Volkswagen unveils its first electric California camper
By Anthony Sharkey, Chief Operating Officer, New Reg Limited
Volkswagen has revealed the ID. California Cruise, its first fully electric campervan, built on the ID. Buzz Pro platform and priced from around 60,800 euros.
Volkswagen has launched the ID. California Cruise, marking the first time the iconic California camper name has been applied to a fully electric vehicle, with the new model bringing off-grid camping capability to the battery-powered ID. Buzz platform.
The ID. California Cruise is based on the longer ID. Buzz Pro, meaning it inherits that vehicle's electric drivetrain and architecture. According to multiple reports, the camper is priced from around 60,800 euros, positioning it firmly in the premium segment of the leisure vehicle market.
One of the more practical features highlighted across reports is vehicle-to-load functionality, which allows the van's battery to supply power to external accessories and camping equipment. This means owners can run lights, small appliances or other kit directly from the car without needing a separate power source, making the setup genuinely useful for extended trips away from mains electricity.
The arrival of the ID. California Cruise represents a significant moment for the California line, which has long been associated with the combustion-engined Transporter and Multivan. The electric version brings that heritage into the zero-emission era, offering a route into off-grid travel for drivers who want the flexibility of a camper without relying on fossil fuels.