We explain the different types of VW base vehicles that ultimately can be converted into a campervan
At CamperKing we want our customers of today and tomorrow to be fully equipped with all the information they need to make an informed and confident decision about the campervan they are buying. And that starts with the base vehicle.
Here we explain the key aspects of VW base vehicles and the different types that can be used to create your dream campervan.
What is a base vehicle?
In short, it’s the basic vehicle that will become your campervan. Think of it as the foundations of your van and effectively the starting point too.
If you are buying a ready-built campervan, the base vehicle such as the VW Transporter has already been converted to the finished campervan. If you are having a custom-built campervan made for you, that base vehicle will be converted by craftspeople into the finished product.
When considering what campervan to buy or convert, think carefully about the base vehicle. Think about factors such as size – inside and out – plus whether it has a high top. Then there’s the engine and fuel considerations especially with the growth of clean air and low emission zones in cities.
Also think about the warranty together with how you will use the vehicle, and its drivability – do you want an automatic or manual gear box? Then there’s the wheelbase length (long or short for the Transporter, for example), which is a factor for both interior space and how easy it will be park or fit on your driveway. What about the weight payload – can it accommodate all you need inside when heading off on a tour?
That sounds like a lot to consider but remember CamperKing has experts on hand to help plus years of experience to draw upon.
A guide to different types of VW base vehicles
The VW Transporter: The T7 is VW’s seventh generation Transporter base vehicle that is versatile and offers exceptional handling experience. It’s a collaboration between Volkswagen and Ford, and for the first time the Transporter is built upon the Transit Custom platform.
The T7 takes the popular base model to next level when it comes to design, technology, payload and value when compared to the T6/T6.1. Standard models include short wheel-base and long wheel-base versions.
CamperKing’s latest models – the Freedom and Go! – are based on the T7 Transporter base vehicle.
CamperKing also stocks and customises campervans on the T5, T6 and T6.1 base vehicles, which are earlier versions of the Transporter that are still popular.
The Caravalle (formerly the Multivan): This is a close relative of the Transporter and is a seven-seater vehicle that was designed with families in mind. The VW California campervan is based on the Caravelle.
VW Caddy: According to VW, the Caddy combines car-like driving mechanics and refined cabin design in a compact footprint that’s ideal for daily use. The Caddy is now in its fifth generation and at the rear it has either barn doors or a top-hinged tailgate.
VW Crafter: The Crafter is Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ largest van, offering a generous interior with wide sliding doors that open up to 1.31m, and a high load compartment height of up to almost 2.2m. This provides the space and practicality for fully-equipped campervan and motorhome-style conversions. Converters also benefit from a choice of body lengths and heights, which provides plenty of flexibility for sleeping areas, kitchens, storage and living space. The Crafter also provides the platform for VW’s Grand California motorhome.
VW ID. Buzz: This is an all-electric vehicle that’s available in a variety of wheelbases, trims and seat layouts. It is VW Commercial Vehicle’s first zero-emission vehicle.
And finally…
Base vehicles also come in different trim levels. The VW Transporter T7, for example, is available as the Commerce, Commerce Plus and Commerce Pro. We’ll go into more detail about trim levels in a future blog.
At CamperKing we sell both ready-built vans and fully-customised campervans on the VW Transporter base vehicle. We can also source the base vehicle for you or convert and customise your own VW Transporter van.