German motorhome industry faces slump: bankruptcies and layoffs

Carthago has unveiled its 2027 model year with refreshed design and enhanced comfort. The new models feature a hexagonal motif at the rear, LED lighting, and a black roof spoiler. Inside, there is new furniture, increased fresh water capacity up to 310-320 liters, and an extended off-grid package with a 400 Ah lithium battery.

At the Caravan Salon 2026 in Düsseldorf, Volkswagen presented the ID. California Cruise, the first fully electric model in its California camper line. Based on the ID. Buzz Pro, it is available in short (4.71 m) and long (4.96 m) wheelbases, sleeps two, and includes a bed measuring 2.03 by 1.20 meters. Standard equipment includes window blinds, ventilation grilles, camping chairs and table, plus Interior Style and Comfort packages. V2L function provides up to 3.6 kW for external devices. Range is 350–400 km in summer, dropping in winter. Price in Germany starts at 60,761 euros; deliveries begin in early 2027.

Volkswagen has officially introduced the ID. California Cruise, an electric camper based on the ID. Buzz, at the Caravan Salon 2026. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in early 2027. The model features sleeping accommodation for two, V2L capability with up to 2 kW continuous power (3.6 kW peak), and a California Mode that keeps lights and USB ports running for up to 48 hours.

At the Düsseldorf trade fair, Volkner Mobil presented the Performance S motorhome on a Volvo chassis, which became the most expensive in Europe. The 12-meter, 18-ton model features a 500-hp diesel engine, a hydraulic platform for a sports car (e.g., Porsche 911), a 10-meter slide-out section, Miele appliances, a Burmester sound system, a 50 kWh battery, and water/waste tanks. The show model costs €2,260,000; with a Porsche, €2,460,000.

Volkswagen has unveiled the ID. California Cruise, the first all-electric model in its California camper range, based on the ID. Buzz Pro and available in short- and long-wheelbase versions, with deliveries in Europe planned for 2027. The camper features a two-meter bed platform with a foldable mattress, window ventilation panels, and shades for all windows, plus a California mode for climate control, device charging, and interior lighting, and V2L capability via a PowerSocket adapter. Volkswagen has not equipped it with a kitchen or pop-up roof, and is preparing a similar ID. Buzz Tourer configuration for the U.S. market; prices have not been announced.

On the B77 near Busdorf in Schleswig-Holstein, a 600-hp electric Audi collided with an oncoming motorhome and a truck. The driver attempted an overtaking maneuver despite a prohibition and overlooked the oncoming vehicle. All four occupants in the Audi and motorhome sustained minor injuries. The road was fully closed for rescue operations.