The all-electric VW ID Buzz evokes nostalgic van feelings and combines them with modern technology. But is the stylish e-bus also suitable for camping? In this blog post, you'll find out all the important information about the different versions of the ID Buzz and how you can turn your city e-car into a small camper with a few tricks and the right equipment - from BOXIO, for example. In the end, you'll see: Yes, you can take the ID Buzz on a weekend trip into nature and enjoy the freedom!
Camping washbasin and water filter system I BOXIO WASH MAX +
VW ID Buzz at a glance: Versions and camping potential
The ID Buzz is available in different versions, as a 5-seater family van, as a cargo van and, since 2023, also as a long version (7-seater) . All versions are generally suitable for camping, as the Buzz offers a spacious interior with a flat floor and foldable seats:
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ID Buzz 5-seater (SWB): Offers five seats and a large trunk. The rear seats can be folded down to create a relatively flat load floor. Although there is no built-in bed or kitchen unit ex works, you can create a sleeping area with an inflatable mattress or a modular system. Advantage: Lots of comfort (lined interior, automatic air conditioning in the rear, etc.). Disadvantage: The seats take up space if they are not removed.
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ID Buzz Cargo: Two to three seats at the front, with a completely empty load compartment behind - ideal for camper conversion. There is maximum space for a bed or camping furniture. For example, a sleeping area of approx. 186 × 130 cm fits in. Advantage: No rear seats to get in the way; also slightly higher payload. Disadvantage: Fewer seats and more spartan (van interior).
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ID Buzz long version (LWB): Longer wheelbase with up to 7 seats . More space for luggage and sleeping space - perfect for family trips. It also comes with optional all-wheel drive (4MOTION) and a larger battery (~91 kWh gross) for a little more range. This version will be available in Europe from 2024. It will also serve as the basis for the planned ID California E-Camper, although this is still a long way off.
Advantages of the ID Buzz when camping: The electric van is quiet and emission-free, perfect for spending the night in the countryside without engine noise or exhaust fumes. The interior is very spacious and flexible thanks to the box-shaped design. The seats in the 5-seater can be folded down to create a relatively flat "lying floor" . At just under 4.7 m long (SWB), the Buzz is compact enough for the city and parking lots, but big enough to sleep in. It can comfortably accommodate two people and, with the right configuration, has a sleeping area of ~1.86 × 1.20 m (Passenger) to 1.30 m (Cargo) . The ID Buzz also offers many modern features (panoramic roof, swivel front seats in LWB, numerous USB ports, etc.) that make camping life easier.
Challenges & disadvantages: As an electric car, the ID Buzz naturally has a limited range. The version with a 77 kWh battery manages around 400 km per charge (WLTP) - enough for a weekend trip, but longer distances require planning. Charging on the road takes longer than refuelling and you have to plan charging stops away from civilization. What's more, it (still) lacks any camping equipment from the factory: no cooking facilities, no built-in bed, no cool box. Even simple things like blackout blinds or mosquito nets have to be retrofitted. Another point: the ID Buzz is not exactly a bargain to buy - many owners lease the vehicle. Understandably, they don't want to make any permanent modifications so that they can return the vehicle in its original condition. This is where flexible solutions come into play, which we will look at in a moment.
All ID Buzz variants are suitable for camping if you are prepared to take some equipment with you or retrofit it. The basics are there: plenty of space, flexible seating configuration and that inimitable camper van feeling. However, it is clear that the ID Buzz is not (yet) a fully-fledged camper van. The standard equipment leaves a lot to be desired for campers, but you can compensate for this yourself. Find out how in the following sections.
Camping with an electric car: important tips for the ID Buzz
Camping with an electric car like the ID Buzz requires a little rethinking compared to a combustion camper. Here are the most important points you should consider to make your weekend trip with the electric van stress-free:
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Charging planning & range: plan your route so that enough charging stations are accessible, especially on longer trips. Ideally, you should charge before heading into remote countryside. Remember: "As long as you plan in advance where to charge and camp overnight, the rest will fall into place.". It is best to choose stopovers in places with several charging points in case a charging point is defective or occupied. Campsites with a power connection can also be used for charging overnight (please ask in advance, charging is not permitted everywhere!). With a range of around 400 km per charge, you can get quite far - but it's better to recharge once more than to stop.
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Minimize power consumption on site: Remember that every kilowatt hour from the vehicle battery reduces your range. Therefore, use the vehicle functions sparingly at the parking space. Example: Instead of running the air conditioning or parking heater for hours on end, ensure comfort with good insulation or a warm sleeping bag. For cooking and cooling, it makes sense to use independent solutions (more on this in a moment) so that you don't drain the vehicle battery. The ID Buzz may not have an exhaust, but it has a large battery, and you want to save that for driving.
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Enjoy quiet camping: One advantage of the E-Buzz is that it is whisper-quiet. You can arrive late at night or drive on early in the morning without waking anyone. Even when you spend the night in the vehicle, you don't have to leave the engine running - no noise, no exhaust fumes, no smell of gasoline. This protects nature and the nerves of your camping neighbors. 🌿 You can also theoretically activate the air conditioning or auxiliary heating briefly without poisoning yourself (no CO). Nevertheless, you should not leave them running permanently for battery reasons.
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Equipment for e-car camping: Pack everything you need for a self-sufficient camping experience. A charging brick/cable for Schuko sockets can be worth its weight in gold for (slow) recharging at friends' houses or at the campsite. Think about extension cables and adapters in case the charging station is too far away from the parking lot. Otherwise, you will need the same things as on any camping trip: lighting (e.g. USB lamps or string lights for the bus), a power bank/battery station for small devices, and possibly solar panels if you are staying off-grid for longer. There are also practical gadgets for the ID Buzz, such as custom-made thermal mats for the windows (for privacy and temperature) or rear tents that expand the space.
From everyday car to camper: expanding the ID Buzz
As Volkswagen does not (yet) offer the ID Buzz as a fully converted camper, you have to do it yourself - but don't worry, it's surprisingly easy without any major conversions. With just a few modules and a little preparation, you can transform the Buzz into a cozy mini camper:
Sleeping area: The simplest option is an air mattress in the trunk with the rear seats folded down. A bit makeshift for two people in the long run - special conversion systems are worth their weight in gold here. Camper conversion companies and accessory manufacturers have already developed initial solutions for the ID Buzz. For example, there are box systems that offer a pull-out slatted frame and storage space underneath. Such a module (e.g. from the manufacturer Ququq) was used in a test vehicle, which made it possible to "sleep, cook and store food". The conclusion of the testers: "I realized how good the ID Buzz can be as a campervan - even in standard form, with a modular, removable extension." . Such systems often allow the rear seat bench to remain in place and the conversion is only in the trunk for the journey. In camper mode, a folding bed then lies over the folded seats - ideal for spontaneous trips . Important: Measure the lying surface precisely. Depending on the version, the ID Buzz is around 1.20-1.30 m wide and 1.85 m long - enough for two people, but you shouldn't be too tall 😉 A thin topper or self-inflating mattress provides comfort and can be rolled up during the day.
Privacy: For overnight stays in the vehicle, you need a privacy screen. Solutions: Tinted film or thermal mats for the windows, a curtain behind the front seats, or an external shower/changing tent next to the vehicle. A tailgate tarpaulin can also be practical - this is attached to the open trunk lid and serves as an awning or shower cubicle.
Cooking & water: Of course, the ID Buzz does not have a built-in kitchen. Many campers opt for a camping kitchen box or individual equipment: gas stove, water canister with pump and sink bowl, portable cool box. It's worth opting for compact, stackable systems that have been specially developed for camping. This keeps everything tidy and makes the best use of the limited space. For example, the ID Buzz offers enough storage space to accommodate a cooking box and a water box (sink) - many systems are based on the Eurobox format, which fits perfectly in the Buzz trunk. Advantage: Modularity - you only take what you need with you and can also use the modules outside the vehicle (e.g. place the cooking box on the camping table).
Power & cooling: Think about whether you need a cool box, and if so, whether it should be electrically operated or passive. As we want to conserve the vehicle battery, passive cool boxes (insulated boxes with cool packs) or compressor cool boxes with an external battery are ideal. Cooking with gas also makes more sense in an electric camper than with an electric pan on an inverter - gas does not consume valuable driving energy. Lights and chargers can be easily operated via the 12V connection or a small power station.
Flexible vs. fixed camper solution: One piece of advice at the end of this section: make your ID Buzz as flexible as possible. As many people need the vehicle for everyday use (school bus, shopping, commuting), the camping conversion should be quick to install and remove. Leasing vehicles in particular must not be modified with screws, holes, etc. Fortunately, there are more and more "plug-and-play" kits for the Buzz that can be attached without tools. A removable extension like this is ideal if you want to use the Buzz normally during the week and then set off on an adventure at the weekend.
As you can see, with a little planning and the right modules, the stylish E-Bulli can be turned into a real leisure van. 🔄🏕️ And this is where BOXIO comes into play - a provider that has developed just such solutions.
Boxio: modular camping solutions for the ID Buzz
BOXIO offers sophisticated camping modules in Eurobox format that fit perfectly into vans such as the ID Buzz so that you don't have to laboriously piece together different pieces of equipment. These products are compact, lightweight, robust and, above all, modularly combinable - ideal for turning an everyday car into a camper without the need for permanent conversions. Below we present the most important BOXIO bundles and gadgets with which you can master sleeping, cooking, washing and relaxing in the ID Buzz. (Note: We link to all the BOXIO products mentioned on the German Boxio website so that you can find them directly)
Mobile bathroom: BOXIO - Sanitary Plus
If you want to camp self-sufficiently, sanitary facilities are crucial. With the Sanitary Plus Bundle from Boxio, you get your complete bathroom in two handy Euroboxes - including a separate toilet, washbasin, mirror, shower and privacy tent! Everything you need for hygiene is included and works without electricity or a fixed water connection - perfect for when you're on the move .
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Contents: The boxes contain the BOXIO Toilet (a compact dry separation toilet) with accessories, the BOXIO Wash (mobile washbasin with hand pump and shower attachment) plus mirror, two Solo Up insert boxes for additional storage space, a shower and toilet tent for privacy, as well as accessories such as seat pads, fastening clips, release agent (hemp litter) and bags. In short: a real all-in-one bathroom package.
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How to use: Set up at camp, pitch your tent - and you have your own small camping toilet with washing facilities, independent of sanitary blocks or chemical toilets. After use, everything is stowed and stacked back in the boxes, so it hardly takes up any space. The two boxes can be stacked on top of each other in the trunk or placed next to each other (they are the standard 60×40 cm Euro size).
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Advantages for the ID Buzz: The sanitary set fits perfectly in the trunk and doesn't weigh the earth (~12 kg complete). No part has to be permanently mounted. Especially if you don't have a camper with a fixed bathroom, this solution is worth its weight in gold - no more dirty communal toilets or wandering around the campsite at night with a flashlight! And if you're traveling without the "bathroom" part, you can simply leave the boxes at home.
Product tip: BOXIO SANITARY PLUS ("Mobile bathroom with tent") - your complete camping bathroom in two boxes, self-sufficient and space-saving.
BOXIO SANITARY PLUS | Mobile bathroom with TENT
Outdoor kitchen deluxe: BOXIO - Kitchen Plus
Cooking like at home - even in the middle of the wilderness? It's possible with the Kitchen Plus from Boxio. This bundle is a mobile outdoor kitchen in the Eurobox system that really does come with everything: gas stove, sink, cooling solution, work surface and crockery set, modularly stowable and ready for immediate use .
Imagine a miniature kitchen island that you can transport in the ID Buzz and set up at the campsite in minutes. The Kitchen Plus package includes:
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A gas stove (BOXIO Cook) with 1.5 kW burner, finely adjustable - integrated in a Eurobox. Plus matching gas cartridges (EN417) for many hours of cooking.
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A high-quality stainless steel pot and pan set (BOXIO Cookware), stackable and secured with clever magnetic pads so that nothing rattles during transportation. Included are two pots with lids, a frying pan and even a small kettle - everything fits perfectly in the stove box!
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A mobile sink (BOXIO Wash) with hand pump and shower head attachment - ideal for washing up, washing hands or even for a quick outdoor shower. Fresh water and waste water are carried in canisters in the box. A folding washbasin board and a small mirror are also included.
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A passive cool box (BOXIO Cool) with special cool packs that keeps food and drinks cool - without any electricity. The box is designed to create different cooling zones (e.g. drinks at the top, slightly frozen food at the bottom). The cooling capacity is easily sufficient for a weekend trip.
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A large camping table (BOXIO Table), which serves as a base for the boxes and provides a work surface at a comfortable standing height (~90 cm). This table is foldable, height-adjustable (40-62 cm without boxes) and so stable that it can safely support the modules (load capacity up to ~30 kg). At the same time, you can use it as a dining table in the evening with the supplied insert plates. Ingenious: The Eurobox format of the table can accommodate up to 3 boxes in a form-fitting manner - i.e. you can place the stove, dishwasher and cool box inside and they are integrated in a non-slip manner.
All these components are coordinated with each other. The Kitchen Bundle combines "everything for the camping kitchen in one set - cooking, cooling, organizing and cleaning " . The modularity is particularly praised in tests: "Ultralight kitchen island with up to 90 cm standing height... all in one: cooking, washing up, cooling & working " . So you really can chop, fry and wash up just like at home, with the only difference being that you might be standing on the lakeshore enjoying the sunset. 🌅
This kitchen is ideally sized for the ID Buzz: The main unit with cooking, washing and cooling box measures around 90×40×28 cm (equivalent to two large and half a Eurobox) . It fits horizontally in the trunk. The foldable table comes separately (pack size ~90×10×18 cm) and weighs less than 4 kg . In total, the entire Kitchen Plus set weighs around 18 kg - light enough for two people to load and unload.
With the BOXIO Kitchen Plus, you never have to go without hot food or hot coffee again. Breakfast on the bus, dinner under the stars - you have the kitchen with you. And after cooking, everything is stowed back in the boxes, the table folded up and into the trunk - off you go!
👉 Product tip: BOXIO KITCHEN PLUS ("Mobile outdoor kitchen with standing height") - The complete camping kitchen in Euroboxes, incl. gas stove, pot set, sink, cool box and table.
Mobile outdoor kitchen with standing height I BOXIO KITCHEN PLUS
Camping furniture: BOXIO chair and table
What would camping trips be without sitting comfortably under the stars? Boxio also has something for relaxing around the campfire or in front of the bus: the ultra-light BOXIO Chair camping chair and the aforementioned BOXIO Table camping table (which we got to know as part of the kitchen).
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BOXIO Chair: This foldable camping chair only weighs around 1.2 kg including the carry bag, but can carry up to 150 kg - remarkable! It can be disassembled compactly and even fits into a Eurobox. In a Boxio Solo (standard Eurobox 60×40×32), for example, you can store up to 4 chairs, ideal for vanlife use. Despite its lightweight construction, it is robust: a high-quality aluminum frame makes the chair stable and rustproof . In the ID Buzz, you can simply place the chairs under the cargo area or behind the front seats when not in use. Many users praise the seating comfort - you can also gain some height with a small cushion to sit comfortably at the table. In short: perfect for chilling out in front of the Buzz in the evening or sipping coffee outside in the morning. ☕
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BOXIO Table: As described above, the camping table is modular and height-adjustable. It not only serves as a cooking station, but also as a normal dining table. With just a few simple steps (remove the boxes and put in the inserts instead), you can conjure up a cozy table for 2-4 people - ideal for dinner under the stars or a game of cards in the camper. Thanks to the telescopic frame, you can also set the table lower (up to ~40 cm) so that you can eat comfortably in the low camping chairs. The table is weatherproof (powder-coated aluminum) and really stable: "carries 3 Euroboxes safely... loadable up to 30 kg". Nevertheless, it is light enough to be carried with one hand.
The beauty of the Boxio Chair & Table is that both are designed to save space: The Table comes in a bag and fits crosswise in the trunk, and the Chairs stow away in a set of 2 or 4 in matching boxes (there is even a set of 2 Chairs + Boxio Solo Up Bundle, where the storage box is included directly) . No rattling, no annoying Tetris - everything has its place.
Product tips:
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BOXIO CHAIR - Ultralight foldable camping chair, 1.2 kg, packs down small.
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BOXIO TABLE - Modular camping table, suitable for Boxio modules or as a dining table, height-adjustable up to 90 cm.
BOXIO CHAIR I ultralight camping chair
Useful helpers: BOXIO EAT (cutlery) and COOKWARE (pot set)
The camping set-up is rounded off with practical tableware and cooking accessories. Boxio also provides clever solutions here so that you are fully equipped:
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BOXIO EAT - camping cutlery set: The EAT set is a stainless steel cutlery set for 2 people . It contains knives, forks, large and small spoons - twice each. Everything comes in a compact bag that fits neatly in a Eurobox or drawer. The cutlery is robust (gastro quality, stainless steel) and dishwasher safe . No more plastic cutlery, just eat in style like at home - and simply wash up afterwards. The BOXIO EAT set fits perfectly with the cooking system, as it has been designed to fit into the cooking box or a flat Solo-Up box. So you always have your cutlery to hand next to the pots and pans.
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BOXIO COOKWARE - 4-in-1 pot set: This stainless steel camping pot set has been specially developed for the Boxio system. It consists of a frying pan (Ø 22 cm), a large pot (3 L) with lid, a smaller pot (1.6 L) with lid and a kettle (0.8 L) - everything you need for cooking. The highlight: all parts can be stacked inside each other and fit perfectly into the storage space of the Boxio Cook gas stove. There are also felt dividers and self-adhesive magnetic pads so that nothing rattles when driving. The pot set is induction-compatible (except for the kettle) and has a sandwich base for even heat distribution. Tests emphasize how well thought-out the COOKWARE is: "...so well thought-out that you wonder why outdoor cooking was ever complicated." And best of all: "The complete set fits compactly into the BOXIO Cook with two gas cartridges and cutlery " - turning your gas stove into a fully-fledged kitchen.
Especially in the ID Buzz with its limited space, it's great when everything has its fixed, compact place. No more rattling pots while driving, no loose cutlery rattling around in drawers, Boxio has thought of that.
Product tips:
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BOXIO EAT - Camping cutlery set (stainless steel) for 2 people, compact and robust.
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BOXIO COOKWARE - Camping pot set (pan, 2 pots, kettle), stackable and fits into the Boxio system.
Camping cutlery I BOXIO EAT
Outlook: The BOXIO Rack - modular extension for the ID BUZZ
Finally, we would like to give you a small preview, which is particularly exciting for ID Buzz owners who are planning a real camper conversion: BOXIO is working on a "rack", a modular extension system especially for vans like the Buzz. This BOXIO Rack will be a mobile furniture system in Eurobox design that combines storage space and sleeping accommodation. The plan is to create a kind of box rack that can hold several Euroboxes (for luggage, kitchen, etc.) and also serves as a base for an extendable slatted frame. With a few simple steps, it should be possible to install a large camping bed in the ID Buzz - in different versions, depending on requirements (e.g. half bed for solo travelers or large bed for two). Of course, this rack can also be installed and removed without tools. Leasing customers in particular are likely to welcome this, as the rack can be removed when not in use, leaving the vehicle in its original state.
At the moment, Boxio has only released the first teasers and prototype announcements for this rack. But what we are hearing sounds promising: an extension that is tailor-made for the ID Buzz, with which you can make optimum use of storage space and sleep comfortably at the same time - without drilling or sawing. 🎉 So stay tuned and follow the Boxio channels for news. Maybe your ID Buzz will soon become the perfect e-camper with the Boxio Rack!
The Volkswagen ID Buzz already comes with a lot of things that camping fans love: space, comfort and that certain feeling of freedom that the Bulli T1 once embodied. With a little equipment and planning, you can enjoy this feeling to the full:
This is exactly what the modular solutions from Boxio make possible. They get the maximum out of the ID Buzz, so that every model becomes a camper (albeit a camper light 😉). Sure, a factory-built California based on the Buzz would be nice - but until that comes (Volkswagen is taking its time ), we're taking camper happiness into our own hands!
So, dear ID Buzz community: don't let anyone tell you that your "city e-car" is only for the supermarket and kindergarten. Pack up the Boxio modules, charge the battery and then get out into nature! 🏞️✨ The electric van is waiting to take you on an adventure. With this in mind: Have a safe journey at all times, full batteries and unforgettable camping experiences! 🌟🚐
FAQs ID BUZZ Camping
1) Is the ID. Buzz generally suitable for camping?
Yes - all versions (Pro, Cargo, long version, GTX) work as a camper base. The only thing missing as standard is the camping equipment (bed, kitchen, bathroom). This is exactly where mobile solutions such as the BOXIO bundles can help.
2) Which ID. Buzz variant suits me best?
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Pro (short): handy for everyday use, great for weekend trips for two.
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Cargo: maximum empty & flexible for modular extensions/Euroboxes.
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Long version: more space/versatility; ideal if you are tall or have a lot of gear.
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GTX: all-wheel drive & higher towing capacity - good if you often travel off-road/with a trailer.
(For information on loading/technology, see FAQ 6.)
3) How do I get a bed into the ID. Buzz - without a fixed extension?
With the rear seat folded down, it works improvised; a modular sleeping/storage module is more comfortable. Teaser: The BOXIO Rack is coming soon - storage space for several Euroboxes + flexible slatted frame as a pull-out camping bed. Can be installed/removed in a few simple steps - great for leasing and daily drivers.
4) What do I do without an on-board bathroom/toilet?
With the BOXIO SANITARY PLUS, you can build a mobile bathroom from stackable Euroboxes: separate toilet, washbasin, shower set-up & TENT for privacy - self-sufficient, lightweight, quickly stowed away.
5) How do I cook & wash up on the go?
Take an outdoor kitchen with you:
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BOXIO KITCHEN BUNDLE / PLUS - cooking, cooling, organizing & washing up as a set (PLUS version with standing height).
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Add seating & table: BOXIO CHAIR and BOXIO TABLE.
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Cookware/cutlery as a set: e.g. BOXIO COOK MAX+.
6) How quickly does the ID. Buzz charge on road trips?
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Models with 77 kWh net (standard battery) charge DC up to 170 kW (5-80 % ~30 min, optimal).
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Long version with large battery charges up to ~200 kW under ideal conditions.
Tip: Plan charging stops every ~200-300 km and combine them with coffee breaks.
7) Is the range sufficient for a weekend trip?
Yes - realistically (depending on the season/speed/load) you can get to the spot and back in a relaxed manner if you plan quick intermediate charges. The long version has range advantages; the GTX is slightly lower due to its all-wheel drive/performance.
8) Can I charge at the campsite?
Many campsites allow charging at the power connection or have charging points. Ask about conditions in advance. Schuko (2.3 kW) overnight is often enough to recharge significantly.
9) What should I bear in mind when managing energy (at night in the bus)?
Pre-cool/pre-heat before sleeping (on the cable), then be economical with interior consumers. Use a power station/LED lamp for light/fan. Passive cooling (cool packs) protects the traction battery.
10) Do I need window ventilation when stationary?
Yes, fresh air is important. Use mosquito nets & open windows/tailgate (take the weather into account). A small, battery-operated fan box helps against humidity.
11) How do I sit & work comfortably outside?
With ultra-light chairs and a height-adjustable table, you can sit/cook in a back-friendly way: BOXIO CHAIR & BOXIO TABLE.
12) Is all this suitable for leasing (retrofittable)?
Yes, BOXIO modules are not permanently installed and can be removed in no time at all. The upcoming BOXIO rack can also be removed quickly - perfect if you want to lease your Buzz or drive it "clean" in everyday life.
13) Trailer/caravan with ID. Buzz - is that possible?
Yes, the GTX in particular offers a higher towing capacity (braked; depending on the version). Check the exact values in your vehicle documents - the range is significantly higher than the 2WD models.
14) Which basic equipment do you recommend as a start setup?
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Bathroom: BOXIO SANITARY PLUS
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Kitchen: BOXIO KITCHEN BUNDLE / PLUS
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Sitting/dining: BOXIO CHAIR & BOXIO TABLE
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Cooking/eating: BOXIO COOK MAX+
All modular, stackable, lightweight - perfect for ID. Buzz camping.
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Driving behavior and off-road: The ID Buzz has a low center of gravity due to the batteries and is safe to drive even when fully loaded. Nevertheless, it is not an off-roader; sandy ground or rough terrain should only be driven on with caution (the upcoming AWD version is somewhat better equipped for this). Stay on paved roads where possible. For overnight stays in the countryside, look for a flat place so that you can sleep comfortably - wedges for leveling are recommended.
If you follow these tips, nothing will stand in the way of your camping adventure with an electric car. On the contrary, many ID Buzz drivers report how relaxing it is to be out in nature in the quiet van. No humming, just birdsong in the morning - and still enough energy to get home again.
