Volkswagen reveals its first electric California campervan

Volkswagen has confirmed its first electric campervan, the ID. California Cruise, bringing the long-running California name into the battery-powered era for the first time.

The vehicle is built on the same platform as the ID. Buzz Pro, the larger, longer-wheelbase version of VW's electric people carrier. That foundation gives the California Cruise a spacious interior suited to overnight stays and longer trips, according to multiple reports, with the design leaning into the retro styling cues that have made the California nameplate popular over the decades.

One of the more practical additions is vehicle-to-load functionality, which allows the van to channel power from its battery out to external devices and appliances. For campers, that means being able to run lighting, cooking equipment and other accessories without needing a hook-up at a site, making genuinely off-grid stays a realistic option.

The starting price has been quoted at around 60,800 euros, which places the ID. California Cruise firmly in premium territory. No official UK sterling pricing has been confirmed at this stage, but at current exchange rates the figure would translate to well above £50,000 before any local taxes or options are factored in. Buyers considering one will want to keep a close eye on the UK specification and pricing when Volkswagen releases those details.