A spontaneous encounter at the CMT 2026 in Stuttgart led to a partnership between the Allgäu-based company Stuff Bubble and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles being established in record time. At the Caravan Salon 2026 in Düsseldorf, the partners are now unveiling for the first time two modules developed specifically for the California Beach: an inflatable kitchen and a flexible bed system. Both products are based on a textile construction similar to that used in wings or kites. The aim is to bridge the gap between a classic everyday van and a fully-fledged campervan. According to the manufacturer, development took place very quickly following the initial contact at the trade fair. Stefan Mecha, CEO of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, invited the founders Benjamin Hörburger and Markus Wolf to Hannover with their vehicle shortly after the CMT to see the concepts for himself. The concept vehicles on display at the Caravan Salon are intended to gather feedback from visitors and provide a glimpse of upcoming technologies in the campervan sector.
Inflatable kitchen with a closed-loop water system
Stuff Bubble states that the inflatable kitchen has been designed to fit perfectly onto the luggage board of the California Beach. Measuring approximately 120 × 44 × 47.5 centimetres, the module weighs less than ten kilograms. Despite its light weight, the kitchen offers a full range of functions, including an integrated, closed-loop water system. The module can be split into two parts and used either inside or outside the vehicle, depending on the application. The design is based on high-tech textiles familiar from paragliding and kitesurfing. When not in use, the kit can be stowed away in the cellar or garage to save space, whilst the van remains a fully-fledged everyday vehicle. “A few years ago, we wouldn’t have believed ourselves that a manufacturer like Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles would be so open to two tinkerers with inflatable furniture,” explains Benjamin Hörburger, founder and managing director of Stuff Bubble.
Flexible bed system for up to four people
According to the manufacturer, this flexible bed system goes far beyond a simple air mattress. The sleeping surface, measuring approximately 200 × 134 centimetres, is based on a multi-layered, breathable construction. The system can be used as a double bed weighing 12 kilograms or as a single bed weighing 6 kilograms. The California Beach thus offers up to four sleeping places. Even with the bed set up, there is still enough space for living, cooking or stowing luggage. The real highlight is its modularity: the kitchen and bed function independently of one another, can be separated and combined as desired. Both modules are also compatible with the Multivan, giving its owners and business lease customers easy access to the world of camping. The manufacturer promises that an everyday or business van can be transformed into a travel and leisure companion in no time at all, without compromising on strengths such as versatility and space.
For more information, see stuffbubble.com
