New 2021 Volkswagen Transporter Is Joining The Plug-in Hybrid Crowd

Like nearly every model in Volkswagen’s modern lineup, the Transporter is getting ready to go down the electrified route, and we have proof that a plug-in hybrid variant of the popular van is on its way.

Spied testing in the cold alongside the regular model was the PHEV in people carrier form. The prototype lacked the ‘Hybrid’ stickers that are mandatory in some countries, yet if you look closely at the right front quarter panel, you will see a plug port.

Details surrounding the powertrain are few, but if we were to take a shot at guessing, we’d say that it probably combines a four-pot gasoline engine with a small electric motor. The battery pack should supply the necessary juice for a zero-emission daily commute, given that you do not need to travel too far away from home, so it will likely have an electric range of a few tens of kilometers.

The Transporter PHEV prototype also had less camo around the rear side windows, revealing more of the final design. Our spy photographers managed to zoom in on the cockpit as the vehicle was driving by, giving us a first look at the fresh interior design. Notice the new infotainment system incorporated in the middle of the dashboard and what seems to be a digital instrument cluster next to it.

Volkswagen might eventually step up the game with an electric version of the new-gen Transporter, but this is still a rumor for now. Meanwhile, we expect the ICE-powered variants to premiere later this year.