Hanover, 30 June 2025 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has raised the bar in hybrid vehicle technology with the debut of its revolutionary eHybrid 4MOTION drive system—an innovative plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive architecture purpose-built for the new Multivan and California models. Merging everyday electric usability with formidable off-road capabilities and long-distance comfort, this system redefines what’s possible for camper vans and versatile people movers alike.
At the heart of this breakthrough lies a meticulously engineered triad of power sources: a new 1.5 TSI evo2 petrol engine and two electric motors, one on each axle. The result is a seamless blend of electric mobility, high-efficiency hybrid cruising, and true all-wheel drive traction—a trifecta previously unattainable in the segment.
Everyday Electric Meets Go-Anywhere Confidence
Equipped with a 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery—nearly double the capacity of its predecessor—the eHybrid 4MOTION enables up to 95km of pure electric range (WLTP), placing most daily journeys well within zero-emissions territory. In Germany, for instance, 95% of all trips are shorter than 50km, making the system ideal for real-world use. Speeds of up to 130 km/h can be achieved in EV mode, while hybrid mode pushes that ceiling to 200 km/h.
Unlike traditional plug-in hybrids limited to front-wheel drive, the eHybrid 4MOTION introduces an electric rear axle, significantly enhancing traction. Whether traversing snowy mountain roads or muddy campsite paths, the Multivan and California deliver the kind of confident all-terrain performance that has long been the hallmark of VW’s camper van heritage.
This capability stems from the sophisticated power distribution governed by Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which can dynamically route up to 100% of the drive torque to either axle. In a departure from mechanically dependent AWD systems, this electronically controlled configuration mirrors the electric precision found in the ID. Buzz GTX, allowing for enhanced traction without the need for a traditional propshaft.
Smart Climate Control, Even When Parked
Both the Multivan and California eHybrid 4MOTION models now come standard with electric stationary air conditioning—a major comfort and convenience upgrade. Whether parked, plugged in, or camping off-grid, this system enables quiet, emissions-free heating and cooling of the vehicle interior.
When connected to an external power source, the stationary climate control system operates for up to 30 minutes. Drawing from the high-voltage battery, it provides up to 10 minutes of comfort off-grid, helping maintain a pleasant cabin environment and boosting efficiency before setting off. For long-term camping, California models can be optionally equipped with continuous operation heating via a dedicated control unit in the C-pillar.
Hybrid Performance Without Compromise
The new drive system begins every journey in electric mode, with the front motor (85kW/115PS) handling most duties. When needed, the rear motor (100kW/136PS) is brought online via a dog clutch, allowing full electric AWD up to 130 km/h in Sport or Individual profiles. The 1.5 TSI evo2—a new-generation petrol engine delivering 130kW (177PS)—joins the mix only when required, ensuring fuel is used sparingly.
Paired with advanced energy recuperation and intuitive hybrid mapping, this trio delivers a combined output of 180kW (245PS) and 350Nm of torque. Drivers benefit from seamless transitions between power sources, silent coasting in partial load, and robust acceleration when needed. Remarkably, even with the battery depleted, the system maintains all-wheel capability by regenerating power for the rear motor using the front drivetrain.
A Drive Mode for Every Journey
Tailored to diverse driving scenarios, four profiles—Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual—allow users to fine-tune responsiveness, power delivery, and efficiency. In Eco mode, power and throttle mapping are optimised for maximum range. Sport unlocks the full potential of the hybrid powertrain, keeping AWD active up to 130 km/h for a more dynamic drive. The Individual profile even permits customisation of adaptive chassis control (DCC) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) for fine-tuned handling and driver support.
Technological Leap Forward
The eHybrid 4MOTION is a generational leap over the previous PHEV front-wheel drive setup. Beyond the upgraded powertrain, enhancements include:
- New dual power electronics units, located at each axle, managing energy flow and AC/DC conversion
- Rapid charging capabilities: up to 11kW AC at home and 50kW DC on the go, with 10–80% charge in approx. 26 minutes
- A plasma-coated 1.5 TSI engine with high-efficiency combustion (Miller cycle, VTG turbo, high-pressure injection)
- Advanced thermal management and energy optimisation for year-round performance
This deep integration of hardware and software makes the eHybrid 4MOTION not just a technological marvel, but a practical solution for modern travel.
A Future-Ready VW Bus
Volkswagen’s latest move is more than an incremental upgrade—it’s a fundamental reimagining of the VW Bus for a new generation of adventurers and urban explorers. With its unique blend of electric range, all-weather traction, and smart comfort features, the Multivan eHybrid 4MOTION and California eHybrid 4MOTION are primed to serve as the most versatile, capable, and sustainable VW buses ever built.
The legend continues—only now, it’s charged, connected, and ready for everything.
