Caravan Salon 2026: VW Goes Modular and Electric
Volkswagen will present two world premieres at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf (August 28–September 6). The ID California Cruise concept car will be on display, offering a first glimpse of a fully electric camper van scheduled for 2028. Another new feature is a modular concept for the California Beach, developed in collaboration with Stuff Bubble. This also includes the world’s first inflatable camping kitchen.
While traditional camping conversions take up permanent space and add weight, the new modules can be set up in just a few minutes—even by a single person—and taken down just as quickly. When the equipment isn’t needed, it can be stored away in the basement or garage to save space, and the VW bus returns to being a fully functional everyday van.
The inflatable kitchen was developed specifically for the California Beach’s luggage board and, despite its light weight, offers a full range of features, including an integrated, closed-loop water system. Measuring approximately 120 x 44 x 47.5 centimeters, the kitchen weighs less than 10 kilograms. A particular advantage is the module’s modular design: Depending on the usage scenario, the kitchen can be flexibly used either inside or outside the vehicle.
The new bed system is equally flexible. The sleeping surface, measuring approximately 200 x 134 centimeters, is based on a multi-layered, breathable construction and is distinctly more than a traditional air mattress. The bed system can be used as either a double bed (weighing 12 kilograms) or a single bed (6 kilograms). This leaves enough space for living, cooking, or storing luggage even when the bed is set up. As a result, the California Beach offers up to four sleeping spots.
The kitchen and bed can be used independently, separated, and flexibly combined. Depending on your needs, the California Beach can thus be transformed into a full-fledged camper, a mobile family hotel, a business van, a base camp for outdoor enthusiasts, or a spacious everyday vehicle. The low additional weight of the textile structures improves payload capacity, fuel efficiency, and everyday practicality compared to conventional solutions. Another key advantage over traditional modular furniture installations: When not in use, the modules do not require space in the vehicle or storage room for bulky furniture.
“Through this collaboration, we’re seizing the opportunity to rethink camper vans. Together with our innovation partner Stuff Bubble, we’re exploring how modern lightweight construction technologies and modular concepts can be applied to the California Beach. In doing so, we’re deliberately drawing on developments from other fields—such as kiteboarding and paragliding, or inflatable tube structures, which are now standard in modern tent construction. Our strategic approach is to free the classic campervan from heavy materials and rigid fixtures and instead rely on flexible, modular solutions. This creates camping functionality without limiting the base vehicle’s suitability for everyday use. “This appeals in particular to customers who deliberately do not want fixed furnishings in their vehicle but still do not want to compromise on their camping standards during spontaneous trips or at festivals,” explains Stefan Mecha, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. (aum)
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