VW of America recently commissioned California-based EV conversion specialist EV West to construct an electrified VW Type 2 Bus to showcase the company’s e-Golf powertrain.

The stock powertrain and 35.8 kWh battery system from the donor 2017 e-Golf gives the e-Bus an approximate range of 125 miles. The powertrain will reside in the rear compartment of the e-Bus, which was previously occupied by the stock air-cooled 60 hp four-cylinder engine. The bus’s independent rear suspension is particularly suited to the EV’s transverse driveline, which contains a 100 kW synchronous AC permanent magnet electric motor, one-speed transmission, and charging system.

The battery units are contained inside reinforced, fireproof enclosures located under the front seats, in the former location of the fuel tank. EV West left the stock long-throw shifter, but now it actuates park, reverse, neutral, drive, and the regenerative braking modes. Most of the other exterior and interior features of the e-Bus remain largely unchanged.

“We are very excited to be a part of this project,” said EV West CEO Michael Bream. “Merging a historic model from an iconic brand with the technology of today is just one of many ways that we can step closer to a more sustainable future while continuing to enjoy our rich automotive heritage.”

Source: Volkswagen

