Volkswagen Grand California gets solar panels and LiFePO4 batteries

Volkswagen has introduced a new off-grid power system for its Grand California camper. The 600 and 680 models, based on the Crafter van, can now be equipped with two 40 Ah lithium iron phosphate batteries and roof-mounted solar panels (104 W for the 600, 174 W for the 680). According to the manufacturer, the usable capacity of the new battery is about 40% higher than the previous AGM, and its service life is roughly five times longer. The system is designed to extend the time spent without external power.

Egmont Ehapa Media has announced the second volume of the special Walt Disney 'Lustiges Taschenbuch' (LTB) series focused on camping. The release is scheduled for July 21, 2026. The collection includes stories featuring Indiana Goof, the Junior Woodchucks, and other characters, along with practical outdoor tips. The price in Germany is EUR 8.99, in Austria EUR 9.50, and in Switzerland CHF 14.90.

Pössl has introduced the Vario 545, a short campervan measuring 5.41 m in length with a GRP high roof. The price starts at €61,999 (as of July 2026), about €2,000 less than the 2025 model. Standard layout sleeps two, optional up to five. It is based on Citroën Jumper, Fiat Ducato or Peugeot Boxer chassis with a 2.2-litre turbodiesel (140 hp) and 6-speed manual gearbox.

For the 2027 State Garden Show in Bad Windsheim, the motorhome harbor (Reisemobilhafen) will be converted into an exclusive parking area within the show grounds. Day tickets and thermal bath specials will be included. Some previously planned facilities will not be built.

Skoda has added a 'Camp Mode' to the MySkoda app that automatically maintains the selected interior temperature during overnight stays in an electric vehicle. The feature is available for all Skoda electric models (Epiq, Elroq, Enyaq, Peaq) with app version 8.14, provided Skoda Connect services are activated and the traction battery has at least 30% charge (20% according to Peaq press materials). Previously, the app already enabled remote charging control, pre-conditioning, route planning, and vehicle status monitoring.

A 2023 Volkswagen Grand California 600 with 38,000 km is listed for €59,900 in Germany. The price is about €20,000 less than a new equivalent. The camper has a 177 hp diesel, 8-speed automatic, full driver assistance suite, and sleeping for four.