A classic reborn
From the moment it was born, the Kombi has been a symbol of hope for a better world. Now, 65 years later, leaving the world in a better place for future generations is more important than ever. That’s why Volkswagen are making a shift to a more sustainable future by starting our journey into electric vehicles. And what better way to hit the road on our journey than by bringing back an icon from the past, so it can lead us into the future.
Introducing KEV:
The Kombi Electric Vehicle
Meet KEV, the Kombi Electric Vehicle. An OG. A real one. A 1966 Kombi with all the magic we remember, from its split-screen sliding door, to its shining Volkswagen badge. A past life on the open road as a vehicle for the Dunedin Health Board, we’re now breathing new life into this classic by transforming it into an electric vehicle. Fully repowered from fossil fuels to clean energy, KEV is leading the way in Volkswagen’s shift to a more sustainable future - a future that’s better for the flowers, and the rest of us. Something the original KEV would be proud of.
Out with the old, in with the new
1
KEV’s journey into the future took intense research, tinkering and coffee breaks. Literally beginning as just a shell of its former self, KEV has received a complete overhaul and new lease on life.
2
Under the hood, the eight bolts holding down his old engine were removed, followed by the engine itself. The tired battery was disconnected. And the redundant throttle cable, fuel tank, and fuel filler hose were all put into retirement.
3
This made way for the recycled battery cell packs and voltage cables which will power KEV’s pièce de resistance: a new electric motor and heart.
4
KEV embodies all the charm and nostalgia we remember but now with some changes that makes him better for the planet.
Plus, makes way for a shift towards a more sustainable future
Your blueprint to a greener future
We’re taking notes while we develop KEV, so anyone can convert their own Kombi to an EV too. Our open source greenprint shows you how to electrify your Kombi in 20 relatively easy-ish steps – futureproofing your beloved Kombi, just like KEV.
Download the full greenprintBefore & After
Sure, KEV has a new engine. But he hasn’t forgotten his roots or lost a bit of that classic Kombi charm.
Did you you know...
Fact#1
KEV’s batteries are fully recycled from past Volkswagen projects, like the e-Golf.
Fact#2
The Kombi was originally designed on a napkin. However, KEV’s design wasn’t quite so simple…
Fact#3
The Kombi graced album covers alongside the likes of Bob Dylan, and The Beach Boys. KEV is open to any electronic music collabs.
Next Steps
Volkswagen Disclaimer
- 1. The information provided on the Volkswagen New Zealand website is for information purposes only
- 2. Volkswagen New Zealand reserves the right to extend, withdraw or change all offers *Prices are shown in New Zealand dollars, include GST and exclude on road costs
- 3. Fuel consumption is based on the combined fuel consumption figure
- 4. International models might be shown for illustrative purposes only, and New Zealand specifications may vary
- 5. Some colours in these images are not available in New Zealand, the product guide contains the correct colours available to the New Zealand market
- 6. Additional and optional accessories may have an effect on fuel efficiency. Optional accessories and add-on packages are available at an additional cost
- 7. App-Connect is compatible for selected apps with the latest smartphone versions of iOS and Android, active data service, and connection cable (sold separately)
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- 9. Leather appointed seats have a combination of genuine and artificial leather, but are not wholly leather
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