Volkswagen’s eHybrid 4MOTION Powers a New Era for the Multivan and California
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has hit the accelerator on electrified innovation with its latest offering: the eHybrid 4MOTION system, now integrated into the iconic Multivan and California models. Designed for those who crave both adventure and efficiency, this ground-breaking plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive setup marks a bold new chapter in the van and camper van sector.
Combining three essential drive modes — pure electric, hybrid for long-distance cruising, and all-wheel drive for unbeatable traction — the eHybrid 4MOTION is unlike anything else in the market. It allows owners to navigate the school run in silence, cruise across countries, or conquer muddy campsites without breaking a sweat.
Smooth, Silent, and Far-Reaching
At the core of the eHybrid system is its dual-electric motor setup, providing drive to both front and rear axles. This architecture enables seamless electric-only travel up to 95km on a full charge, courtesy of the 19.7kWh battery. With rapid AC and DC charging capabilities, the Multivan and California are ready to roll with minimal downtime. In fact, a 10 to 80 per cent charge can be achieved in roughly 26 minutes at a DC fast-charging station.
Even better, both models can reach speeds of up to 130km/h in electric mode, meaning daily commutes or even longer excursions can be made emission-free. As highlighted by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport: “95 per cent of all vehicle journeys are shorter than 50 kilometres” — well within the range of these plug-in powerhouses.
Comfort Without Compromise
Whether it’s sweltering summer or a crisp winter morning, the standard-fit stationary air conditioning offers a breath of fresh air — literally. The system pre-cools or pre-heats the cabin while plugged in, boosting both comfort and efficiency. When parked or camping, the air conditioning can run emission-free using battery power or an external power source.
For campers, this feature offers a particular advantage. The California model can be specified with continuous-operation air conditioning, operated via the integrated camper van control unit. It’s a rare blend of practicality and luxury that’s hard to top.
Built for the Long Haul
The eHybrid 4MOTION system cleverly blends electric and petrol power for maximum range. Powered by the 1.5 TSI evo2 turbocharged engine alongside dual electric motors, the setup delivers 180kW (245 PS) of system output and up to 350 Nm of torque.
Depending on drive mode and battery state, the vehicle can switch fluidly between:
- Front electric motor (85kW)
- Rear electric motor (100kW)
- TSI engine for high-speed or low-battery scenarios
A disengagement clutch disconnects the rear axle above 130km/h to conserve energy, while kickdown acceleration triggers full system engagement. In normal conditions, the petrol engine deactivates during coasting or light load, improving overall economy.
Tailored Drive Modes for Every Journey
To cater for every driving style and terrain, VW offers four drive modes:
- Eco: Prioritises efficiency with reduced power output and gentler throttle response.
- Comfort: Balances smoothness and efficiency.
- Sport: Unleashes full power with aggressive throttle mapping and constant all-wheel drive up to 130km/h.
- Individual: Fully customisable, including optional systems like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and DCC chassis control.
Whether you’re driving through a blizzard or cruising a coastal highway, there’s a mode that fits like a glove.
True All-Wheel Confidence with eHybrid 4MOTION
Traction and stability are handled by a smart ESC-controlled system, distributing torque dynamically between the front and rear. If the battery is low, the petrol engine and front motor combine to act as a generator, keeping the rear electric motor energised.
What sets this system apart is its decoupled architecture. Unlike traditional AWD setups with a propshaft, the eHybrid rear axle is electronically controlled. This results in faster, more precise torque allocation, particularly on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Drivers can activate permanent AWD by selecting Sport mode or changing ESC settings — perfect for snow, gravel, or soggy festival fields.
Turbocharged Brilliance – The TSI evo2 Engine
The petrol component of the hybrid system, the 1.5 TSI evo2, is a marvel in its own right. Producing 130kW (177 PS) and 250 Nm, it features:
- Variable turbine geometry (VTG) turbo
- 350 bar direct fuel injection
- Plasma-coated cylinder walls for reduced friction
- Advanced cooling and combustion based on the Miller cycle
The result? A remarkably efficient combustion process that delivers clean, consistent power with lower emissions.
Dual-Motor Drive – Electric Power Front and Rear
The front electric motor (85kW, 330 Nm) is integrated with a six-speed DSG gearbox, supporting coasting and regenerative braking. Meanwhile, the rear axle features a 100kW (136 PS) motor delivering 250 Nm via a single-speed transmission.
A “normally open” dog clutch allows the rear motor to engage seamlessly only when needed. This set-up also enables rear-wheel-only propulsion if the front wheels lose traction — a rare feature for hybrid vans.
A New Benchmark in Battery Power
With 96 cells and state-of-the-art thermal liquid cooling, the 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery doubles the capacity of previous Multivan hybrids. It ensures longer EV range, better thermal stability, and quick recovery through regenerative braking.
The battery also supports:
- Up to 11kW AC charging at home
- Up to 50kW DC fast charging on the go
- Smart energy management between front/rear motors and onboard systems
Advanced Power Electronics
Two dedicated power electronics modules — one for each axle — handle the conversion from DC to AC, manage energy flow, and power the 12V vehicle systems. This twin-module design ensures more efficient and balanced distribution of energy across both motors.
Onboard is a new charger module, capable of faster replenishment and supporting a wider range of charging stations. Whether at home or enroute, drivers have flexible and rapid charging options.
From FWD to Full Hybrid AWD
Volkswagen’s journey with hybrid vans began in 2021 with a front-wheel-drive Multivan offering 160kW of system power. Today, that has evolved into a full eHybrid all-wheel platform with 180kW, dynamic torque distribution, and trailblazing off-road ability.
All this innovation stems from VW’s commitment to creating a future-ready van that doesn’t compromise. It’s not just about technology — it’s about giving drivers more freedom to explore, camp, work, and travel sustainably.
A Forward-Looking Drive Experience
From tackling snowy mountain trails to stealthily navigating a sleeping campsite, the Multivan and California eHybrid 4MOTION open new doors for hybrid mobility. With silent cruising, precise AWD, and a clever mix of electric and petrol drive, this new platform delivers in ways traditional vans simply can’t.
Volkswagen has set the bar for plug-in hybrid vans, marrying versatility, performance and eco-consciousness into a single, compelling package.
