isn’t set in stone as it could
potentially become a Skoda. That would rule out U.S. availability, but it could
free up Volkswagen to build a modern day version of the 181 / Thing called the
Junglezz. It appears the company might already be moving in that direction as a
concept is rumored to debut next year.
