Imagine traveling the roads in complete freedom, without emissions, in the absolute comfort of a state-of-the-art van. This is exactly what Volkswagen is offering with its all-new California eHybrid 4Motion, unveiled as a world premiere at the 2024 Düsseldorf Motor Show. A true concentrate of technology, this camper van pushes the limits in terms of versatility, autonomy and on-board intelligence . Decryption of a vehicle built for adventure.
The intelligent plug-in hybrid, the key to a new road trip experience
The great strength of the California eHybrid 4Motion lies in its cutting-edge powertrain combining a 174 hp 1.5 TSI petrol engine with two electric motors, one on each axle. This unique configuration, called 2nd generation eHybrid, delivers a cumulative power of 241 hp while offering hassle-free 4Motion all-wheel drive. The icing on the cake: the 19.7 kWh lithium-ion battery promises up to 91 km of 100% electric rangeperfect for riding in silence in the heart of nature.
Volkswagen has taken ingenuity a step further by using the battery to power the air conditioning and heating when stationary. Connected to the mains, the climate system can operate for 30 minutes, ideal for preheating or cooling the passenger compartment before hitting the road. When wild camping, allow 10 minutes on the battery, enough to wake you up gently. A well-thought-out little extra that makes the difference.
The perfect combination of versatility and all-terrain capabilities
Based on the new Multivan, the California eHybrid 4Motion retains the advantages that made its predecessors successful. Its lifting roof houses a comfortable two-seater bed while the lower convertible bench seat can accommodate two additional adults. The height of 1.99 m, identical to the California 6.1, allows access to covered car parks. The complete kitchen pack, cleverly located at the rear thanks to the extended wheelbase, even has an easily accessible drawer refrigerator.
But it is above all 4Motion all-wheel drive which changes the situation. Coupled with ESP, it distributes torque optimally between the front and rear axles to overcome precarious grip conditions. Snow, mud, gravel… the California eHybrid 4Motion will take you further, in complete safety, opening new horizons for your escapades.
An unbeatable price-performance ratio
Despite its premium technical sheet, the California eHybrid 4Motion displays a low price. Count on €77,772 for the 4-seater Beach Tour “light camper” version and €82,907 for the fully equipped model. That’s barely more than their 2-wheel drive diesel equivalents: around €6,000 and €5,000 more respectively. An additional cost that quickly pays for itself given the multiple advantages provided by the intelligent plug-in hybrid and all-wheel drive.
With the California eHybrid 4Motion, Volkswagen reinvents the converted van by sublimating its original spirit. Further, more freely, more comfortably and cleaner, without compromise. The recipe for a successful road trip!
The California eHybrid 4Motion embodies our vision of the leisure van of the future: zero emissions every day, adventurer at heart, intelligent and affordable.
Dr. Heinz-Jürgen Löw, Director Marketing & Sales Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles
In summary, the California eHybrid 4Motion combines:
- A plug-in hybrid powertrain developing 241 hp
- A 100% electric range of up to 91 km, the benchmark in the segment
- 4Motion all-wheel drive to get off the beaten track with complete peace of mind
- A modular cabin for up to 4 beds with integrated kitchen
- An attractive price considering the services offered
A unique cocktail which is likely to make the California eHybrid 4Motion the new benchmark for converted vans. There is no doubt that #vanlife enthusiasts will be seduced by this exceptional model which pushes the boundaries of eco-responsible itinerant travel. Well done Volkswagen!
