Volkswagen revives electric camper idea based on ID. Buzz

German company Rhon Camp presented the new The Core camper at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, based on a standard Mercedes-Benz Sprinter measuring 5.93 meters in length and less than 2 meters in width. Thanks to an aerodynamic high roof made of fiberglass, the vehicle accommodates five full sleeping places, including a separate sleeping area on the 'second floor'. The camper features an induction hob and compressor refrigerator powered by a lithium battery, eliminating the need for gas cylinders. The base version will have a 190-hp engine and automatic transmission, with an all-wheel-drive option increasing the gross weight to 4.1 tons. Prices have not been announced yet.

Bürstner expands its B66 range with the B66 640C, a 6.36-meter camper van featuring twin beds. Standard equipment includes automatic transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels, Lanzarote metallic paint, an exterior awning, and a multimedia system with rear-view camera. The price is €64,490. The beds are 91 cm wide and 205 cm long on the right side, 185 cm on the left. The washroom uses the Vario system, providing a full shower. Options include a Truma Combi 6DE heater, pop-up roof, and leather upholstery. The range also adds the B66 644C with a U-shaped rear lounge and a roof bed.

At the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, opening August 28, Volkswagen will unveil the ID California Cruise concept, an electric version of its camper van. However, launching such a vehicle faces significant challenges: plant closures, loss of space due to batteries, and a lack of charging infrastructure at campsites. Moreover, the vanlife market remains heavily diesel-oriented, and the hybrid version of the current California sells poorly.

A Czech company has introduced a compact sleeping cabin that mounts on a standard trailer. In the Czech Republic, the unit is classified as cargo, so it requires no technical inspection and can be towed by a regular car. In Germany, however, improper attachment could lead to legal issues. Speed limits also differ from neighboring countries.

Motorhome manufacturers offer hundreds of layout combinations, ranging from 5.4 to 8 meters in length, with various bathroom, sleeping, and kitchen options. Experts advise beginners to focus on five key aspects: bathroom functionality, seating comfort, pros and cons of drop-down beds, number of windows, and kitchen practicality. It is recommended to visit the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf to compare different models before purchasing.

The Prignitz region in Germany now has 25 official motorhome sites, including new ones in Wittenberge and Pritzwalk. Pritzwalk has installed new service columns for water and waste. Private sites, such as a meadow in Lenzen, offer free overnight stays.