Volkswagen Boosts Off-Grid Power for Grand California
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Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has unveiled updates to its Grand California motorhome, headlined by a new off-grid package that boosts usable battery capacity by almost 40%.
Henry Hurt Deputy Editor
Henry Hurt Deputy Editor
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Owners can now choose two additional LiFePO4 batteries in place of the standard AGM battery or step up to the full off-grid package, which pairs the batteries with a permanently fitted solar system for the first time. The solar panel is rated at 104W on the Grand California 600 and 174W on the 680.
Volkswagen says the lithium batteries offer around five times the cycle life of AGM technology, along with built-in deep-discharge protection. Usable capacity climbs from 46Ah with the standard 92Ah AGM battery to around 64Ah with the two LiFePO4 batteries fitted, and faster charging currents cut charging times too, with the secondary electrical system supporting up to 200A.
Combined with the solar panels, which continue charging even while driving and are prioritised in ECO mode, Volkswagen says the update makes the motorhome better suited to extended stays away from campsite hook-ups.
The upgrade to LiFePO4 batteries alone costs €833, while the full off-grid package is priced at €1,719.55 on the Grand California 600 and €2,326.45 on the 680. Both are available to order now.
Elsewhere, the range gains standard driver monitoring for fatigue detection, with intersection assist available as an option, alongside new infotainment systems with screens of up to 12 inches. Inside, the "Atami Bamboo" décor introduced previously continues, alongside added storage and a more flexible table.
The Grand California remains available in two forms: the 600, with a transverse bed, and the longer 680, which uses longitudinal beds instead.
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