VW California Goes Electric

It’s taken four years, but finally the VW ID. Buzz has an official California camper edition.

The new ID. California Cruise comes in regular and long-wheelbase editions, and the key feature is a folding bed that’s a decent 1.2m wide and 2m in length. The mattress is designed to sit on top of the folded rear seats, so it’s not a ‘rock’n’roll’ unit, as seen in many VW conversions.

Neither does the California Cruise come with a kitchen or washing facilities, although, as it’s completely electric, its vehicle-to-load function means you can power a coolbox, kettle or even an air-fryer to feed hungry campers.

Only two will be able to sleep inside, but they should get a good night’s Zs in as there are ventilation grilles and blackout covers for all the windows, with special storage spaces inside to keep them when not in use. There’s also a California mode for the heating and air conditioning so it can be used when the car isn’t driving. VW also offers a camping table and chairs that slot in with the mattress so you can enjoy the outdoors.

The ID. California Cruise is available with a 79 kWh or 86 kWh battery with a maximum range of 275-or-so miles if you opt for the bigger pack. It can recharge at up to 200 kW as well, so long distance road trips are a viable option.

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