VW Encourages Dealers to Offer Two-Tone Wraps for ID Buzz EVs to Boost Sales

      Beverly Bra

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      The Volkswagen ID Buzz is surprising many by succeeding despite market challenges—it’s both a minivan and an electric vehicle (EV), two categories that aren't currently very popular. Since its launch late last year, the revamped VW Bus has seen a steady stream of sales, in part due to…aftermarket vinyl decals?

      Volkswagen has reported a 7.1 percent increase in year-over-year sales, marking six consecutive quarters of growth, but the noteworthy detail lies elsewhere. As highlighted by Automotive News, the West Coast is leading the way for the EV minivan, especially in California, where electric vehicles are more widely embraced. VW also indicates that supply is still working to meet demand.

      “Only in the last month or so have we really managed to properly stock our California dealers,” stated Hein Schafer, VW’s senior vice president of sales in the U.S. The ID Buzz is manufactured in Hanover, Germany, which is a considerable distance from West Coast dealerships.

      Moreover, buyers of the ID Buzz show a preference for the two-tone paint options, which are relatively uncommon in the U.S. due to production limitations in Germany. As a result, VW has had to create more single-color models in less appealing shades like black, silver, and white. To compensate for the lack of visually striking inventory, the company has provided an incentive for dealers: sharing the cost for vehicle wraps.

      Consumers are charged $3,000 for the wrap, which is in line with market pricing. For each plain Buzz that is wrapped, dealers can apply for a $1,500 rebate from VW. This initiative seems to be yielding positive results.

      “The single-tone vehicles don’t sell as quickly as the two-tone versions,” Schafer told Automotive News. “Once dealers enhance them with wraps, we see them moving again.”

      The ID Buzz is not new to the wrapping concept. Last year, VW partnered with the vehicle graphics firm Wrapmate, allowing customers to design personalized wraps and decals through an online tool. However, this dealer incentive leans more towards color selection rather than creativity.

      Isn’t it ironic to have a simple solution for such a technologically advanced vehicle? Nonetheless, that’s one issue resolved. Now, on to the pricing details.

      Initial deliveries primarily consisted of the ID Buzz 1st Edition, a fully equipped model priced at $67,045 for the rear-wheel-drive version or $71,545 for the all-wheel-drive. This is a significant increase compared to the base ID Buzz Pro S RWD, which costs $61,545. Additionally, these prices came before the new higher tariff rates for imported vehicles that took effect this month. For now, it appears the flagship vehicle is continuing to thrive.

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