Trakka – the European automaker that takes base or entry-level, previously manufactured vehicles and spices them up to meet the needs of specific consumer markets has a new toy to showcase. Their latest creation takes a VW T6 ‘station wagon’ and enhances it to a new camper van, with features including lithium batteries and solar charging capability. The new Trakkadu 450 S family truckster on steroids is a possible glimpse at what future camping fans may actively search for in upcoming years.
This new VW camper began as a base T6 Volkswagen van that has been loaded with 4Motion all-wheel drive, rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, and features a 6.5-inch infotainment system that rivals common US luxury vehicles. LED taillights, headlights, daytime running lights, Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker sound system and a slew of driver-assist safety features including adaptive cruise-control, rear-view camera and VW’s post-collision braking system have also been added. Power is derived from a 201-horsepower dual-turbo diesel engine paired to a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Trakkadu is offering the 450 S in multiple interior and exterior colors – with consumers having the option to customize color packages if they wish. The marketing photos show this vehicle with a dark interior with several silvers, blacks, and charcoals.
Speaking of the inside, this travel van can sleep two on the bed by a foldable, sliding rear bench seat. The pop-up roof increases cabin space, and consumers can opt for an optional bed if desired. The kitchen area includes an elegant glass-ceramic cooktop and a refrigerator/freezer unit. The cooktop is powered by the same fuel as the vehicle, rather than a separate fuel tank like most RV’s. When the supper bell rings, a removable outdoor/indoor table sets up between the rear bench and the front seats – or can secure on the outside of the van for a picnic style eating experience.
However, the star of this show is the 125-Ah lithium battery. Now, we don’t want the headline to confuse you into believing that this VW is a solar powered vehicle. This battery system powers the vehicle’s accessories but features a solar charging system that helps the battery maintain a full charge. App monitoring allows users to monitor the electrical system to be checked by users when they are away from the van.
Additional standard features on the Trakkadu 450 S include dimmable outdoor and indoor LED lighting, a power awning, rear shower, 12-volt fan, and two-way water storage system including a 55-liter fresh water tank and 30-liter gray water tank. For consumers looking to purchase one of these mobile mini-campers, the price tag is expected to approach $100,000 USD.
Tags: Electric Cars, New Model