Recently, Volkswagen unveiled the long wheelbase variant of its highly anticipated electric minivan, the ID. Buzz, specifically designed for the United States market. The reveal made a huge splash and consumers are wondering if they will be able to pay for the vehicle without the ridiculous and expected dealership markups. Even though the price list has not been released yet, discussions about potential unfair dealer markups have already emerged online.
In a recent article published by Automotive News, VW Group of America CEO Pablo Di Si addressed the concerns surrounding dealer markups and emphasized the company’s commitment to avoiding price gouging on the new all-electric people-carrier. Di Si expressed the need to find a solution that satisfies both dealers and customers while maintaining a fair pricing structure.
Volkswagen appears to be exploring a similar approach to Ford, which recently announced its adoption of a no-haggle strategy for the sales of its electric vehicles. Ford’s customers will have the option to purchase cars online and arrange for remote delivery, bypassing the traditional dealership experience.
While VW is considering a comparable approach, Di Si acknowledged that a concrete solution has not been determined yet. He emphasized the importance of finding a fair system that prevents overpricing and ensures the stability of the sales process. The company aims to finalize this approach within the next three to five months.
The sales of the ID. Buzz LWB are scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with the first units arriving from Germany to the United States in the following year. This timeline allows Volkswagen sufficient time to devise a pricing strategy that addresses the concerns raised. Di Si firmly stated that consumers should not be burdened with higher prices, dismissing the possibility of a premium-priced launch edition.
In Germany, the shorter wheelbase version of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz starts at approximately $58,500 (54.669 €). It is expected that the longer wheelbase variant, which offers three rows of seats and is nearly 10 inches longer, will come with a slightly higher price tag when it hits the US market.
Moreover, since the ID. Buzz will be manufactured outside of North America, customers purchasing it from a dealer will not benefit from the $7,500 tax credit available for electric vehicle purchases. However, a tax credit for leasing the vehicle remains available.
