The history of VW camper vans dates back to the 1950s when the idea of designing a camper van was introduced. Over time, it became known as the perfect vehicle to convert into a camper van. Over the past 6 generations, it has undergone many updates. Thus, today we have more efficient engines, streamlined bodies, and more comfortable interiors of Volkswagen camper vans.
The original VW vans still have a huge fan following. The camper van gave the culture of living in a van that people still enjoy. If you are planning to invest in VW camper vans here, we have everything you need to know.
VW camper vans
The Type 2 Volkswagen camper (also famous as Transporter) was the first van design in 1950. It is also famous in other versions like the Kombi, VW bus, or Microbus. Moreover, different variations depending on available body type.
The design of Type 2 was an alternative for the VW beetle which was not ideal for commercial use due to its small size. Besides that, with time, the innovations in VW camper vans became one of the reasons it is among the most famous vans available.
History of Volkswagen campers; Van life and camper buses
Before we can proceed with the latest types of VW camper van available. It is essential to share a little backstory about the innovation of these vans.
The beginning in 1947
The instruction of the Type 2 camper bus was humble. The main function of this van was to carry around car parts in the VW factory. The Dutch importer Ben Pon gave the idea of a van style vehicle. Within two years at Geneva Motors the VW van was launched.
In the beginning, it was only a 170 cubic ft bus with a four-wheeler chassis. Within the next few years, Volkswagen presented 100 unique body combinations. Besides that, the variety of VW vans was available for pick-ups, camper vans, fire engines, ambulance, and more.
Splitty in 1949
Splitty was a VW van model with split windows. It is among the most popular models available. The first version of this model was introduced as a Panel or Kombi van in 1949. After a year a microbus was also introduced.
Westfalia in 1967
The Westfalia or bay took over the industry in 1967. The improvements you will find in this model are.
- Better electrics.
- 2L model powerful engine.
- 80 mph speed.
- Comfortable interior for a comfortable ride.
- Bigger body.
- It can carry huge loads.
Bay Camper Bus in 1975
In 1975 the VW came in the market with the latest Bay camper bus. However, most of the features of this model were similar to Bay. The only difference was its bay window design. It is one of the VW camper vans that became instantly popular. People bought it for a mobile home or camper van.
T4 to T25 in 1979
In 1979, T25 was introduced in the market because the production of Bay was stopped. Moreover, unique T4 and T5 were also available in the market. However, these were not as popular as splitty or Westfalia.
VW vans cease production
The production of VW vans unfortunately stopped for a while. However, in 2003 they introduced the latest models of camper buses that are still undergoing some special improvements and innovations today. Here we have a list of modern VW vans that are still available in the market.
T5 or Transporter 5
The T5 was first introduced in 2002 but the production of the van did not start until 2003. Thus, the T5 VW camper van is available around the world except for the USA because of the extra tax of 25% for importation.
A wide range of variety was available in the van which includes.
- Long wheelbase.
- Short wheelbase.
- Rooflines in high, medium, and low.
As well as, many configurations of T5 transporter are available like.
- Minibus.
- Van.
- Double cab.
- Single can.
- Chassis truck.
- Drop-side.
- Kombi.
- Multivan.
- Shuttle.
- Caravelle.
T5.1, T5 GP, and T5 Facelift
The latest version of the T5 Volkswagen camper Transporter is famous as the T5 facelift. It has many cosmetic changes at the front. Besides that, there are some small changes like better traction control and running daylights. However, the most important improvement is the addition of a 180 bhp engine.
Look at the front edge of the bonnet to point out the difference between a T5 GP and T5. Moreover, it comes with a VW badge. Besides that, there are small cutouts in T5 which are not available in t% GP.
T6 Volkswagen
In 2015, the 6th generation of VW camper vans was announced. It has a modern interior that will provide a car-like comfort. Besides that, it comes with a driver-side sliding door and a passenger-side sliding door.
There are many amazing cosmetic changes in the latest T6. Some of them are.
- Grill design.
- Front bumper.
- Unique light clusters.
- The new position of side repeater.
- Modified rear bumper.
- Large rear window.
- Scallop around the number plate.
T6 also has some unique specifications. It comes with an engine that has 15% better fuel consumption which makes it an economical option. Besides that, there is a 7-speed automatic gearbox with dual-clutch. Moreover, it has higher output models available. You will also have a driving alert system that will identify if the driver is tired.
New VW vans becoming available
VW is designing the vans of the future. We all know that this is the age of electrical cars. Thus, VW is working on special electric vans to assure that van life lovers can explore the world with technology. Here are a few electric VW vans that are available for consumers.
E-Crafter
It has an urban multi-drops design. Besides that, the VW camper van has a similar load and payload as any diesel van. With the efficient 107-mile range, it is perfectly smooth and powerful.
ID Buzz
It is the next-generation van that comes with multi-purpose technology. Besides that, buzz as the modular electric drive kit which provides a lot of space and comfort to its riders. Moreover, there are various battery options which you can select according to your budget and requirements.
ID Buzz Cargo
One of the best VW camper vans is going to be ID Buzz Cargo. It comes with various amazing features.
- Intelligent storage
- Augmented reality.
- Integrated workstation for the driver.
- ID pilot mode for self-driving.
- Head-up display.
Moreover, it has an iconic design and exceptional space for consumers.
Enjoy a perfect camp life with VW camper vans
Having a camper bus if you are planning to start a van life will be like a dream come true. Buying a VW van is a great choice, as they have been known for producing great quality vehicles which make awesome campers.
