The first fully electric Volkswagen California and a new range of modular inflatable units designed to make the California Beach easier to use as a day-to-day vehicle are to be launched later this month.
The new VW camper van and the new units, which include an inflatable kitchen and an inflatable bed, will go on display for the first time at Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf.
Volkswagen has partnered with Stuff Bubble, the brand behind the world’s first inflatable camping kitchen, to create an innovative kitchen and bed for the California Beach, which is designed to work around the ‘van’s shape and style without compromising on the benefits that a removable modular system provides.
The aim is to make the California Beach as versatile as possible, as the modules can be installed or removed within a matter of minutes, so it should be easier to use the vehicle both as a campervan for short expeditions and as a campervan for everyday use.
As they are deflatable, the units should be able to be stored in a garage or similar space at home.
Measuring around 120 x 44 x 47.5cm, the inflatable kitchen has been designed to integrate into the campervan’s current luggage shelf mounting system, and, despite weighing less than 10kg, it still manages to include an integrated closed water circuit. Its split design means it can be used both inside or outside the ‘van.
The bed system, in contrast, will measure around 200 x 134cm, and can be used either as a single bed weighing 6kg or a double bed weighing 12kg.
Details of how and when it will come to market are still being decided.
Visitors will also get to see the ID. California Cruise, which will be the first step towards introducing a new generation of all-electric campervans over the next couple of years. The ID. California Cruise will be based on the ID. Buzz.
In other recent campervan news, Malibu has announced it is adding another model to its Relax line-up for 2027. The latest addition to the Fiat Ducato-based range will come with a drop-down bed.
Written with contributions from Peter Baber.
Images: Volkswagen
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