Volkswagen celebrates 35 years of vanlife with the California Concept
The fifth generation of the German van will be largely based on the Multivan
The Volkswagen California celebrates its 35th birthday this year. The German brand is taking advantage of this symbolic anniversary to unveil sketches announcing the next generation of the famous van. The California Concept prefigures an all-new model that should be based entirely on the latest Multivan. Compared with the current vehicle, the future model will make a major technological leap forward.
An electrified California
Under the bonnet, the new California could for the first time use a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The combination of a 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor will produce a combined 218 PS and 350 Nm of torque. However, because of the extra weight of the equipment, the electric range is likely to be less than the Multivan’s 50 km. A 150 PS diesel version will therefore remain in the catalogue to satisfy long-distance drivers.
On board, the sketches show a large removable touchscreen panel that will control numerous comfort functions such as lighting and air conditioning. Although Volkswagen has not yet given any information on this subject, it is certain that the next California will become a connected model with equipment that can be programmed remotely via smartphone.
First public appearance at the Düsseldorf Motor Show
What we can confirm, however, is that the German will once again have a retractable canvas roof and an external blind. The dashboard will be identical to that of the Multivan, although the infotainment system will benefit from additional functions relating to on-board accessories. The Volkswagen California Concept will be on show at the Düsseldorf Motor Show from August 25 to September 3.
