Volkswagen surprises with inflatable kitchen and electric ID. California

German start-up Stuff Bubble is quickly making a name for itself with its inflatable camping modules. At the CMT 2026 in Stuttgart, Campingtrend checked out their inflatable kitchen, among other things, which is the highlight of their range. In our article, we explained why this kitchen is perfect for cars with camper ambitions.

Volkswagen is enthusiastic

We were highly enthusiastic about these air-based camping modules, and we are certainly not alone. Volkswagen is also on board and, together with Stuff Bubble, is developing an inflatable kitchen and a flexible bed system exclusively for the new California Beach.

Why inflatable camping modules in the California Beach?

Two years ago, the Volkswagen Multivan succeeded the Transporter as the base vehicle for the California, which comes in three versions. The California Beach is the entry-level model of this iconic camper van. The Beach is equipped with five seats and a manually operated pop-up roof offering two sleeping berths.

For Volkswagen, this is the ideal model to equip with the inflatable camping modules. Stefan Mecha, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, explains that such flexible, modular solutions offer more camping options for a van that also remains suitable for daily use. Mecha: “It particularly appeals to customers who don’t want a permanent interior, but still want to enjoy the comfort of camping during spontaneous trips, festival weekends, or outdoor adventures.”

Many advantages

As an advantage, Volkswagen highlights the lower weight compared to fixed installations. In addition, the new modules can be set up and dismantled by a single person in just a few minutes. They can also be used outside the van, as shown in the main photo. And if there are no camping trips or other excursions on the horizon? Then the modules can easily be stored at home, without taking up any space in the van.

How do the inflatable kitchen and bed system work?

The modules are specially designed for the luggage compartment of the California Beach:

• Inflatable kitchen: Measures approx. 120 x 44 x 47.5 cm and weighs less than 10 kg. The kitchen module features an integrated sink. Because the system consists of multiple parts, you can use the kitchen just as easily outside under the awning as by a lake.
• Flexible bed system: Offers a sleeping surface of 200 x 134 cm with a breathable multi-layer construction. This makes the system more comfortable than a standard air mattress. The bed can be divided into a double bed of 12 kg – giving the California Beach four berths – or a single bed of 6 kg. In the latter configuration, there is plenty of space left on the side for clothes, sports equipment, or other luggage.

World premiere in Düsseldorf: ID. California Cruise

The California family is welcoming a new member: the ID. California Cruise. The ID. Buzz base vehicle is already popular with camper converters like Ventje and Tonke, and now there is also an official California based on the electric VW. With the ID. California Cruise, Volkswagen is taking the first step towards a new generation of fully electric camper vans, which the brand will introduce step-by-step up to 2028.

All details at the Caravan Salon

The Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf – from 28 August to 6 September – is the ultimate event for the camping industry to share news. Volkswagen will then announce more details about its collaboration with Stuff Bubble. Visitors will also be invited to share their feedback, which the companies will then take into account during the development of the modules for the California Beach. In addition, Volkswagen will share more details about the arrival of the electric ID. California Cruise.