BUDD-e: Volkswagen's Vision for the Near Future

Volkswagen embraces new visions and approaches for the 2016 season. And one of the symbols of this change is the futuristic avant-garde van dubbed BUDD-e. This is a special machine, based on the contemporary Modular-Electric Platform (MEB), which is especially created for plug-in vehicles. And in fact, this is the first car that is based on MEB technology and indeed, there is much to be shown. So, let's waste no more time and see what is going on here!

With BUDD-e, Volkswagen shows what would the electric vehicles look like by 2019. The new platform will enable series of production vehicles to have pure electric range and is on par with today's gasoline-powered cars  by the end of the decade. Furthermore, BUDD-e is the first concept car that Volkswagen develops in order to fundamentally change the nature of electric cars.

The new platform is created to offer enough space for the electric drive components and large batteries, while at the same time there is plenty of interior space for passengers and luggage. In addition, MEB vehicles will also offer high levels of functionality and networking, thanks to this very same architecture. How cool is that?

Exterior design

Inspired by the iconic Volkswagen vans, BUDD-e looks practical and clean, but at the same time demonstrates this distinctive innovative and futuristic spirit.

The front end is definitely a 100% Volkswagen. The area around the logo can be backlit by integrated LED modules in many different ways, while the distinctive LED headlights are placed high up and the integrated LED indicators further enhance the distinctive and yet familiar front.

As we talk about vehicle's appearance, we must also mention that its silhouette is characterized by the flat and enlonged roof, long windows, 21-inch aluminum alloys, while the narrow LED stripe that goes along the sides serves as special ambient lightning and contributes to that unmistakable design.

The rear shows an aerodynamic design with glossy black D-pillars that reduce the aerodynamic drag and optimizes the rear downforce. We also notice the iconic large tailgate, LED taillights strips and an unique C-shaped LED signature surrounds.

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Interior styling

The interior of BUDD-e is defined by innovative machine interface. The design is super-clean and cozy, while the technical architecture of the infotainment system makes a quantum leap to the flip phones to smart phones or from analog to smart watches. With the new design, BUDD-e eliminates the distinction between electronic instrument cluster and the center console.

Of course, the idea behind the navigation panel to be rooted was realized with one thing in mind: driving.  Behind the panel is the 3D navigation map with graphics which becomes the matrix of an interactive human-machine interface.

All of BUDD-e's components and systems are operated by gesture control, touch screen functions and of course, voice control. The driver can choose between numerous control modes as for example, the "Hello, BUDD-e" that activates the voice control function.

Also, similar to smart phones, there is a special menu tab that offers quick and easy access to key functions. They include opening and closing the hatch, sliding the door, playing music, viewing video and numerous more. The information about basic functions as climate control and seat heating can also be shown at the bottom of the display, where all the buttons rest.

Of course, this is not all. The special vehicle also includes a special multifunction steering wheel with countless options and functions. It even activates some of the features by pressure or swipe gestures. Also, it offers this interesting new pre-sensing feedback. How cool is that?

Volkswgen BUDD-e Concept (2016)

Source: Volkswagen