New VW Transporter T7 finally revealed with three EV powertrains

After months of teasers, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has finally unveiled the seventh-generation Transporter (T7). It borrows a lot from the Ford Transit Custom, including its plug-in hybrid and electric drivetrains, and will become available in cargo (Transporter) and passenger van (Caravelle) versions.

It is confusing why VW CV took so long to launch the new Transporter. Besides the unique nose and tail lights, the new van’s shape is a direct copy of the Ford Transit Custom, thanks to the collaboration between Volkswagen and Ford in the commercial vehicle department. This collaboration also saw a shared platform for the pick-ups of Amarok and Ranger and the VW Caddy-based Ford Transit Connect. Even the new electric Ford Explorer has VW DNA.

Multiple body styles

On the inside, too, the similarities continue, although Volkswagen has fitted its own steering wheel, software for the standard-fitted 13-inch infotainment screen, and some specific details. The Transporter T7 will become available as a panel van, double cab, chassis platform, and a passenger version, which will be called Caravelle.

Thanks to the new shared platform, the VW Transporter T7 is 146 mm longer (now 5,050 to 5,450 mm), 128 mm wider (2,032 mm without mirrors), and with a 97 mm longer wheelbase (3,100 to 3,500 mm), although the total height of the low-roof version stays below 2 meters to fit in most multi-story parking garages.

This increased size also benefits the cargo space. The smallest Transporter now has up to 5.8 m³ of stowage available, rising to 9 m³ for the long-wheelbase and high-roof version. The maximum payload is 1.33 tonnes, while the Transporter T7 can now tow up to 2.8 tonnes (compared to 2.5 tonnes for the T6.1).

Diesel, hybrid or fully-electric

For the first time, the Volkswagen Transporter will be available with electrified drivetrains, which also come from Ford, alongside the traditional diesel engines. The plug-in hybrid eHybrid features a 171 kW (232 hp) drivetrain, while three fully-electric powertrains will become available: 100 kW (136 hp), 160 kW (218 hp) and 210 kW (286 hp). All three variants feature a 64 kWh (net) battery, expect a WLTP range of over 300 km. A smaller battery for urban delivery purposes is coming, too.

Pre-sales for the new VW Transporter T7 have already begun, with a starting price of €36,780. The first deliveries are expected in early 2025.