Volkswagen has launched the Caravelle eHybrid locally, combining petrol and electric power in a plug-in hybrid format. It is the latest version of the long-running Volkswagen Bus, a vehicle that has been part of South African motoring history for decades.
What is it?
The Caravelle eHybrid is a plug-in hybrid people carrier. It sits within Volkswagen’s commercial vehicle line-up and is designed to provide electric driving capability for everyday use while retaining a petrol engine for longer trips. With a combined output of 180kW and 350Nm, it is the most powerful Caravelle yet offered in South Africa.
Interior:
The cabin is fitted with a range of equipment aimed at passenger comfort and convenience. Standard features include three-zone climate control with a rear passenger panel, a Harman Kardon sound system with 13 speakers, a leather multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles and ambient lighting with 30 colour options. Electrically operated sliding doors, a power-operated tailgate and dark-tinted privacy glass are also part of the specification.
Exterior:
The exterior design follows Volkswagen’s current styling approach, with IQ. LIGHT LED Matrix headlamps, LED daytime running lights and 17-inch Dundrod alloy-wheels. Practical features include Easy Open and Easy Close functionality for the sliding doors.
Engine, hybrid and battery:
The Caravelle eHybrid uses a 1.5-litre TSI evo2 turbocharged petrol engine producing 130kW and 250Nm, paired with an electric motor integrated into a six-speed DSG transmission. Together they deliver 180kW and 350Nm. A 19.7kWh lithium-ion battery allows up to 95 kilometres of all-electric driving, while the combined range extends to 700 kilometres. Charging options include a 7.4kW AC Wallbox for home use, 11kW AC charging at offices and public facilities, and 40kW DC fast charging, which can recharge the battery from 10% to 80% in about 26 minutes. Regenerative braking recovers energy during deceleration.
Price and warranty:
The Volkswagen Caravelle eHybrid is priced at R1 794,000. It comes with a 3-year/120 000km manufacturer warranty, a 5-year/100 000km Easy Drive maintenance plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km. Battery coverage includes a 2-year unlimited warranty or an 8-year/160 000km warranty.
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