Volkswagen updates Grand California: lithium batteries and solar panels for off-grid camping

German manufacturer Laske Expedition has introduced the Turtle E410, an off-road motorhome based on the Iveco Daily 4x4. The model features a pop-up roof, slide-out sections, a 180-hp turbodiesel, three differential locks, and a 400 Ah lithium battery. Sales are set to begin after its debut at an off-road show in Bad Kissingen, with prices starting at €345,000.

German manufacturer Vario has unveiled the Perfect 1200 QS Platinum, based on a Mercedes-Benz Actros 2553 LLL. The camper measures 12 meters in length, 2.55 meters in width, and 3.99 meters in height, with a permissible gross weight of 26,000 kg. It is powered by a 12.8-liter diesel engine producing 530 hp. The vehicle features four slide-outs that expand the living area to 32–35 square meters and a rear garage that can accommodate a Porsche 911. The base price in Germany is 1.85 million euros excluding VAT (over 2.2 million euros including VAT). A category C driving license is required.

For the 2027 model year, manufacturers of semi-integrated motorhomes focus on improved comfort and flexibility rather than radical changes. The overview lists new models from Adria to Weinsberg, with prices ranging from €55,900 to €99,900. It notes that entry-level prices are stabilizing, while options and premium versions become more expensive.

Volkswagen has confirmed the world premiere of the ID. California Cruise, the first fully factory-built electric camper in the California family, at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, running from August 28 to September 6, 2026. The project was cancelled in 2023 due to weight concerns: a standard camper fitment would have pushed the vehicle over 3,000 kg, approaching the 3,500 kg limit for a standard EU Category B license. VW says the Cruise will be the first of a new family of electric campervans arriving through 2028. Full specifications, pricing, and production details remain under embargo until August 28.

Volkswagen has announced inflatable modules for cooking and relaxation designed for the California Beach camper based on the Multivan T7. The development was carried out together with the startup Stuff Bubble. The kitchen weighs less than 10 kg, attaches to standard rails, and can be used inside and outside the vehicle. The sleeping module converts from single to double, accommodating up to four people. Installation and removal take a few minutes. This is currently a concept; a production decision will be made after the show. Volkswagen will also present the ID. California Cruise electric camper concept based on the ID. Buzz.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) has announced two new models for the Caravan Salon 2026 in Germany (August 28 – September 6): the ID. California Cruise concept based on the ID. Buzz, which will be the brand's first electric camper, and an updated California Beach featuring the world's first inflatable kitchen and a modular bed system. The inflatable kitchen weighs less than 10 kg, can be set up in minutes, and is usable both inside and outside the vehicle. The modular bed (200×134 cm) converts from a single (6 kg) to a double (12 kg) configuration. A production version of the ID. California Cruise is planned by 2028.