Volkswagen ID. Buzz AD robotaxi prototype breaks cover

KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with the autonomous tech developer Argo AI, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles revealed the ID. Buzz AD prototype at the IAA show 2021. The AD suffix in the moniker refers to Autonomous Driving and for that new role, the iconic model is fitted with a hi-tech suite of sensors software, and computer platforms for a 360° awareness of the environment. 

The German marque initially unveiled the ID Buzz Concept at the Detroit Auto Show in 2017 and since then the long-awaited electric microbus was usually depicted with yellow-silver paintwork. Well, opposite to that, the self-driving prototype version has now appeared in black and white camouflage. 

Volkswagen and Argo AI aims to launch the driver-less microbus in Germany in the next few years as part of a ridesharing service. It will be first run by the automaker's mobility service arm, MOIA. 

To make this happen, Argo AI will take care of the self-driving system powering the ID. Buzz AD; the system includes all the maps required, hardware, software, and cloud-support infrastructure. The firm claims that the robotaxi can detect pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles by a large LIDAR scanner on the roof complemented by 14 cameras, 11 radar panels, six lidar sensors, and microphones. With the patented Geiger-mode technology, the van will also be able to detect low reflectivity vehicles.

“The ID. Buzz AD test fleet represents a milestone in our partnership with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles,” commented Bryan Salesky, founder, and CEO, Argo AI. 

“Building on our five years of development and learnings from our operations in large, complex US cities, we are excited to soon begin testing on the streets of Munich in preparation for the launch of the self-driving commercial ride-pooling service with MOIA,” he further explained.

What are your thoughts on the Volkswagen ID. Buzz AD robotaxi? Do let us know in the comments.

Also read: Volkswagen ID. Life concept previewed at Munich