volkswagen travel bus

The 2025 ID. Buzz Electric Bus   Coming late fall 2024, starting at $59,995 ⁠ 2  

Peace, love and happiness.

The ID. Buzz may be electric , but it still embodies the spirit of the original. With three rows that offer six and seven seat configurations, it’s spacious enough to fit your whole crew. While taking you just about wherever you want to go. And that available two-tone paint? It’s a nod to the vintage style that made the bus so recognizable. So go ahead, pack up and hit the open road. The ID. Buzz is ready for any adventure. 

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The ID. Buzz is so animated. Literally. It has its very own Giphy Sticker pack.

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When will the ID. Buzz arrive at dealers in the U.S.?

 The ID. Buzz will arrive at dealers in 2024. Fill out the short form on the ID. Buzz page on vw.com to get updates prior to the ID. Buzz arrival.

How big is the ID. Buzz ?

The ID. Buzz is about the same length and width as our Atlas Cross Sport. It is roughly 195” in length, 78” in width and 75” in height. The wheelbase is roughly 128” long.

What’s the seating capacity?

The ID. Buzz will have a maximum of 7 seats.

What are the trim levels?

Stay tuned for more information on trim levels and options.

Will the ID. Buzz be available in both AWD & RWD?

Yes, the ID. Buzz will be available in RWD & AWD.

What’s the difference in performance between the AWD & RWD?

Stay tuned for more information on performance .

What is the battery size?

The ID. Buzz will have a 91 kWh battery (gross).

Will the ID. Buzz have different battery options to choose from?

The ID. Buzz will only come with the 91 kWh battery.

What will the range be?

We do not have any figures to share at the moment .

Will the ID. Buzz come with a charger?

Stay tuned for more information on standard equipment and features .

Will an Electrify America charging plan be included in the purchase price?

Stay tuned for more information on owner benefits .

What’s the difference between the European and U.S. versions of the ID. Buzz ?

The European version has two rows and a shorter wheelbase than the three-row version sold in the U.S.

Why the delay in availability between the European and U.S. versions of the ID. Buzz ?

The plan was always for the two-row version to go on sale first, with the three-row version later. We also wanted to ensure we made the right tweaks for the U.S. market.

Does the U.S. market also get the shorter wheelbase version of the ID. Buzz available in Europe?

Only the long-wheelbase passenger version of the ID. Buzz will be sold in the U.S.

Why isn’t the U.S. getting the shorter wheelbase version?

We believe most Americans will prefer the seating capacity, storage space and battery capacity made possible by the three-row version.

How much will the ID. Buzz cost?

Pricing will be announced at a later date.

Is the ID. Buzz eligible for federal tax credits?

Since the ID. Buzz will be assembled outside of North America, its purchase will not qualify for a federal tax credit .  

However, if you choose to lease, we anticipate that Volkswagen Credit will offer an EV Lease Bonus based on the federal tax credits available at the time of lease, though no final decisions have been made at this time. 

What are the core competitors in the U.S.?

We honestly don’t think there are currently any competitors.

Where and when can I test drive the ID. Buzz ?

We expect to host test drive events in 2024. Sign up on vw.com to be notified of the dates and locations.

Can I reserve the ID. Buzz ?

We will not be taking reservations for the ID. Buzz . However, you can ask your nearest dealer to let you know when they have an ID. Buzz available.

If I'm interested in the ID. Buzz , what should I do?

Fill out the short form on the ID. Buzz page on vw.com. We’ll use this information to send you regular email updates . 

You can also ask your nearest dealer to let you know when they have an ID. Buzz available.

Free your mind with Wrapmate custom graphics program 

We started the revolution, now it’s your turn—customize your ID. Buzz with Wrapmate’s 3D configurator. Play with creative graphics and two-tone half-wraps to generate a look that’s as electric as your personality

People are talking about the ID.4 EV, too.

What’s not to talk about? The ID.4 has been intelligently designed from the outside in. Speaking of the inside, there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the views. Especially with the available panoramic fixed glass roof. In fact, you can go sightseeing without ever leaving the car. Up for something different?

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2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz

• We get behind the wheel of the production version of the ID. Buzz
• Fully electric van with charming, voluminous interior
• U.S. model comes with a third row and more potent powertrain
• Kicks off the first ID. Buzz generation for 2025

2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Review

What is the ID. Buzz?

The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a fully electric small van that harkens back to the original VW Microbus — a cultural icon of the 1960s and '70s for its representation of a free and adventurous lifestyle. The front end's upright styling is clearly meant to evoke the style of Microbus, and you might see some 1990s VW Eurovan here too. But otherwise the ID. Buzz is fully modern and offers the latest in EV technology.

The ID. Buzz shares its fundamental architecture with other electric vehicles from the Volkswagen Group lineup, including the ID.4 and Audi Q4 e-tron SUVs. What you get from picking the ID. Buzz over those models — besides a healthy dose of nostalgia — is extra family-oriented practicality. All U.S.-bound ID. Buzz models will feature three rows of seats.

Volkswagen plans to make its first U.S. deliveries at the end of this year.

What's powering the ID. Buzz?

The ID. Buzz is motivated by a battery pack with 86 kWh of usable capacity (91 kWh gross). It powers a single motor to drive the rear wheels. The single electric motor in the RWD van develops 282 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque to motivate this rather hefty van to a top speed of 99 mph. A dual-motor model will be available at launch with 335 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, in addition to providing all-wheel-drive traction.

How does the ID. Buzz drive?

We've only driven the two-row European-market ID. Buzz so far, which is shorter and less powerful than the three-row U.S. version. The Euro ID. Buzz utilizes a single rear motor fed by an 82-kWh battery pack and develops 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. It has a Volkswagen-estimated top speed of 90 mph.

Here's a backhanded compliment: The ID. Buzz is a lot quicker than any of the original VW Microbuses. Tooling around town at lower speeds is where the Buzz is at its best — you have instant access to torque to get you moving quickly. But the 201 hp in the European version we drove is just not a whole lot considering the ID. Buzz's heft. The Buzz's power deficit is most noticeable in trying to reach highway speeds quickly or, worse, when trying to pass at highway speeds. We look forward to driving the higher-horsepower U.S. version soon.

Volkwagen states that accelerating to 62 mph (100 km/h) from a standstill takes 10.2 seconds in the Euro van, which is pretty slow by modern minivan standards and even slower by current EV standards. We expect the North American ID. Buzz to be significantly quicker, though VW isn't quoting acceleration times just yet. In Edmunds' instrumented testing, it takes the average minivan 7.9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, while mainstream EVs, on average, require only 7.5 seconds. Weight, of course, plays a large part. The single-motor ID. Buzz nearly outclasses all rivals when it comes to power, but it's also much heavier. The European version already weighs 600-700 pounds more than rivals, and its stretched American cousin with a larger battery pack will undoubtedly prove even heftier. We're also not in love with the brakes — it can be hard to stop smoothly. The regenerative braking won't bring you to a full stop either.

On the upside, the ID. Buzz has relatively taut handling for a van. Credit goes to the floor-mounted battery pack that keeps the van's center of gravity low. It's not sporty, but it is easy to wheel around town. It also has a ridiculously tight turning circle that'll make you want to do U-turns all day.

How comfortable is the ID. Buzz?

The ID. Buzz is fairly comfortable, but there's room for improvement. We like that the front seats are well cushioned and decently adjustable, from four-way lumbar support to an extendable lower thigh cushion for those with longer legs. Our European-spec test van had seat heaters and even provided a light seat massage via pneumatic bladders in the cushions. For those of us living in sunnier places, though, a seat ventilation option would be nice.

The second-row seat cushions might even be more comfortable than the front. The middle row features a 60/40-split design, which limits individual adjustability, but it does offer a ton of legroom. Each section of the bench can slide forward or back and recline. Unique to the U.S. ID. Buzz is the third row. Sure, it's not as cozy as the other two rows but it is far from a penalty box. Once adjusted to the right spot, we found that a 6-foot-tall adult could comfortably sit behind another 6-footer in both the second and third rows. Hair brushed the ceiling in the back row and the seat cushioning was a bit more firm, but it's manageable for a short trip. It also reclines. Add in air vents stationed to satiate those rearmost passengers and it makes for an overall cozy cabin.

The ride quality if you're in the front is pretty decent since you're closer to the middle of the Buzz's long wheelbase. But the ride definitely feels a bit stiff in the second row. Packed with rear passengers and cargo, though, we'd expect the rear suspension to cope better since it's crafted to handle a large load.

We found the cabin to be fairly well insulated against all types of noises. There was a bit of wind noise at the front while we were driving down the highway, and tire noise was largely dependent on the surface texture of the road, but it was easy to carry a conversation at any point without having to raise our voices.

How's the ID. Buzz's interior?

The exterior design of the ID. Buzz is certainly eye-catching, but we think we might like the interior design even more. The model we drove was packed with personality — it featured a wide range of textures, wood-grain patterns and pastel colors throughout the interior. Like french fries and ice cream, it sounds like it shouldn't work but it's surprisingly good. There are also playful icons, including several Easter eggs — ID. Buzz silhouettes — and even an embossed smiley face to liven up lowly door-trim screw caps. We also love VW's clever "Play" and "Pause" symbols on the accelerator and brake pedals. The ID. Buzz may win over buyers on charisma alone.

Charisma aside, we do think the amount of hard plastics used throughout the interior detract from the stunning design. With the exception of the armrests, seats and headliner, nearly all of the touchpoints in the ID. Buzz cabin are hard plastic. We think there are smart ways around all this plastic without raising costs too much (just look at any new Kia or Hyundai interior) and implementing them in the ID. Buzz would go a long way.

Space, however, is a major strength in the ID. Buzz. The short-wheelbase version that we sampled initially had plenty of room for taller drivers and passengers in both rows. As noted, the three-row U.S. version has even more. The second row slides forward or backward a few inches, and the seatbacks recline, allowing passengers to find a comfortable position. VW makes good use of the extended-wheelbase van, which is almost 10 inches longer than its two-row counterpart. For example, the dual power-sliding side doors open far enough that adults can access the third row with relative ease. Just mind the entry via that 60 side of the 60/40 bench because it is heavy.

How's the ID. Buzz's tech?

The ID. Buzz comes standard with a 12.9-inch central infotainment display screen. There is also a small digital display in front of the driver to show speed, battery levels, navigation and other information.

The overall look is very similar to that of the ID.4 and carries forward a major complaint that we've had in recent Volkswagen models: an absence of physical buttons and dials. It opts instead for capacitive touch controls. They tend to lack responsiveness, sometimes require tapping over and over again, and can generally be frustrating to use. The ID. Buzz we drove had the latest software and indeed seemed to have snappier input response, but fundamental operation is still much more finicky than it should be. At this point we're not entirely confident this issue is something that can be solved solely through software updates.

IQ.Drive, VW's advanced driver aid suite, is here as well. We like how the majority of the aids operate. Adaptive cruise control, for instance, is pretty handy especially in slow-moving traffic. Lane keeping assistance, though, was too quick to intervene, and we had to disable it every time we powered up the car. The ability to store your system settings is something we hope to see in the future.

How's the ID. Buzz's storage?

Storage is one of the main reasons to consider buying an ID. Buzz. Up front, there are large pockets and rubberized trays to store small items, including a deep well next to the steering wheel for slipping your smartphone inside vertically. USB charge ports abound as well, with four ports up front and one at each sliding door in the back. There is also a center storage bin that features folding openings at the front and rear and configurable cupholders, and it can be fully removed very easily to create a clear path to the second row. We're pretty interested to see what sort of accessories or attachments the aftermarket cooks up for that spot.

The cargo area behind the second row of seats is inarguably large, though we don't have official specs yet. The van's upright shape gives it a low load floor and high ceiling. There's also a wide opening and deep volume from the hatch to the rear seats. Adding a third row of seats will certainly have some effect on cargo space, but we're confident the space should still be pretty ample. The second row splits and folds down, and the third row does the same, to create a flat load space over the seatbacks. Perfect for, say, a small van-sized mattress of sorts.

How economical is the ID. Buzz?

When it comes to electric vehicles, range is the number that people focus on over efficiency, mainly because the cost of electricity is still a fraction of what we pay to fill up a gas tank. The EPA estimates the single-motor rear-wheel-drive ID. Buzz can travel 234 miles on a full charge. Considering its battery has 86 kWh of usable capacity, this translates to a consumption rating of 37 kWh/100 miles. Surprisingly, the much more potent dual-motor model is only slightly less efficient, netting 231 miles on a full charge, per the EPA.

In the real-world Edmunds EV Range Test, we've seen on average 13% more range in the ID.4 than its EPA estimate. So it's possible we could see the same performance results out of the ID. Buzz.

As far as charging goes, the ID. Buzz will be able to support up to 11 kW of Level 2 AC charging, as well as 170 kW at a DC fast charger. In terms of time, you'll be able to charge from zero to 100% in a few as 7.5 hours at home and from 5% battery to 80% capacity in as little as 30 minutes given the right conditions at a DC fast charger.

Am I Ready for an EV?

• EV ownership works best if you can charge (240V) at home or at work This typically means a 240V home installation, but you could also have a similar setup at your office or other places your car is already parked for several hours each day. Don't expect a regular household outlet (120V) to suffice unless you've got a plug-in hybrid, in which case overnight charging at home is feasible.
• If you can’t charge at home, charging at a charging station could take at least 10x longer than at a gas station With public charging infrastructure still in its infancy, the user experience can be maddeningly inconsistent. Tesla owners tend to rave about the reliability and speed of the company's proprietary Supercharger stations, but rival DC fast options have thus far been plagued by technical issues and overcrowding. It's an evolving landscape and our best advice is to do your research on the available options for the EV you want to buy.
• Adding a 240V home charging system could cost up to $1,600 or more If your existing electrical service can handle the additional demands of EV charging, you may be able to add Level 2 charging at home for less than a grand, including installation. But your costs will multiply if you need to upgrade your electrical panel or add a dedicated circuit.

Edmunds says

There is a major cool factor with the ID. Buzz. It preserves enough of the original Microbus' mojo and packages it into something that looks thoroughly modern and is extremely versatile. In person, its charm is undeniable, even with some of the cheap interior plastics and glitchy electronics. And though it's far from the quickest EV or minivan, the ID. Buzz is destined to have a massive cult following when it eventually arrives in North America at the end of this year.

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Volkswagen’s Electric ID Buzz Has Landed and Looks Well Worth the Wait

Yes, it's finally here. After years of glimpses and half reveals, Volkswagen has taken the covers off the production version of its all-electric ID Buzz. And like all the EVs we like most here at WIRED, it's got character—bags of it. Probably a lot more than can be squeezed into its microbus proportions.

With a flat front, long wheelbase, short overhangs, and a styling that pleasingly echoes the hippie bus of old, the ID Buzz is a world way from VW's more recent, not entirely successful, forays in EV van territory . Despite the VW T1, or “Bulli,” looks, this multipurpose vehicle is actually based on the same platform as the ID.3 electric hatchback. This means the ID Buzz has a 201-bhp, 150-kW electric motor driving the rear wheels. The on-board battery is 77 kWh, and while there isn't a confirmed range for the ID Buzz yet, we can expect around 250 miles.

The ID Buzz, left, has space for families and luggage while the ID Buzz Cargo fits two 1,200- by 800-mm pallets.

The ID Buzz people carrier and ID Buzz Cargo van also have 170-kW charging, so that battery can be charged from 5 to 80 percent in 30 minutes if you can find a powerful charger. The Buzz also apes the skill we like best on the Kia EV6 , as both models will have bi-directional charging as standard. What does this mean? Not only should you be able to use your Buzz to power household appliances like a juicer or blender or TV, you can, in theory, put power back into the grid. Indeed, VW is even suggesting owners can use the feature to cut energy bills, by charging a Buzz during the day on cheap electricity, then feed this back into your home storage battery (if you have one) for use in the evening. The power transfer and auto communication to do this take place via a special DC bi-directional wall box.

Production of the ID Buzz begins later this year, with first deliveries due in the autumn in Europe. For those obsessives waiting for the all-electric ID Buzz California camper van, that likely won't be surfacing until 2025 at the earliest. For now, the people-carrying Buzz will have to do.

Look at that lovely interior made with “non-animal” material!

But there's a lot of detail here to celebrate. In the Buzz there's room for five people and their luggage, with 1,121 liters (40 cubic feet) of capacity. If the second row of seats is folded, that capacity increases to up to 2,205 liters (78 cubic feet). You get the choice of either two or three seats up front. For Cargo users, a fixed partition separates you from the 3.9-cubic-meter (138-cubic-foot) rear space.

Despite a length of 4,712 millimeters (186 inches), the long wheelbase combined with the motor at the rear means the Buzz has an impressive turning radius of just over 11 meters (36 feet)—about the same as a Golf. And, perhaps most important of all when it comes to things that drain EV batteries , VW's multipurpose vehicle quite improbably has the drag coefficient of a car. The ID Buzz's drag stats come in at 0.285 (0.29 for the Cargo), which should reduce energy consumption and increase range.

Both Buzzes have the same drag coefficient as a normal car.

The inside seems to be a particular success. Leather has been shunned for “non-animal” material. Appointments include high seat positions, comfy-looking armrests, storage trays aplenty, and more ports than you can shake a USB stick at: five in the Cargo and eight in the Buzz. The “Digital Cockpit” in front of the driver is a 5.30-inch display, and in the middle of the dash is the infotainment system touchscreen that can be specced up to 12 inches. Most physical switches are eliminated, as the car relies on haptic buttons and screens for the majority of functions. Thankfully, VW is saying it has improved the responsiveness of its haptics, which is a good thing if the past models are anything to go by. You can set the ambient lighting to 30 different colors.

And at the highest specification level, the ID Buzz will have more than 30 assist systems on board, including “Car2X” communication. The Buzz will download data via the cloud from nearby Volkswagens and supposedly learn of hazards or traffic nearby. And a “memory function” will let you teach your van tricky maneuvers such as parking on your steep drive or negotiating the parking lot at work. You do it once, then the Buzz does it each time after that, recalling your precise inputs on the steering and pedals.

No, there aren't any confirmed prices yet, and, yes, it does have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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The Best VW Camper Van Rentals Across the USA

Explore closer to home without going full #Vanlife in a universally loved bit of German engineering, Volkswagen

Photo Credit: James Barkman

Co-written by Geoff Nudelman

When many think of a “camper van” they typically imagine a tricked out Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit van with all the bells and whistles, plus space for all of that weekend gear—and likely a very Good Dog, too.

But there’s a quirkier, more simple side to living the road life, and it’s been “a thing” loooong before #vanlife ever became one. We’re talking about the veritable Volkswagen van (or bus), of course. No matter the format—bus, Westfalia, or Vanagon—there’s a dedicated community of enthusiasts, and rental services, keeping the tradition alive since the 1940s.

Today, there are no shortage of VW camper van rental companies in every corner of the US offering a perfectly modest, low-speed approach to van camping for those not quite ready for the reality of full time #vanlife . As one of our featured van’s owners, Duke Geren, puts it: “These vehicles were never meant to go fast. If you’re doing 400, 500, 600 miles a day, you’re missing the point.”

Scroll on for our top picks of VW camper vans to rent near you. And yes, they are all named. So read on and don't forget Duke's wise words.

A Brief History of the VW Camper Van

In the begining, Volkswagen originally had two models—the appropriately named Type 1 and Type 2. The first, Type 1, is what we commonly and fondly call the Beetle. Type 2 is the microbus so popular with hippies from the 60s and campers of today (as shown in this very article lead image). Two models of the type two—the Combi, short for “combined-use vehicle", and Splittie, named for its split windshield—went into production on March 8, 1950.

Before long, many VW van owners and outdoor enthusiasts started converting their Type 2’s into camper vans. Soon after bringing the first Type 2 vans to market, VW joined forces with a company called Westfalia to produce camper van conversion kits, originally called the Camping Box. These camper van conversion kits essentially turned a VW van into a tiny home on wheels.

The first VW Westfalia campers made it to U.S. shores in 1956 and remained popular until production of the VW camper van was halted on December 31, 2013. Though with the recent resurgence in popularity, it's no surprise rumor has it that VW is working on an electric version due to make its appearance in late 2022.

Where to Find VW Camper Van Rentals

Below, duh! Jokes aside, there are numerous VW camper van rental companies around North America and beyond. Some are private companies, while others are booking sites similar to accommodation booking sites that represent various companies. You can also find some sites that only rent out VW camper vans.

Smaller, independent companies will likely require you to collect and return the camper in the area where they are based—perfect for those excitedly typying “camper van rental near me" into google. Larger companies might have multiple depots throughout a region or around the country. This is great if you don’t plan on starting and ending your journey in the same place.

Vintage vehicle rental is a niche market with a limited number of vehicles available. While you could come across a great deal for a spontaneous road trip or camping trip, you will need to book a VW camper far ahead of time if you plan on going on an adventure during busier times. If you are specifically looking for a vintage VW camper, try searching: “vintage VW camper van rental” or “VW camper van vintage.” wink wink

Model: 1986 Westfalia Synchro

Company: trickster trips (anchorage).

Named for Polychrome Pass inside Denali National Park , Poly has a self-described “beefy” heater, which stands up to the frigid mettle of the 49th state. She’s equipped with 4WD and has a long history of cruising Alaska through prior ownership and rental use. Where will you take her next?

Model: 1985 Westfalia Weekender

Company: black forest westfalias (seattle).

Some owners have built more utility and off-road capability into their vans. “It's really quite amazing where these 2WDs can go with a few upgrades,” says Mike Kane, owner of Black Forest Westfalias. Wolf was purchased in 2015 from a painter and went through a complete overhaul—lift and rebuild with an awning and full cooking setup included. This is the van that gets into those nooks and crannies Sprinter vans can only dream about.

Model: 1989 Vanagon

Company: go camp camper vans (portland & beyond).

Go Camp is a relatively new company, taking on a more regional approach to the “ Airbnb ” shared rental model. For example, Maupin is actually owned by enthusiast Duke Geren (see above) and is rented to adventurers in the Portland area for short periods. In his van, he added a variety of creature comforts including interior LED lighting and Bluetooth audio capabilities. As their site says, the van came from the airline industry, so it’s built to serve.

Model: 1990 Wesfalia

Company: outwesty (tahoe city).

This simple van arrived at Outwesty with 270,000 miles on the clock and faded paint. The company completely stripped it, installed a new engine, transmission, cooling system, and an array of other mechanical components before wrapping adding a fresh coat of silver. She’s known for having “a lot of soul” and Outwesty is proud of the retrofitting they’ve done, saying that “perhaps this is how Westfalia should have done it from the beginning.” We can't argue with that.

Model: 1966 Bus T1 “Splittie”

Company: retro vws (hurricane).

Early-era VW buses have enjoyed a major rise in value over the last few years, which makes it all the more amazing that this WWII fighter plane inspired, lifted, split-window (hence the nickname) van is available for daily rental. VW only made the split-window van from 1950-67 and they become harder to find each year. If the military paint is a little too loud for your taste, they have more traditional options in orange and green, too.

Model: 1991 Westfalia

Company: vango rental (st. paul).

Cruisin’ Rex has a history of helping others. She was once rented by a vet and her 14-year-old shepherd dog. The vet made an extra effort to build a proper ramp to help her dog into and out of the van for a final trip north, so it's dog friendly. Though with only a bare basic buildout, this van is meant more for minimalist car campers than those wanting a rig to be the star of the show. Aka look elsewhere for that perfect sparkle light, "I woke up here" photo opp.

Model: 1990 Westfalia

Company: vintage van adventures (brunswick).

Currently on a nine-week adventure through Maine with an artist/journalist, this automatic (read: rare) van has Floridian roots, but its heart is in the Pine Tree State. The rental company’s owner bought it from a local VW “guru” who rebuilds and sends engines for these beasts all over the world. The Westfalia has around 180,000 miles in total and a recently updated interior with a two-burner stove, 10-gallon sink, and two 6’ x 4’ beds. New England Van Life at its purist.

Massachusetts

Model: 1972 to 1985 westfalia & vanagon, company: outdoorsy.

If you’re in the Boston area, you’ve got a few different options, all within driving distance. For the traditional set, go for a 1980 Vanagon with sweet modern walnut cabinetry and 2WD badging on the side. Want something a little different? There’s a 1979 Westfalia with a … “floral” print … and a sink installed behind the driver’s seat. This one is all custom and the ingenuity is almost worth the price of admission itself.

Model: 1978 Westfalia

Company: florida oldscool campers (tampa/st. petersburg).

VW rentals are hard to find in the Southeastern US, which makes this company’s lineup—which includes the very lovely Jasmine, above—all the more special. This late 70s edition originally came from Asheville, NC and sports a loud green & yellow plaid interior that's perfectly matched by the “hum” of the engine, which runs “a little louder than other buses,” according to the company. There are likely few better ways to cruise down Highway 1 through the Keys.

Model: 1971 Van

Company: hawaii surf campers (o’ahu).

This bright van had a long life as a haole before being brought to O’ahu by Hawaii Surf Campers (HSC) in January. Once on the island, the company (which has a separate conversion business for those already with a van) cleaned up the interior, lightened up the exterior green paint, and made several other adjustments that are pretty standard when getting an early '70s Bus seaworthy—err roadworthy—again. The van has relatively low wear given Hawaii’s recent travel restrictions and HSC hopes to get her back on the road soon.

Now that you've browsed the listings and decided what you like and don't like, we'll dig into a few more broad but important questions on the mind of many looking for a VW camper van in the USA or abroad.

Are VW camper vans worth the money?

Good question. And a tough one to answer, as "worth" is entirely subjective when it comes to dealing with older vehicles. Doing a road trip or camping trip in a VW camper van is all about the journey, the adventure, really. Because there are a limited number of VW camper vans available for rent, a well-maintained van could cost the same (if not slightly more) than a hotel room. Still, renting a camper van gives you the freedom and flexibility to make your home for the night wherever you find yourself on the road.

Keep in mind that, due to age and the boxy shape of classic VW camper vans, they have a lower gas mileage than more modern vehicles. Most VW busses’ gas mileage is around 15 to 20 miles per gallon. This will need to be calculated into your daily budget.

Because most VW camper vans sleep four people (snuggly), there are more people to split the cost–and make memories in these unique and popular vans.

The difference between a camper van and a motor home

Both camper vans and motor homes are classified as RV’s (recreational vehicles—bet you didn't realize that's what RV stood for). This term refers to a motorized vehicle that is used for camping, and other general exploration.

Camper vans are generally smaller than motor homes. This could mean that you need to crouch down when moving around inside. However, some campers have been modified with roofs that pop up to provide more height and extra headroom while you are parked.

One of the significant differences between a camper van and a motor home is the absence of shower and toilet facilities in a Volkswagen camper van.

Because they are smaller, camper vans may feel a bit cramped, especially if you are a group of adults traveling together. But they can often go where RV's can't. Camper vans can sleep between two and four people on one or two double beds, while motor homes can accommodate a combination of single and double beds for between two and six persons, or more. Keep in mind that even the best VW camper vans will have less space than the smallest motorhomes. That means your sleeping space will double as a kitchen and lounge area. Still, some have roof racks or pop tops where you can store some of your gear or sleep at night.

Motor homes usually have a long wheelbase. While this gives you more room, it also means you are likely to pay higher toll fees and ferry charges, not to mention find a worse turning radius and off-road terrain more difficult to traverse.

Can you rent a VW bus?

Yes, c'mon. Scroll back above! But fr, you don’t need to buy this iconic camper van to go on an adventure in one. Instead, you can rent a VW bus and take to the road. Since Volkswagen vans are no longer produced, there is a limited amount available for rent. Still, numerous companies across the U.S. rent out VW camper vans for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers to take on the road.

Many VW campervans (especially those produced before 1973) have manual transmissions (aka stick shift), and rental companies may require the driver to have experience driving this type of vehicle.

These Volkswagen vans are considered to be vintage vehicles that require considerable amounts of maintenance (not to mention the initial restoration). For this reason, many rental companies have strict limits on the number of miles that you can drive each day. In some cases, the rental company may also set a limit on continuous drive time.

Volkswagen campervan rental companies will likely require you to have full cover on your current car insurance. They may also request a security deposit and place a hold on your credit card to cover any damages that may occur to this iconic camper van.

How much does it cost to rent a Volkswagen camper?

Renting a VW camper could cost anywhere between $130 and $350 per night. Many van rental companies have a minimum rental period – usually 3 nights. Some companies offer discounted rates for longer rentals. You may also find that rates change according to season, similar to hotel rates.

Some camper van rental companies may charge an additional relocation fee if you drop the van off at a different depot from where you collected it. Planning your route to collect and drop off your rented Volkswagen camper van at the same depot can save you from paying a relocation fee.

Similarly, there may be extra fees involved if you collect or return your rented van on a Sunday. You may also need to pay a cleaning fee, so check the fine print carefully before booking your VW campervan.

You may need to pay for insurance or risk a high excess in the event of an accident. This may be covered under your current insurance, so be sure to check before you head out.

Remember that you will need to pay local and state taxes on your Volkswagen campervan hire. This will be calculated upon checkout (or where you enter your payment details if you are renting a van online).

Looking to learn more about life on the road? Check out this honest account of what living in a vintage VW is really like . And read our newest roadlife feature: The New American Dream Is a Rent-Free Life on the Road

Published 09-11-2020

Updated 12-01-2021

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Bluetooth, power windows, a rearview camera, plus an all-new drivetrain are just some of the new features in these 50-year-old classics

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WAVECAMPER - VANLIFE ON YOUR TERMS

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OUR CAMPERVAN MODELS AT GLANCE

RENAULT TRAFIC SHORT

VW T6.1 SHORT

VW T6.1 4x4 OFFROAD

RENAULT TRAFIC LONG

VW T6.1 LONG

VW T6.1 SPORT

Der Renault Trafic Long rundet mit gut fünf Metern Länge das Wavecamper-Angebot ab. Auch dieser Camping Van überzeugt durch flexible Nutzung dank des innovativen Schienensystems – ob als Camper oder Transporter.

IT ALL STARTS WITH THE FIRST CONVERSATION.

Above average functionality.

The ideal partner for pursuing sports passions. Whether it’s surfing or a bike tour, there’s enough room for your board or bike thanks to the spacious cargo area. Heading out for a tournament or trip on the weekend? An overnight stay is provided.

FOR HOLIDAYS

The Wavecamper is a full-fledged campervan with four sleeping places, kitchen, cabinets, parking heating and additional equipment on request. It is designed to give you a sense of boundless freedom. With such an equipped camper, you can go on a safe holidays whenever and wherever you want.

TRANSPORTING PEOPLE AND OBJECTS

Thanks to an innovative rail system, the Wavecamper can be transformed into a roomy van in just a few minutes. A family trip or a weekend getaway with friends? Optional seats give you complete freedom of interior configuration.

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Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

We will be present at the following trade fairs during the 2023/2024 trade fair season. We look forward to welcoming you.

• 21.09 – 24.09 Caravan & Co Rendsburg (Deutschland)
• 28.09 – 24.09 Caravan Live Freiburg (Germany)
• 26.10 – 29.10 Caravans Salon Poznan (Poland)
• 26.10 – 30.10 Suisse Caravan Salon Bern (Switzerland)
• 28.10 – 31.10 Reisen & Caravan Erfurt (Germany)
• 03.11 – 05.11 Caravan Bremen (Germany)
• 22.11 – 26.11 TC Touristik & Caravaning Leipzig (Germany)
• 30.11 – 03.12 Auto Camping Caravan Berlin (Germany)
• 13.01 – 21.01 CMT Stuttgart (Germany)
• 08.02 – 12.02 Caravan Hamburg (Germany)
• 14.02 – 18.02 f.re.e München (Germany)

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VW Camper Van | Grand California Review (VIDEO TOUR)

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on Published: October 3, 2019  - Last updated: December 31, 2020

VW Camper Van |Volkswagen Grand California Review

Volkswagen is making waves with their 2020 VW camper van. Since van life has rocketed into the mainstream culture, the vintage VW bus solidified itself as an iconic symbol of nomadic freedom.

This year we’re excited to see Volkswagen finally breathe new life into the classic camper van with their 2020 Grand California. Yes, it’s true, VW has been producing the California model since 1988. However, The Grand California is a huge departure when it comes to functionality & tech features.

In this article we’ll dive deep into the specs, features and price!

How Much Does The Volkswagen Grand California Cost?

The 2020 Grand California starts around $75,000 USD. With all the additional options and add-ons you’ll be able to quickly rack up a price tag that exceeds $100,000.

This price is on par with many of the RVs on our list, “ 5 Best Small RVs in 2020 .”

What Features Does The 2020 VW Camper Van Have?

This VW camper van is ready for serious travel. Best of all, you can fit an entire family into the Grand California. From the bathroom to the engine, this van blows its previous model out of the water.

#1 Bathroom

The Grand California has a private, separate bath! This is huge when it comes to van life. In fact, this feels more like “Class B life.”  Volkswagen is very proud of this new design – on the VW website they boast:

A defining feature of the all-new Grand California is the separate wet room. The 840x800mm compartment includes a toilet, shower and space-saving sink. There’s also integrated shelving and storage for toiletries and towels. The ventilating skylight clears steam quickly and motion-sensing lights as standard add a touch of style.

Stylistically, this bathroom has the feel of an Airstream or Leisure Travel Van. It’s light, modern and has beautiful lines.

VW Camper Van | 2020 Grand California | IMAGE FROM Volkswagen

#2 Outdoor Shower

If you’d rather spread out and shower in nature, Volkswagen lets you do it in style. The temperature controlled outdoor shower lets you cool off on a hot day, or take a hot outdoors shower even if its snowing!

These outdoor showers are great for cleaning up the pup after a long hike…speaking from experience!

#3 Touch Control Technology

Touch control is the way of the future. Many of the most luxurious Class B RVs began introducing this feature in their 2020 models. We’re glad to see Volkswagen joining the trend with their VW camper van.

The VW’s touch controls lets you program lighting and temperature settings. It also gives you battery and water level information.

#4 Smart Driving Technology

Volkswagen equips the Grand California with the highest-tech driving features that it has to offer. According to the VW Commercial Vehicle website, these are the biggest selling points:

The Grand California carries over the advanced safety and assistance features of the award-winning Crafter, with the following as standard:

• Front Assist to monitor your surroundings with City Emergency Braking
• Front and rear parking sensors to help you into tight spots
• Crosswind Assist to keep you stable in high winds
• Driver Alert to encourage breaks on long trips

#5 Sleeping in the VW Grand California

Getting a good nights sleep is essential for van-life travel. There are many sacrifices nomads make: sacrificing space is easy, but sacrificing good rest is not an option.

The rear bed in the 600 Grand California model folds down into a luxurious queen size bed. The Grand California 680 folds down into a king size bed!

The cushions sit on a dished springing system which is unlike anything we’ve seen in American made camper vans.

Both models has easy-to-access USB plugs near the bed for easy night-time charging.

If you’re traveling with kids, the lofted bed above the driving cab is the perfect fit. This gives you privacy and separation at the end of the day.

Can You Buy the VW Grand California in the US?

The quick answer is, no. Despite being named the Grand California, it isn’t available inside the USA.

James Brodie from Auto Express explains it like this:

Volkswagen doesn’t sell any vans at all in the United States right now, be it of the commercial or camper variety. However, the locals know the score. Straight off the plane at Los Angeles International and our brand new, temporarily imported German-spec California Ocean van is causing a stir, and within minutes a potential sale for Volkswagen has slipped by.

5 Camper Van Options in the USA

Yeah, it’s a huge bummer that these camper vans aren’t for sale in the USA. Fear not – these 5 camper van options are great for your North America excursions.

• Leisure Travel Van’s Unity : This is a high tech beast! We love the murphy bed layout with Dometic’s touch panel technology.
• Sportsmobile Class Bs: These are iconic camper vans in the USA. Ideal for getting off the grid for back road adventures.
• Mod Vans: These modular camper vans come just like you want it. They essentially give you a menu and you design your camper to order!
• Storyteller Overlander: You get all the luxurious comforts paired with extreme off road capability!

The Best FREE Camping in the USA

We love camping across this amazing country. And, we really love it when its free. Here’s our list of the 20 Best Free Campsites in the USA .

If you haven’t tried free camping before, also known as boondocking, take a look at our beginners guide to boondocking filled with everything you need to know to get started.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers that love to score the best site! Simply enter your email below.

Hey we were at Enchanted Trails (Met you there 2 years ago when we were newbies)for a week,while waiting to move over to Balloon Fest. We r first time navigators this year. Think of u often n how the Argosy may not be able or u may not want to take it down some of those bad ass paths you traveled before😂.our travels have been good winters in Florida as work campers at an airport for about 4 or 5 months (to long) 3 months stationary is enough. Also worked last year at Florida State Parks.past summer Dead Horse Ranch Park. Except for extreme heat it is perfect . Hiking fishing town of cottonwood is wonderful about a mile great biking into town. April’s French bakery great crescents lots of wine flights 😂 an beer. Best pizza Bocce n Bings vintage gas station serves great burgers under $6.Sedona 17 miles. Did I mention Walmart about 2 miles. From tent sites u can see the town of Jerome’s lights on the hill.Prayes for safe travels with Nora Jane n family. beach_to_beaches. Enjoy California. Can’t wait to hear where u stayed

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The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Is Already Being Turned Into a Camper Van

Peace vans sells three packages for the eagerly anticipated ev..

Senior Staff Writer

Bryan Hood's Most Recent Stories

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The new Volkswagen ID. Buzz has yet to go on sale in the U.S. but people are already converting it into camper vans.

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Volkswagen has given Peace Vans plenty of room to work with since the ID. Buzz has a 126.7-inch wheelbase and comes with three rows of seats standard. The first two kits, the Buzz.Box (pictures up top) and Buzz.Box.Sleeper requires the removal of the third row. The former combines a kitchenette with plenty of extra storage. The latter features all this plus a sleeping platform that, when the second row of seats is folded down, has room for a queen-size mattress. The base Buzz.Box is best for day trips, while the Sleeper supports a full weekend on the road.

Ready to take the ID. Buzz on the road? You can reach out to Peace Vans now so that you’re all set once the van makes its way to our shores later this year. You can also buy the EV directly from the company, with the kit of your choice already installed.

Bryan Hood is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. Before joining the magazine, he worked for the New York Post, Artinfo and New York magazine, where he covered everything from celebrity gossip to…

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VW’s New Camper Van Isn’t Coming Here, But We Drove It Anyway

The new VW California Ocean is the worst kind of vehicle: a really cool one we can’t have.

By Peter Corn

6 original photos

Brand: Volkswagen Product: California Ocean T6.1 Release Date: Never, at least for us Americans Price: ~$83,729+ From: volkswagen-vans.co.uk

Volkswagen is one of the few carmakers that’s managed to create icons both within and outside of the automotive world. Since its inception in 1947, the VW Type II van has become the symbol for any wandering tribe of free-spirited individuals not only as a vehicle, but as a home. Its self-reliant nature and simple design have allowed it not only to persist, but to become cemented as a symbol of the counterculture movement of the ’60s as well as part of the camping pantheon. These German vans have become as much a symbol as they are a vehicle, representing seemingly endless possibilities. And that legacy endures to this day.

Recently, your humble scribe spent three days in Canada driving the new Volkswagen camper van, the T6.1 California Ocean, around the southern half of Nova Scotia , covering over 400 miles of pine-lined rustic shores and sprawling interior farmlands. Although VW sent us to this Canadian coastal province to drive a van named after the state son closely identified with boxy Vee-Dubs, neither Canadians nor Californians can have one; it’s not sold in North America. Volkswagen, it seems, just wanted us to know what we were missing.

What We Like

The updated looks of the 2020 California Ocean — a new front bumper and an enlarged grill for added airflow to the engine — don’t seem overly striking at first; indeed, it somehow looks both very large and compact all at the same time. But the two-tone white on copper finish that our vans had gave the VWs a retro look that simultaneously managed to be modern and chic.

The appeal was clear: whenever we stopped, someone would pull up alongside the van and ask a flurry of questions — and inevitably walk away sad when they heard they couldn’t have one. It’s no Italian sports car , but the mix of strange beauty and German practicality here is hard to deny.

With the T6.1, the California has been loaded with even more comfort- and efficiency-minded gadgets. The interior feels truly massive — at least by New York City apartment standards. The cabin has an hoest-to-god lounge feel, made possible by its driver and passenger seats’ nifty trick of turning 180-degrees, allowing them to face the rear bench (slash fold-out bed that sleeps two) and camper-van-classic fold-out table.

The list of features certainly doesn’t stop there. Y’all ready? The California also has (deep breath) a two-burner propane stovetop, refrigerator, sink, cold-water shower, on-board water and propane tanks, twin removable tables and chairs, an awning, a diesel-powered heater and more Batmobile-esque gadgets that would take years of ownership to uncover.

In spite of all those features, the interior feels well-thought-out. A few new touches include aluminum handles for the interior cabinetry, wood trim and flooring, new push-to-release mechanisms for some of the kitchen appliances and updated upholstery. Though some of these details may feel small on their own, they add up to a vehicle that feels much more like a home than a van ought to.

Of course, there are still some classic features it shares with some of the camper vans of yore. The California is still fitted with that iconic feature, the pop-top roof bed that sleeps an additional two people. Unlike the Microbuses and Westfalias of the past, these new iterations aren’t a canvas tent with a sliding piece of wood for a bed. The T6.1 has a new bed design with a built-in box spring and queen-size mattress surrounded by a sturdy, almost white-water-raft like material, and it can be deployed in less than two minutes with the push of a button. The van also has a digital pitch gauge allowing the driver to find a level spot setting up camp.

If you decide, like I did, to forgo the new alarm clock feature (in which the cabin lights gently fade on at whatever time you choose), the pop-up tent has zip-open flaps on all four walls to allow the sunrise to wake you. It’s also great for letting in some fresh air if the diesel heater has been cooking a little too hard through the night.

There is a new 12.3-inch display at the helm, which acts as the pilot’s right-hand man. This screen is home to a heap of controls for the technological wonders of the modern motoring (and camping) world. VW calls it the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit; it controls the auxiliary heater and fan, cabin lights, Apple CarPlay, sat-nav and pop-top mechanism. You can track the power you’re using from this same screen; on a full charge, the van’s camping accessories can run for nearly 40 hours. And even if you run the cabin power flat over a weekend, never fear; the motor and radio are on their own dedicated battery.

It’s easy to forget this thing is a vehicle when it’s parked, but it drives pretty well too. The turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four provides plenty of power, while the three-way adaptive suspension provides a smooth highway ride in Comfort Mode and an appropriately responsive one when you hit the button for the rather-unexpected Sport Mode.

Watch Out For

It may be surprisingly good to drive, but that can lead you to feel a bit too trusting in the corners — a potentially hazardous issue with something that is nearly 10 feet tall and clocking in at 6,000 pounds. You really do have to keep its limitations in mind, because it is working hard to hide them from you.

The bigger issue though: it’s really expensive. Although there is a lot of value here, the price tag can be shocking: up to $99,000 for the fully-loaded Ocean package I tested. The differences between a base model and a fully-optioned one aren’t that extreme, essentially coming down to a flip-out kitchen instead of a fixed one and a handful of aesthetic items. The optioned-out model was a blast to spend a weekend in, but if these were available Stateside, I’d grab the simple, no-frills version and save tens of thousands of dollars while still having largely the same experience.

Even though it’s too expensive for me, the new VW T6.1 California Ocean has made me even more jealous of our European friends’ ability to spend the weekend in one of the excellent new iterations of VW’s long line of adventure machines. Here’s hoping this tradition of boxy camper vans continues into Volkswagen’s electric future — and that those future campers make their way Stateside.

VW hosted us and provided this product for review.

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Written by Johnathan R. Smith • April 28, 2022 • 2:19 am • Uncategorized

The Volkswagen Camper Vans

If you are an enthusiast of vehicles or pop culture’s music, movies, television, and video games then you probably know about this very specific brand — Volkswagen!

Volkswagen camper vans were first introduced in 1950. This German firm created some of the most recognizable camper vans in history and since then, it had spread its name in numerous industries and communities.

It’s no wonder, then, that the VW van contains several well-known pop-cultural influences. Its associations with The Grateful Dead, Woodstock, and Scooby-Doo are some of the most renowned. It’s what got countless surfers with their next peaks and musicians to their next shows.

Let us talk about the history of this company and their released models that created a spur in the RV industry.

VW Camper Van History

Camper Van Conception and its Reveal in the 1940s

Volkswagen began as a state-owned automotive manufacturer in 1937, under the command of Adolf Hitler. It was founded in Wolfsburg, Germany, under the name “The People’s Car Company.” Eventually, when the company’s stock was traded, it was denationalized.

Workers at the Volkswagen plant had been using a wagon system to transport materials while building the VW Beetle Type 1. Bernardus Marinus “Ben” Pon Sr., whom owns a Type 1 dealership in the Netherlands, spotted the parts carrier during a visit to the VW factory in 1947. Pon was so inspired that he created sketches of the famed van on a napkin, resulting in the birth of the classic VW. In November 1949, the company launched the first version after collaborating with engineers.

The Volkswagen bus was the very first commercial vehicle with a driver sitting above the front wheels. It’s also recognized as the world’s first van.

The Volkswagen Westfalia Camper Van

One of the first VW van lineups is the Westfalia camper van of the Volkswagen.

Following the example of its Type 1 predecessor, the Beetle, the Volkswagen van was designated as Type 2. The T1, which ran from 1950 to 1967, was the very first Type 2 vehicle (and in Brazil until 1975). The Splitty design was a split-window layout. The Transporter, Microbus, or Kombi, as it was officially known, was a hybrid motor vehicle. This had a retractable center and rear seats, as well as side windows.

Volkswagen started working on camper modifications with Westfalia-Werke in West Germany in 1951. Volkswagen dealers all over the world may sell you adapted Volkswagen camper vans. Alternatively, you might purchase one through their Tourist Delivery Program, where you can choose from a variety of options.

Such campers, known as “Westies,” were among the first of their kind and featured foldout seats, inside birch panels, cabinets, an icebox, a sink with water storage, and electricity connections. You might also include accessories such as a Westfalia pop-up top featuring canvas or screen sides, an awning, or a portable toilet.

Volkswagen campervans were originally introduced in the United States in the mid-1950s, followed by Westfalia campervans in 1956. Such vans were seen as more inexpensive alternatives to station wagons. They also provided a low-cost means for the working class to live, vacation, and travel in one automobile. It became even popular with those looking for alternatives to the mainstream American marketplace, particularly those on the periphery.

Just after the first year on the market in the United States, Volkswagen sold 6,666 Transporters in 1956. Volkswagen manufactured about 13 million VW vans in total, marking it the “longest-produced vehicle in automotive history.”

T2 Camper Van

Rather than employing hinged doors, the 1963 T1 model featured the first sliding door for a passenger/cargo space. In effect, this would be the precursor to the modern-day minivan. Volkswagen built the T2, popularly called the Bay, Bay-Window Microbus, or even Breadloaf, from 1968 to 1979. This second-generation VW Transport series was produced in Brazil until 2013.

The T2 featured a larger body, more power, and faster speeds. It rose sharply to 80 mph instead of the preceding Volkswagen camper vans’ barely reaching 60 mph. The elimination of the split front windshield was among the most visible alterations. The van, on the other hand, had a complete bay window. It also includes safety features such as front disc brakes and updated electrical and battery components.

T3 Camper Van and Westfalia Upgrades

Next on the Volkswagen vans innovation is the T3 vans.

The T3 was produced by Volkswagen from 1979 to 1991. In the United States, this third-generation vehicle was known as the Vanagon because it was spacious like a van but moved like a station wagon. This was the same length, height, and width as the T2, although it was broader and heavier. The body was more square, and the taillights were noticeably different. It included a refrigerator, a sink, and a stove, as well as a pop-up or fixed cover. It also boasted power steering, air conditioning, power locks, and electronic and heated mirrors, among other features.

The Campmobile and the Weekender have been the two choices for equipping the T3 Westfalia. A three-way fridge, two-burner stove, stainless steel sink with onboard water supply, fold-down rear bench that transformed to a bed, and pop-top with such a fold-out bed were all included in the Campmobile. The Weekender didn’t have a refrigerator, stove, or sink, but it did have a cooler and a self-contained sink, as well as two rear-facing seats just behind the seats.

T4 Camper Van

Later on, T4 was added to the collection of VW Camper Van collections.

Volkswagen revealed the T4 series in the RV market, widely known as the EuroVan, from 1990 until 2003. The EuroVan debuted in the United States in 1993 and is a front vehicle, unlike the preceding lines, which had a motor in the back. It had front-wheel drive and energy, water-cooled engine.

The EuroVan could be ordered with a “Weekender package” choice, which included a Westfalia-installed pop-top. You may even acquire a EuroVan with a full camper conversion in the United States. Beginning in 1995, Winnebago, not Westfalia, did these full modifications.

T5 and T6 Camper Van

After Daimler Chrysler purchased Westfalia in 2001, Volkswagen started transforming campers at homes. Volkswagen revealed their own version of California in 2003, but it was never offered in the United States.

The fifth-generation van was yet another vehicle that was not available in the United States. From 2003 through 2015, Volkswagen produced the T5. It was designed to be more aerodynamic than just its previous generation. A four-piece front grill is also included. The T6’s sixth iteration debuted in 2015, with a six-cylinder diesel engine. It boasts eight times the horsepower of the early version Type 2, and the tailgate and front have been redesigned. The T6 is indeed not available in the United States, regrettably.

Electric VW Camper Van

During the last few years, Volkswagen has already been busy working extending and strengthening the California lineup. It quickly followed the new updated T6.1 California with all Caddy California mini-camper from last time, dropping the Caddy Beach and uniting its recreational vehicle collection under the “California” moniker. The corporation now confirmed that an electric California will add to the collection.

Volkswagen unveiled the I.D. idea for an all-electric van in 2017.  The Volkswagen I.D. Buzz Microbus will be available in the United States in 2023. This all-electric drivetrain, influenced by their classic Type 2 Microbus, could go 300 miles on a single charge and recharges to 80% in just 30 minutes. VW claims to be using a Modular Electric Propulsion kit, which is “a collection of components and chassis pieces engineered to optimize the possibilities of electric drive and future technology.”

In the United States, Volkswagen camper vans haven’t really been offered in years, but the ID might bring them back. The RV business in California has already set a new high. According to the RV Industry Association, RV makers produced 510,608 units in October, breaking the previous high of 504,599 set in 2017. According to projections, the total number of units sold in 2021 will top 600,000.

In announcing plans for the ID, Volkswagen cited the success of California-model sales. A VW e-camper should bring new life into VW’s camper selection, and perhaps the industry overall, whether or not such a vigor persists into the middle and later years of the decade. The vintage VW Westy pop-up van continues the perfect representative for past, present, and future open-road #vanlife freedom, as well as the ID. California will blend its iconic identity with an all-electric vehicle platform that is both clean and efficient.

For more than 70 years, the Volkswagen Microbus has become an iconic part of American society. Volkswagen had established the standard for vans and camper vans, and now it’s setting a standard for electric-camper vans. With its all-new electric and self-driving I.D. Volkswagen camper vans, the new generation is about to bring in a new amount of independence in which the original T2 Volkswagen camper vans stood for independence. It’s enough to make people more interested in the new Volkswagen hype!

VW Commercial Vehicles

Volkswagen California 6.1

The California 6.1 is the ultimate vacation and recreational camper van to help you feel right at home everywhere, whether at home or away. With this lineup, you can appreciate the powerful engines, luxurious interiors, cutting-edge entertainment and driver assistance systems, and cutting-edge mobile web services.

California Ocean

Starts at £70,133.00  1

• LED headlamps with lens
• Double glazing in rear seat area (Privacy/Venus); heat-insulating glass (green) in the front area
• Parking sensors – front and rear with park assist

California Coast

Starts at £60,959.00  1

• Awning (housing and rail in black)
• Manual Pop-up roof
• Parking sensors – front and rear
• Auxiliary heater with programmable functionality and radio remote control

California Beach Tour

Starts at £58,502.00  1

• Leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel (3-spoke)

California Beach Camper

Starts at £58,211.00  1

• 2-seater bench (movable) with reclining seat mechanism, multi-flex board
• Adaptive cruise control (with “follow-to-stop”) and speed limiter

More Features from the California 6.1

Roof elevations.

The California 6.1 provides ample comfort in a compact package. The rising roof of the California 6.1 can be set up within only a few simple steps at your vacation destination or stopover. In the passenger area, the extending roof provides you with more room to roam around. Because the elevating roof is electrically powered, it is simple to set up in the California Ocean. As evening comes, the camper van may be transformed into a comfy four-person bedroom.

Kitchen on Wheels

Wherever you go, at any time, you can always prepare a delectable dinner. A properly equipped kitchen on wheels: the California 6.1 Coast and Ocean comes with a cold box, sink, and stove cooking equipment. The California 6.1 Beach Camper’s mini-kitchen can assist you in preparing simple meals and is readily stowed when traveling. There’s also a camping table and chairs that can be arranged outside or stashed away securely when not in use that would save room.

Volkswagen Caddy

VW announces the new Volkswagen Caddy, which is more inventive and adaptable than it has ever been. It comes with a host of innovative technologies, including sophisticated Driver Assist systems, a completely digital cockpit, and a ground-breaking infotainment system, in addition to the current, elegant look. The redesigned Caddy is as dependable, comfortable, and practical as ever, and it’s ready for whatever you plan out for the future.

Starts at  £25,379.00  3

• Radio “Composition Audio” with 16.51-cm (6.5-inch) colour touch screen
• Auto. Emergency Braking Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring
• Cruise control including speed limiter
• Anti-theft alarm system, interior monitoring, backup horn, and towing protection
• Air conditioning – manual in the cab

Starts at £29,569.00  3

• Radio “Composition Colour” with 20.96-cm (8.25-inch) colour touch screen
• App-Connect
• LED rear combination lights
• Roof rails – Black
• Exterior mirrors, power-folding, power-adjustable, separately heated

Volkswagen Transporter 6.1

Since the very first Transporter came off the assembly line 70 years ago, it’s been the industry standard. The Transporter 6.1 panel van is back with a different edition for people who will get the work completed. It’s a vehicle you’ll fall in love with and be fascinated about quickly, thanks to a revamped front end and interior, complete connectivity, and more capacity than it has ever been. You may also drive with complete confidence thanks to Volkswagen’s latest driver aid technologies and Euro 6 compatible drivetrains, featuring 4MOTION.

Panel van Startline

Starts at £30,126.00  7

• Forward collision warning incl. autonomous emergency braking, without adaptive cruise control
• Digital radio reception

Panel van Highline

Starts at £35,838.00  7

• Electronically controlled air conditioning system
• Body-colored bumpers

ABT e-Transporter   6.1

Whenever it concerns the drivetrain in your automobile, it must be durable and reliable. They’ve maintained the same level of performance you’ve come to appreciate from their vehicles and modified the drivetrain to become more efficient than ever before by merging VW’s capabilities with ABT e-Line.

The ABT e-Transporter 6.1, with a range of 82 miles1, is ideal for a variety of companies, notably local couriers, delivery drivers, and small businesses. Plus, with a load volume of 6.7m3 and a payload of up to 996kg, you’ll be able to meet the requirements of your business day with ease. The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 comes in two configurations: panel van and kombi van.

Safety Features

One of the important things when opting for a technological vehicle that offers excellent features is its safety features. What can a Transporter Van provide for the users’ safety? This is one of the questions you may or may not have to ask. Fortunately, this VW automobile does provide assurance and peace of mind for the buyers because it features an amazing kit. The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is equipped with the most up-to-date version of our cutting-edge Driver Assistance systems, making it safe and simple to maneuver. Here are the features included in these vehicles that guarantee passengers’ safety.

Front Assist as well as City Emergency Braking

Volkswagen was also the first to offer Front Assist and City Emergency Braking as original equipment on all of its vans. When a vehicle ahead of you, as well as pedestrians and cyclists, gets too near, the improved Front Assist recognizes it and prepares the ABT e-Transporter 6.1’s brakes if necessary. If the danger persists, the program will partially use the brakes to assist you.

Steering Recommendation for Driver

A new function for the Transporter 6.1 series is Driver Steering Recommendation. The technology is intended to facilitate you in maintaining vehicle stability while driving, and it gently intervenes if it detects oversteer at curves.

Crosswind Assist

Another commendable feature is the Crosswind Assist. When Crosswind Assist senses a severe crosswind, it engages the brakes as part of the ABT e-Transporter 6.1’s Electronic Stabilization Programme (ESP). It comes standard on all Transporter 6.1 models and activates instantaneously once you exceed 50 mph.

ABT e-Transporter 6.1 

• Steel 16-inch wheels
• City Emergency Braking System with Front Assist
• Exterior door mirrors that are electronically adjustable and heated
• System of climatic air conditioning
• Parking sensors in the back
• Color DAB+ radio system with 6.5-inch touch-screen composition

ABT e-Transporter 6.1 Advance 

• Alloy wheels of 17 inches
• Exterior door mirror housings, door handles, and bumpers in body color
• Windshield heater
• Daytime running light with separate LED headlights
• Parking sensors in the front and back
• Exterior door mirrors that can be folded electrically

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does a vw campervan cost.

The cost of a VW camper van will vary depending on the model you want to choose. However, Some models start their price at £25,379.00 and it can go up depending on the lineup or the version. You can check the Volkswagen website for a more in-depth discussion on the prices of the vehicles they sell.

Can you buy a VW camper van in the US?

Contrary to the popular title, California has never been marketed in the United States; the Vanagon was the American model. In the United States, Volkswagen somehow doesn’t sell vans, commercial vehicles, or trailers. The residents, on the other hand, are aware of the situation.

Do VW camper vans have a toilet?

The majority of motorhomes and campers especially those in smaller sizes lack bathroom facilities. These occupy up a lot of room in the car, the toilets stink, and the showers use a lot of water and drain. While not optimal, cold showers are available.

Conclusion: Is it worth buying a VW camper?

If you have always been wanting a campervan from Volkswagen of your own, then there is no harm in investing and getting one for you and your family. The VW campers offer great comfort and amazing features, especially for safe traveling and camping. You can never go wrong with the lineups they offer. So far, Volkswagen had only done everything to improve their vehicles’ technology and that’s what makes it very convincing to buy even more! Other than it is very trendy and eye-catching to use and travel around with, you are ensured not just with fun or adventure but it offers you peace of mind and capability for your well-being too!

About the Author / Johnathan R. Smith

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You are here: Home // If You Like Volkswagen Buses, You’re Going To Love These Camper Trailers

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If You Like Volkswagen Buses, You’re Going To Love These Camper Trailers

Published on July 16th, 2016 by Mark Morris

If I were to dream up a camper trailer, I think it might be Dub-Box, but it’s already been done. After all, I love the blend of vintage style with modern technology and convenience, and what says that better than a camper trailer crafted from a vintage VW van? That’s right, I told you it was awesome.

A cool prop van for the Beatles “Love” show in Vegas, built by Dub Box!

The vans are crafted by Dub-Box USA and each van, or trailer, or whatever it is, is custom built to order. This is something that most manufacturers limit very harshly, but not so with Dub-Box.

Here’s their flagship camper, with its pop-up open and awning extended.

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If you’re a Volkswagen fan, you may be cringing right about now, imagining all of the beautiful vintage steel being taken off the market forever. But don’t worry because these creations are 100% fiberglass! No VW campervans have been hurt in the process.

So, what all can you customize on these babies? Pretty much everything, including the kitchen-counter. Customization includes colors and patterns for:

• flooring and

The rear view of the Dub-Box camper trailer.

In addition to their incredibly cool campers, Dub-Box will also customize one of their trailer models to outfit your mobile business . Need a food truck ? Not only can they do that, but send over your county regulations and they will make sure your trailer comes properly equipped to pass inspection.

This mercantile trailer houses a mini grocer for farmer’s markets.

That’s not all, they’re also building their own furniture!

Even if you’re not good, you’ll look good playing on this VW billiard table.

I’ll talk more about the campers in a minute, but I had to share this with you too, Dub-Box is developing their own line of VW bus inspired fiberglass furniture. They feature two pieces on their site right now, a super hip entertainment center, formed to mimic the rear end of a VW bus, and a pool table, that looks as if the van were chopped down and fitted with felt.

Dub-Box camper models

This camper is their flagship model. Starting at just over $20,000, the camper is 12 x 5 feet and has a 6’6” interior height, with the pop-up top popped. Built to resemble a VW bus minus the cab, this one has a cool pop-top with canvas sides, ala the Vanagon and dub bus campers of yesteryear .

A view of the camper’s sink and stove combo.

While the pop-top provides stand up room inside, the features list ensures your comfort. The camper comes equipped with a Hob sink/stove combo, refrigerator, hot and cold shower, clear and gray water tanks, and a stowable dining table for extra room. Sleeping quarters for two are found in the convertible L shaped sofa.

The Dinky Dub in a cutaway view.

The Dinky is a smaller version of the camper, without the pop-up. Perfect for the nomad on the go, or the quick weekend getaway. At about half the price of the bigger version (a little over $10,000), this model stands just over 10 feet long and serves more as a bedroom on wheels than a full-service camper.

Cooking, refrigeration, and solar power are optional add-ons, but water tanks are not in the design plans for this one. It does, however, feature a staggeringly light 100-pound tongue weight, meaning you could almost tow it behind your 10 speed, like this guy .

Here’s the Dinky, ready for towing, featuring a vintage style roof rack.

Dub-box offers full customization on commercial versions, like this food truck concept.

For food trucks and event trailers , Dub-Box offers a full range of features including a three-part sink for commercial dishwashing purposes, commercial grade flooring, and a Bluetooth sound system for entertaining, as well as the standard water tanks.

The pop-up roof is also integrated into the custom business trailers for full overhead height, and the event trailers can be styled with a larger pass-through for easy sales and conversing with your fans.

A mobile boutique created by Dub-Box USA.

All in all, these are fun and unique campers, built by a company that puts a lot of detail into every single build.

Here’s the full list of models with prices . Unless you have mad skills in welding and bodywork, it’s unlikely you could match the styling at these prices, even starting from an actual Dub bus.

See also:  Portland Gear Westfalia With Scenic City Wrap

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