At the Düsseldorf Caravan Show, Volkswagen presented this iconic concept for its world premiere, offering the best livability and comfort with maximum sustainability.
In the world of motorhomes, Volkswagen California has been an iconic name since it was founded in 1988. In each generation, this motorhome has retained its iconic features while still incorporating modern innovations. The recently introduced California concept takes a giant leap forward in terms of technical advancement, making it the ideal motorhome for the modern era.
One of the hallmarks of a Californian motorhome is its pop-up roof, which provides additional headroom and sleeping space. This tradition continues with the California Concept, which features a nearly two-meter-high pop-up roof, a feature shared by all generations of the series. However, this new concept brings with it a series of technological upgrades that make it stand out.
The most notable innovation in the California Concept is the introduction of plug-in hybrid technology. For the first time, this motorhome uses a plug-in hybrid propulsion system. This not only bridges the gap to electric mobility, but also offers emission-free urban driving with pure electric range, while providing a wide overall range for long-distance travel.
The outdoor experience has also been reinvented in the California Concept. The living room and kitchen have been completely redesigned. An important addition is the sliding door on the kitchen side, which expands the vehicle’s interior space and adds a new dimension to outdoor camping. Unlike the previous model which had a front entrance on the right side, the California Concept includes an additional sliding door on the driver’s side.
Volkswagen celebrates 20 years of improving its customers’ driving techniques
This concept introduces a three-zone design, increasing the versatility of the motorhome. Zone 1 focuses on exterior entry and exit points, including sliding doors on the curb side for easy access. Zone 2 refers to the interior, featuring front seats that can be adjusted and rotated 180 degrees, providing flexible living space similar to a family van. Zone 3 adds a new dimension by including a second sliding door on the driver’s side, along with an innovative kitchen and awning design.
The interior design of the California Concept is carefully thought out. Clever storage solutions, such as drawers under the front seats that swivel and detach the rear seats, make the most of the available space. The interior is illuminated with adjustable ambient lighting, and the kitchen unit features a removable table lamp to enhance the outdoor ambiance.
In terms of comfort, the new California CONCEPT design benefits right-hand drive markets such as the UK, Australia and New Zealand, as users now have safer access from the sidewalk. The nature of a vehicle that has multiple functions, both as an everyday vehicle and as a multipurpose motorhome, is further enhanced through the three-zone concept.
“Entrepreneur. Internet fanatic. Certified zombie scholar. Friendly troublemaker. Bacon expert.”