Volkswagen Previews New Generation Of California Camper Van

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will present a new generation of the California camper van at the Caravan Salon trade fair that begins on August 25 in Dusseldorf, Germany. The premiere of this new concept follows over three decades of California camper vans that have provided a home on wheels for people who enjoy the great outdoors. And, if available here, many would consider it over theFord Transit Trail Camper Van.

Volkswagen shared only two digital renderings of the new California Concept, which looks like the mature, serious uncle of the youthfulID.Buzzthat will be sold in the United States. The usual side sliding door and rooftop tent can be seen in these early visuals, and the neat front fascia keeps it simple.

A second image with the caption "smart camping" and a digital display shows how much the California has moved on from its humble roots, though. This digital panel - which either forms a permanent part of the California Concept's interior but also appears to be a removable tablet - contains settings for climate, lighting, a cooling box, and camping modes.

We presume this screen is linked to the interactive "California on Tour" app with features like a campsite search tool and a trip planner. This app is already available for the VW California 6.1 van sold in Europe and other regions.

The other big news is that the Hanover-built California Concept will introduce a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time, but its outputs aren't known at this stage. VW points out that the silent driving mode of the new camper will suit campsites, where you'll be able to drive off quietly without disturbing anyone or anything - be it humans or wildlife.

Based on the long Multivan, the new California should have plenty of room for passengers and cargo. As far as features go, the existing California 6.1 can be had with equipment like a loft bed, an electro-hydraulic pop-up roof, a full aluminum kitchen, and camping chairs with a matching table. These are some of the features we can expect in the new California Concept.