Production of the Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 is coming to an end which will also see production of the Volkswagen California using the current platform finish too. To commemorate the last of this generation of California camper vans, Volkswagen is to produce a special "Last Edition" model for the final 1500 production units of their hugely popular California.

The last 1,500 VW California camper vans will roll off the production line in Hanover-Limmer by the end of the summer and to celebrate their departure VW is adding a little finishing touch.

Each of the last camper vans will receive a sticker on the D-pillar with the designation "Last Edition".

The California 6.1 has been on sale since 2019 and was the latest in a long line of dedicated camper van models from the Volkwagen van line-up. A the time, new features included a touchscreen in the roof console to control all the essential camper settings.

All models of the Volkswagen California, in the Beach, Coast and Ocean trim options are now sold out.

Speculation as to what will replace the California has been rife after Volkswagen entered into a product sharing agreement with Ford for their commercial vehicles.

The next generation of Volkswagen Transporter will be built by Ford and based on the latest Ford Transit Custom. Volkswagen has also developed its own mid-sized platform that would be suitable for a camper model. The Volkswagen Multivan is an obvious choice for the next generation of California as it is available in multiple powertrains including a Multivan PHEV.

An extension to the California range was also expected using the Volkswagen ID Buzz Cargo platform, however, VW Commercial Vehicles CEO Carstan Intra recently confirmed that the ID Buzz California would not be an immediate priority and won't arrive until later this decade. Intra also revealed that VW would continue to build its own large vans with an electrified Volkswagen e-Crafter model arriving by 2028. Previously, Volkswagen has chosen to produce a Grand California version using the Volkswagen Crafter platform.

The world premiere of the next Volkswagen California will take place on May 7, 2024 in Berlin.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has unveiled its new California CONCEPT camper van.

Derived from the long wheelbase version of the 2021 Multivan, the new California camper is a larger iteration compared to its predecessor, the California 6.1. With a pop-up roof providing nearly 2m in headroom, it is a new interpretation of the classic California introduced in 1988.

It’s main feature is new plug-in hybrid technology – a first for the California – which will bridge the gap between traditional ICE models and all-electric versions. The vehicle is equipped with lithium-ion batteries that supply an almost self-sufficient 12V power source.

The California CONCEPT also reimagines the living and kitchen areas with a sliding door on the kitchen side. Where the kitchen previously occupied the left side and the entrance was on the right, the California CONCEPT introduces a new layout similar to the larger Grand California model. The result is improved versatility and adaptability, enhanced by a folding-arm awning on one side and a sun sail on the other.

The three-zone concept divides the vehicle's functionality into distinct exterior and interior scenarios blending camping and everyday driving with its living space.

The California CONCEPT also introduces a new control system with a multifunctional tablet on the C-pillar to control features from the pop-up roof control to water levels and interior lighting functions. It also doubles up as an infotainment screen.

A production version with similar attributes is expected to be made in 2024.