If only they were simpler…

[Salty]

I nearly bought our new California Ocean this week, ten years after buying our first one ten years ago. To be honest I was totally bamboozled by all the technology (probably age related!), and in my view, unnecessary glitz of the whole thing. Then I got thinking, how would I actually design the new California? So with the help of AI I had a go, and just thought I’d share.

My version goes back to what made the original Californias so good in the first place: simplicity, calmness and freedom. Less glitzy hotel room, more modern Westfalia. Scandi meets retro meets modern California.

Power would be electric or hybrid electric. No unnecessary complexity, just thoughtful, durable design focused on comfort, simplicity, and practicality.

Compact proportions, two sliding doors, a simple pop-top, birch ply interior, proper physical storage, foldable table and chairs that actually store neatly inside, and a layout based around outdoor living rather than cramming everything into the van. The rear seats slide forward to create the bed, just like the classic layouts.

I know this is why customers builds exist but I can’t help thinking that VW might do really well if they made things more simple.

Power would be electric or hybrid electric. No unnecessary complexity, just thoughtful, durable design focused on comfort, simplicity, and practicality.

 

[Georgeo]

Don’t let AI design it. Sleeps 2-4 people but has no seat belts on the rear seats. Would you want parking sensors, reversing camera, cruise control. It is these complexities that keep you calm.

Edit:
Sorry the above was not meant to sound harsh. Just my dread of AI coming through.

 

[WelshGas]

I nearly bought our new California Ocean this week, ten years after buying our first one ten years ago. To be honest I was totally bamboozled by all the technology (probably age related!), and in my view, unnecessary glitz of the whole thing. Then I got thinking, how would I actually design the new California? So with the help of AI I had a go, and just thought I’d share.

My version goes back to what made the original Californias so good in the first place: simplicity, calmness and freedom. Less glitzy hotel room, more modern Westfalia. Scandi meets retro meets modern California.

Power would be electric or hybrid electric. No unnecessary complexity, just thoughtful, durable design focused on comfort, simplicity, and practicality.

Compact proportions, two sliding doors, a simple pop-top, birch ply interior, proper physical storage, foldable table and chairs that actually store neatly inside, and a layout based around outdoor living rather than cramming everything into the van. The rear seats slide forward to create the bed, just like the classic layouts.

I know this is why customers builds exist but I can’t help thinking that VW might do really well if they made things more simple.

Power would be electric or hybrid electric. No unnecessary complexity, just thoughtful, durable design focused on comfort, simplicity, and practicality.

View attachment 147776

Outdoor living! In the depths of winter - I think not.

 

[Blanco]

I like your creative flair.

A scandinavian furniture maker could fit one out - they've been doing simple and ergonomic with pale wood for donkey's years. Might cost a bob or two.

VW wouldn't know what to do if it couldn't be made complex and out of aluminium.

 

[Janneman]

Nice try! Outside living needs an awning!

 

[Dixiewixie]

I nearly bought our new California Ocean this week, ten years after buying our first one ten years ago. To be honest I was totally bamboozled by all the technology (probably age related!), and in my view, unnecessary glitz of the whole thing. Then I got thinking, how would I actually design the new California? So with the help of AI I had a go, and just thought I’d share.

My version goes back to what made the original Californias so good in the first place: simplicity, calmness and freedom. Less glitzy hotel room, more modern Westfalia. Scandi meets retro meets modern California.

Power would be electric or hybrid electric. No unnecessary complexity, just thoughtful, durable design focused on comfort, simplicity, and practicality.

Compact proportions, two sliding doors, a simple pop-top, birch ply interior, proper physical storage, foldable table and chairs that actually store neatly inside, and a layout based around outdoor living rather than cramming everything into the van. The rear seats slide forward to create the bed, just like the classic layouts.

I know this is why customers builds exist but I can’t help thinking that VW might do really well if they made things more simple.

Power would be electric or hybrid electric. No unnecessary complexity, just thoughtful, durable design focused on comfort, simplicity, and practicality.

View attachment 147776

Good attempt. Having owned my Ocean for over a month now, I have concluded that VW have just done a poor job of offering a clear explanation of the tech side. It makes sense after a while but you have to find your way. Maybe I need a German mindset!