Volkswagen has expanded its midsize van offerings to cater to a diverse audience, from families looking for comfort to professionals needing practical utility. The lineup includes familiar names like the Multivan and the all-electric ID. Buzz, but one standout is the recently updated Transporter. Now in its seventh generation, the Transporter doesn't just function as a cargo van — it also comes in a flatbed pickup variant with seating for five, known officially as the Flatbed DoKa. This model is particularly unique because it’s available with both diesel and electric powertrains, offering more flexibility than traditional pickups like the Amarok.
Developed in collaboration with Ford, the latest Transporter shares its foundation with the Transit Custom. Buyers can choose from several configurations, including standard panel vans with different roof heights and wheelbase lengths. However, those in need of a spacious open cargo area will find the Flatbed DoKa especially practical. It sits on an extended 3,500 mm wheelbase and stretches 5,613 mm in overall length — a figure that surpasses the Amarok by over 260 mm. Thanks to its short front overhang, most of this added length benefits the rear tray, which spans 2,169 mm in length and 1,945 mm in width, offering considerable loading capacity.
When it comes to payload, the diesel version supports up to 736 kg, while the electric model handles slightly more at 785 kg. Though these numbers are a bit lower than some traditional midsize trucks, they’re still sufficient for most commercial and light industrial needs. Visually, both versions look nearly identical, with subtle badging ("Transporter" or "e-Transporter") as the main difference. VW hasn’t introduced a more rugged PanAmericana variant for the Flatbed DoKa, but aftermarket specialists such as Delta 4×4 offer customization options for those seeking off-road flair.
The diesel-powered versions are driven by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, offered in two output levels: 108 hp or 148 hp. Depending on configuration, power can be delivered to the front wheels or all four via a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. These components are sourced from Ford, along with the ladder-frame chassis.
Electric variants feature a single rear-mounted motor and come in three power levels: 134 hp, 215 hp, and 282 hp. Regardless of output, each version delivers 415 Nm of torque, giving them a noticeable edge in low-end power over the diesel models. Prices in Germany range from €46,586 to €66,316, with EV versions starting higher than their diesel counterparts.