The German carmaker has resurrected the classic VW-Beetle-inspired Meyers Manx dune buggy as an electric concept. The ID buggy has been previewed ahead of its official unveiling at the Geneva motor show. The car was previously hinted at to journalists in the firm's annual Christmas card sent out to journalists

The ID Buggy's front-end design is shown in darkened shots for the first time and has been described by VW design boss Klaus Bischoff as a "modern, non-retro interpretation of a classic." Sure enough, the new ID Buggy bears no styling resemblance to any current Volkswagen model, and seems to lack both doors and a roof – like the unofficial kit car original. A free-standing windscreen, sturdy roll-over bar and large wheels shod in off-road tyres give a nod to the car's origins, while modern touches like the circular LED lighting signature stays with its times.

Last year, our sister publication, Autocar UK, exclusively revealed Volkswagen's plans to revive the classic beach buggy as an EV that featured key elements of its new MEB platform, as well as the electric driveline destined to power the ID hatchback due in Q3 next year – the first of Volkswagen’s upcoming line-up of zero-emissions ID models. The ID Buggy is said to be under “active consideration” as a possible addition to these zero-emissions models.

A Volkswagen source revealed to Autocar UK that the ID Buggy is among three retro-themed ID models masterminded by Volkswagen chairman Herbert Diess. It is meant to complement the Microbus-inspired Buzz van and a secret new five-door hatchback model described as a Beetle recreation.

The original Meyers Manx was designed for desert racing by Californian Bruce Meyers. It was produced between 1964-1971 in the form of a kit car based around the shortened chassis of the iconic VW Beetle.