VW ID. California Cruise: Electric camper starting at 60,761 euros
Volkswagen is showcasing the ID. California Cruise at the 2026 Caravan Salon, the first all-electric version of the California model based on the ID. Buzz Pro. This two-seater camper starts at 60,761 euros, with deliveries beginning in early 2027.
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Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge is presenting the ID. California Cruise at the 2026 Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf. It represents the first all-electric model in the California series, built on the ID. Buzz Pro which is available with either a short or long wheelbase. The price is at least 60,761 euros, with the first deliveries scheduled for early 2027. The manufacturer plans to expand the electric California lineup with additional models by 2028.
The series has been around since 1988 and has been designed differently across several generations — from campers with pop-up roofs to beach versions featuring a simplified interior layout. Volkswagen explicitly draws on this second approach for the new model: The 2004 concept car California Beach already demonstrated that the concept doesn’t necessarily have to be defined by a specific roof design. Accordingly, the ID. California Cruise does not come with a pop-up roof.
Sleeping system and camping equipment
The interior features a sleeping area for two people, measuring 2.03 meters in length and 1.20 meters in width. It includes a newly developed comfort folding mattress that is nine centimeters thick. Standard equipment also includes ventilation grills for the front side windows, tinting elements for all glass panels, as well as two camping chairs and a camping table. Those who order the optional panoramic glass roof receive the appropriate tinting for it automatically. According to the manufacturer, all these components can be stored compactly inside the vehicle.
The Cruise differs visually through seat covers in the “Miwo” design with an integrated California logo, a California logo at the rear, and unique “Cruise” decals on the sides of the vehicle. Compared to the base model, additional standard features include the Interior Style Package, the Comfort Package, and the PowerSocket, which serves as a charging adapter for the Vehicle-to-Load function.
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California Mode and Onboard Electrical System
A new feature is the California Mode, developed specifically for camping. An additional control unit manages lighting and comfort functions, provides continuous power to the USB ports, and prepares the interior for nighttime use. The air conditioning can heat or cool the interior as needed. Volkswagen cites a continuous operation time of up to 48 hours, but notes that this figure depends on the battery charge level and the temperature difference with the outside environment.
The Vehicle-to-Load function is available for powering external devices. The manufacturer specifies a continuous power output of up to 2,000 watts and a peak power output of 3.6 kW. This allows items such as coffee makers, kettles, electric stoves, refrigerators, lighting, or chargers for e-bikes and e-scooters to be powered directly from the high-voltage battery. A mobile workspace or outdoor kitchen can also be operated this way without external grid power.
Charging and Itinerary Planning
Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge does not provide information on battery capacity, range, or maximum charging power in the announcement. Technically, these values are consistent with those of the underlying ID. Buzz Pro. Instead, two software features are described: The ID. California Cruise supports Plug & Charge via the Volkswagen app, allowing charging to begin at compatible charging stations as soon as the cable is connected, without the need for separate authentication.
In addition, the manufacturer is expanding the California app with features for electric travel. For the first time, suitable charging stations along the route are displayed during route planning, allowing trips to be planned in advance including necessary stops for charging. The app is free and also provides information on vehicle functions and camping equipment. It is intended to be available for future electric California models as well.
The vehicle will be on display from August 28 to September 6, 2026, in Hall 16 at the trade fair grounds in Düsseldorf, where Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will showcase the entire California family. The Bulli has been produced for over 75 years, with vehicles of this brand being manufactured at sites in Hannover, Poznań, and Września.
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