New Volkswagen California Camper Concept Adds Hybrid Power

Volkswagen has given us a sneak peek into the upcoming generation of the California vehicle, unveiling the intriguing California Hybrid Concept.

Volkswagen has given us a sneak peek into the upcoming generation of the California vehicle, unveiling the intriguing California Concept. This innovative concept is set to grace the public stage on August 25th at the Caravan Salon in Dusseldorf.

The foundation of the new Volkswagen California lies in the T7 Multivan, a detail that has already been disclosed. However, the fresh concept sketches provide a captivating glimpse into the adaptability of this camper.

While the iconic pop-up roof remains a staple, the new addition of a dual awning represents a notable evolution from the outgoing model's single-side offering. This enhancement also emphasizes practicality, featuring dual slide-opening doors for added convenience.

Further insight from the sketches showcases an integrated pop-out tablet within the concept. This screen assumes control over various functions, spanning from the California's climate settings to the illumination of the cabin.

As we anticipate the new camper's release, we can anticipate the continuation of cherished attributes from previous models. These include a rear-attached tent, a compact kitchenette complete with a sink and cooker, as well as the indispensable foldout bed for camping comfort.

The grand unveiling of the production edition of the California Concept is scheduled for the later part of the year, with plans from Volkswagen to introduce it to the UK market just prior to the summer of 2024.

A novel development in the next-generation California is the availability of a plug-in hybrid powertrain – a pioneering feature for this model.

It's highly likely that this system will draw inspiration from the Multivan eHybrid's setup, encompassing a 1.4-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine coupled with an electric motor fueled by a 13kWh battery. While the Multivan PHEV attains a 30-mile electric-only range, the California's greater weight might slightly reduce this figure.

Interestingly, the California moniker is set to extend to the existing Volkswagen Multivan, as the brand seeks to expand its successful portfolio of factory-built van-based camper models.

Volkswagen had already hinted at the California's future during the 2022 financial results announcement. Their vision includes enhancing the California model range by incorporating digital innovations and services, effectively crafting a "California Universe" of sorts.

This ambitious endeavour could pave the way for a broader range carrying the California badge. While presently only the Caddy California holds this name within Volkswagen's lineup, we can anticipate the inclusion of camper iterations for VW's electric lineup, most notably the ID.Buzz, at a later juncture. 

Interestingly enough, some people are already trying to convert the ID.Buzz Cargo van into a camper, so the customers are definitely there for an ID.Buzz camper.

The incoming California model will supersede the California 6.1, which derives its foundation from the outgoing Transporter 6.1 van. While the previous California iteration continues to be available, starting from £61,322, it's safe to anticipate a substantial increase in pricing for the forthcoming model.