Volkswagen campervans go electric with the new ID. California Cruise

Volkswagen has unveiled its first all-electric campervan based on the ID. Buzz.

The ID. California Cruise was unveiled at the Dusseldorf Caravan Salon 2026 and answers a demand that has been present ever since the ID. Buzz first broke cover.

The California name has been associated with VW’s day vans and campervans since 1988 and the ID. California Cruise is the first Buzz variant to bear the famous mark. However, it won’t be the last, with VW promising it is the first in a family of all-electric California models that will arrive by 2028.

Based on the ID. Buzz Pro, the ID California Cruise is available in standard- and long-wheelbase formats and uses a 282bhp rear-mounted motor paired to either a 79kWh or 82kWh battery.

Externally, it looks like any other Buzz, but inside there’s a clever folding mattress which folds out to 2.03m by 1.2m to cover the entire boot space and rear seat backs. To deliver a proper camper feel a host of additional extras include ventilation grilles for the front side windows, black-out blinds for all windows (and the panoramic sunroof, if fitted) and a bespoke California mode.

This mode uses a new control unit to manage interior lighting and climate settings and provide continuous power to them and the van’s USB ports when parked. Through the new unit, the van’s climate control can heat or cool the van to a desired temperature for up to 48 hours. The California mobile app has also been updated to include an EV-specific trip planning function.

Along with the mattresses and blinds, the ID. California Cruise features two camping chairs and a table which can be stowed under the van’s rear “Buzz Board”. Its onboard vehicle-to-load system can also be pressed into service to support off-grid breaks. With continuous output of up to 2,000 watts and a peak output of 3.6kW, it can power everything from portable hobs and cool boxes to ebike chargers and lighting systems.

Priced from €60,761 in its native Germany, the ID. California Cruise builds on the regular ID. Buzz Pro with the standard addition of the interior style and comfort packages along with the PowerSocket external V2G adapter.

Volkswagen UK confirmed to EV Powered that the California Cruise will not go on sale in Britain. However, it did hint at related product news to be announced in the coming months.