The ID.California arrives, the camper version of the electric van from Volkswagen

The arrival of the ID.Buzz van has been an interesting bet for Volkswagen, as it is the adaptation to electric mobility of a classic of the brand. And if a classic van with an electric drivetrain is coming, the camper version of the model could not be missing. It will arrive from 2025 and, although there are no details about the version, we have some data to imagine how this variant will look.

The images are not official, but were created as a sample, anticipating its look, on the Carscoops website. Basically, they have transferred all the features of the California kit to the ID.Buzz, which is not very complicated. The main visible element of the model will be the pop-up roof.

This is a constant in the design of the California version and serves to clear space at the rear of the van, as it includes an outdoor double bed. To continue the electrified theme, it is likely that this pop-up roof will have an electric device to open and close it.

Another element that will be incorporated into this variant is the retractable awning that creates a pleasant terrace. As for the interior, it may be fitted with a kitchen, possibly gas-powered, with a sink. It will also include a water tank and storage compartments for everything needed to spend a few days camping.

As for the seats, these will be modular and can be configured in different ways to create a practical space during the occupants’ rest periods.

Regarding the technological setup, no changes are expected and all the elements of the ID.Buzz will be retained. This will include the 10-inch screen for the instrument cluster and another 12-inch screen for the infotainment system. The materials used will be vegan and other recycled elements. The cabin will have several USB ports to facilitate charging mobile devices.

Powertrain and battery

The California version is expected to be built on the long-wheelbase version of the ID.Buzz. This will allow not only more space, but also the fitting of higher-capacity batteries, probably 111 kWh. This will help offset the added weight of the camping equipment and maintain range or even increase it in some cases.

The motor offered by the ID.Buzz reaches 150 kW, that is, 200 CV, and a maximum torque of 310 Nm, which allows it to move with ease even with that extra weight added.

Information coming from the brand indicates that this version will be ready for the second half of the decade. That said, the long-wheelbase version will be presented in 2024, so it is possible that on that date we may already see a first concept model of the camper version.