Meet the All-Electric VW ID. California Cruise Camper Van
Image Caption: Photo Credit: Volkswagen
The Caravan Salon RV and camping show is taking place right now in Düsseldorf, Germany, where a number of new motorhomes and overlanding rigs are being introduced. Among them is a long-awaited all-electric camper van from Volkswagen, who used the event to debut the ID. California Cruise, which is built on the automaker’s ID. Buzz platform, making it ideal for daily driving as well as weekend escapes. But this being VW, it remains to be seen whether or not it will actually make it stateside.
Photo Credit: Volkswagen
From the outside, the ID. California Cruise looks a lot like any other version of the ID. Buzz you’ll see on the road. That is to say that it neatly blends a modern design with retro-nostalgic vibes, which has always given the electric van much of its appeal. The basic Buzz starts at just under $60,000, has a range of about 234 miles, can charge from 10% to 80% in 25 minutes, and has available all-wheel drive. It is also spacious, comfortable, and fun, and although VW has skipped the 2026 model year, it will return to US dealerships with a 2027 model that includes a new software operating system and the NACS charging port.
Unsurprisingly, the more substantial changes for the ID. California Cruise model are found inside the van. There, you’ll find that both rear row seats fold flat to create a sleeping space for two with a 3.5″ thick mattress providing the comfort. The rig comes with blackout shades for all of the windows, offering privacy and the ability to block out the sun. The camper van also comes with two camping chairs and a table, although the current configuration doesn’t include a kitchen. That said, VW recently partnered with Stuff Bubble to introduce an inflatable galley—yes, inflatable—which is likely to be an optional upgrade here, too. There is no onboard bathroom.
Photo Credit: Volkswagen
The EV is available in both a short and long wheelbase version and offers vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality to potentially allow it to serve as a home backup power system. The V2L specs include sustained output of 2000W, with peak output reaching 3600W. This allows it to power a range of devices, including an electric cooler, induction stove, and a coffee pot. Of course, it will also recharge laptops, phones, and e-bikes, too. The van’s battery pack will also power interior LED lighting and climate controls for up to 48 hours of camping.
Volkswagen promises that more details will be revealed as we edge closer to the ID. California Cruise’s release date, with the van expected to start shipping in early 2027. The starting price is expected to be about $70,500, although as noted above, it has yet to be confirmed for the US market, and considering VW offers several camper van models in Europe that have never crossed the pond, we wouldn’t hold our breath on this one making it either. Still, the ID. Buzz is sold stateside, and this is essentially an upgraded version of that vehicle, so there is some hope.
Photo Credit: Volkswagen
If it does come to the US market, this particular model seems like it would appeal to owners who want to occasionally camp and don’t mind skimping on a few amenities. It isn’t likely to compete with true Class B coaches which offer all the features you’d expect from a camper, including a kitchen and bathroom. Still, the price is right on this model and it could definitely appeal to an audience of casual campers looking for occasional overnight stays and weekend getaways. And as always, a little extra competition in the camper van space is never a bad thing.
Stay tuned for further details down the line.
Kraig Becker is a writer in the RV, outdoors, and adventure travel space. Over the course of his career he has contributed to such outlets as Popular Mechanics, Outside Online, Business Insider, TripSavvy, Digital Trends, GearJunkie, The Adventure Blog, and countless others. An avid runner and cyclist, he enjoys camping, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and just about any other outdoor activity. His travels have taken him to seven continents and on many amazing adventures.
