Volkswagen Unveils First Electric California Camper Van

Volkswagen has unveiled its first all-electric California camper van, the ID. California Cruise, at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, Germany, marking a significant shift for the iconic recreational vehicle brand into the era of electric mobility. The new model, based on the ID. Buzz platform, was revealed on August 28, 2026, and represents the first in a planned family of electric California vehicles, with further models expected by 2028.

The ID. California Cruise is designed for weekend getaways, camping, and longer road trips, integrating essential camping equipment into the electric van. It features a sleeping area for two with a 2.03-meter-long bed, a newly developed 9-centimeter-thick folding comfort mattress, ventilation grilles, and blackout blinds on all windows. The vehicle also includes two camping chairs and a table, which are stored within the van. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles collaborated with Stuff Bubble, known for inflatable camping kitchens, to develop equipment that can transform the van into a camper in minutes.

A key feature is the "California mode," a function developed specifically for camping that allows selected lights, USB ports, and climate control to...