Volkswagen Previews Inflatable Camper Tech and Electric ID. California
Volkswagen is preparing a double-barreled display for the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon. Highlighted by ultra-lightweight inflatable accessories alongside a preview of its future electric camper lineup, the German brand aims to push modularity and zero-emission travel further into the mainstream.
Partnering with outdoor accessory creator Stuff Bubble, Volkswagen engineered a bespoke set of removable, inflatable interior modules tailored to the T7-based California Beach van. Designed to clip into the factory luggage shelf mounting rails in minutes, the setup completely avoids the heavy, permanent cabinetry that usually limits a camper van’s daily driving usability.
The primary component is a split-design inflatable kitchen weighing under 22 pounds (10 kg). Featuring an integrated, closed-loop water system, the two-piece unit can be operated inside the cabin or carried out to an exterior campsite.
Accompanying the kitchen is an inflatable mattress system measuring roughly 79 by 53 inches (200 x 134 cm). Built using a multi-layer breathable material, the bed can be configured as either a 13.2-pound (6 kg) single layout or a 26.5-pound (12 kg) double setup. When paired with the van's pop-up roof sleeper, the configuration provides sleeping room for up to four people. Once a trip concludes, the components can be deflated, unclipped, and stored away, returning the California Beach to a multi-seat daily driver.
Electrifying Van Life: ID. California Cruise
Alongside the inflatable hardware, Volkswagen will host the world premiere of the ID. California Cruise concept. Built on the battery-electric ID. Buzz architecture, the concept previews an upcoming family of production-bound electric camper vans scheduled to roll out through 2028.
Detailed specifications regarding battery capacity, electric driving range, and layout configurations will be fully revealed when the Caravan Salon opens its doors in Düsseldorf.
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