VW stops id. Buzz export to the USA: Customs problems and recall!

VW stops id. Buzz export to the USA: Customs problems and recall!

Hannover, Deutschland - VW has just had a shock for all fans of the ID. BUZZ heralded: The export of the popular electric bullis to the USA will be stopped for the time being. The Handelsblatt reports that this step was already initiated in May. The reason for this are serious security problems with the rear seat bench, which is simply too wide and therefore does not correspond to the strict US specifications. A spokesman for VW Commercial Vehicles confirmed this export stop, which also results in a recall of over 5,000 vehicles that have already been delivered. In order to meet the requirements, VW plans to incorporate an additional cladding that reduces the width of the back seat.

The situation around the ID. However, BUZZ is not only difficult due to the security problems. According to reports, customs problems also contribute to the stop. Since April 2023, an exorbitant inch of 27.5% has been in effect for cars produced in Europe - and this increase of 2.5% previously makes the calculation for VW anything but easy. The VW boss Oliver Blume was skeptical: "Export from Europe to the USA no longer makes sense with the current tariffs." A larger customs deal between the EU and the USA is still pending, and the question remains whether the export of the ID. Buzz can be resumed before an agreement.

The effects on paragraph

what was considered a hope for the company remained behind the expectations. In the first quarter of 2023, over 1,900 ID. Buzz exported to the USA; In the second quarter, until the recall, there were only about 570 vehicles. The planned sales figures of a total of 40,000 vehicles per year are likely to be achieved. In addition, the factory vacation in Hanover is extended by a week, which gives a further indication of the weakening sales.

The increasing tariffs and the associated challenges not only affect VW, but the entire German automotive industry. According to Deloitte, German manufacturers have to prepare for rising tariffs and rethink their production strategies. This could even cost jobs in the long term, especially in vehicle production. Additional investments are necessary if OEMS want to shift their production to the USA to stay competitive.

a look ahead

as with the ID. Buzz continues, remains uncertain for the time being. However, it is certain that VW hopes for an exception in Washington, which has so far been unsuccessful. Whether and when the deliveries will be resumed is in the stars, while the electric bulli should continue to play an exciting role in the market. The development of customs policy will be essential for German automobile manufacturers in order to be able to survive in global competition in the long term.

For more information here the sources: electrive , deloitte .