Volkswagen has revealed a new plug-in hybrid, all-wheel-drive system that will feature in its iconic California campervan for the first time.
The new "eHybrid 4MOTION" powertrain combines a petrol engine with two electric motors, allowing the vehicle to operate as a silent electric car for daily trips, a long-distance tourer, and a capable off-roader.
The system will be available in both the new California camper and its sibling, the Multivan people carrier.
It marks a significant development for the popular campervan range, offering a blend of go-anywhere traction with the ability to run on zero-emission electric power, a feature increasingly sought after for access to campsites and low-emission zones.
The technology pairs a new 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor on both the front and rear axles. This creates an "electric all-wheel-drive" system that Volkswagen says offers superior traction and control on difficult surfaces like wet grass fields or snowy tracks.
Energy is stored in a 19.7 kWh battery which can travel up to 95km (59 miles) on electric power, at speeds of up to 80mph.
When the battery is depleted or more power is needed, the petrol engine takes over providing a combined system output of 245hp.
A key upgrade is a significant improvement in charging speeds. Unlike many earlier plug-in hybrids, the new eHybrid can be charged at charging stations at speeds of up to 50kW. The small battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in around 26 minutes.
Another feature designed with campers in mind is the electric stationary air conditioning. This allows the cabin to be pre-heated or cooled while the vehicle is parked or charging, using either mains power or the vehicle's own battery. It can run continuously when plugged in at a campsite, providing heating or cooling without needing to run the engine.
VW says the system has been designed for maximum efficiency. In normal driving, the vehicle will prioritise using electric power. The all-wheel-drive system is intelligent, engaging the rear motor only when needed to save energy, but it can be permanently activated by the driver for challenging conditions.
Even if the main battery is empty, the system can still function in all-wheel drive by using the petrol engine and front motor to act as a generator, sending power to the rear wheels.
Pricing and a UK release date for the new eHybrid 4MOTION models have not yet been announced.
