News that Volkswagen’s ID Buzz full-electric van is already sold out for months before the start of deliveries in Europe is bad news for Kiwis fans of the retro-styled vehicle.

Advance sales have now passed the 10,000 mark, led by demand in Norway, followed by Germany. Around a third of the pre-orders have been placed in Norway, where 3400 ID Buzz vans have been sold. Germany placed 2500 orders, a further 1100 orders came from the Netherlands and 1000 from Belgium, says Europe Automotive News.

Production of the Kombi-inspired ID Buzz began in May, with the first vehicles set to be delivered in October.

By the end of the year, 15,000 vehicles will be produced, which means that more than two-thirds of them have already been sold.

Earlier this year, VW NZ Commercial general manager, Kevin Richards, said the brand would have to battle with strong demand in Europe to secure supply, with the hope that the ID. Buzz arrives here in 2023.

“We’re working very hard with the factory in Europe to get the ID. Buzz into New Zealand next year as soon as possible,” said Richards at the launch of the VW Multivan.

“The only downside to creating such a fantastic ‘buzz’ with this vehicle is that everyone wants one. Demand in Europe is so strong that we’ll just need to be a little bit more patient Downunder before we see it.”