Tonke Unveils Minimal yet Comfortable Camper Conversion for Volkswagen's ID.Buzz

Dutch RV innovator Tonke is working hard on expanding what promises to be one of the most impressive electric camper van lineups in the world, and the latest addition to their repertoire is a Volkswagen ID.Buzz mini-camper built with a focus on sustainability and versatility to fit different lifestyles.

Volkswagen's iconic micro-vans played a key role in the birth of the camper van culture in the US back in the 1960s, so it's only fitting that the long-awaited modern version is now contributing to the big revolution in the RV world - the e-camper era.

Tonke's first e-camper prototype is based on a five-seat ID.Buzz People MPV, but the RV specialist reassures the VW ID.Buzz Module kit can also be fitted on other versions of the van, like the ID. Buzz Cargo. Developed for the 185-inch (471-cm) long ID.Buzz SWB, the camping kit is said to be engineered to fit both long- and short-wheelbase ID. Buzz vans. So those waiting for Volkswagen's upcoming LWB version will also be able to use it.

The camping solution created by the Wagenberg, Netherlands-based firm doesn't include permanent furniture. Instead, the modular kit is discreetly housed in the tailgate area of the van, so it doesn't compromise the base vehicle's passenger-carrying abilities.

A testament to Tonke's expertise in creating smart and efficient designs, this ID.Buzz-based camper van keeps the five factory seats for everyday driving and adds a light and flexible all-electric camping module that can be installed and removed as needed. The Tonke kit includes a comfortable double bed that spans the full width of the cabin and a bidirectional kitchen that slides out and allows campers to cook either inside or outside the van.

The bed is surprisingly large considering the compact size of the van. It measures 59 by 79 inches (150 by 200 cm), so it almost matches a residential queen bed, ensuring campers will enjoy a restful night's sleep. This is a design choice that differentiates Tonke's offering from other ID. Buzz camper conversions that often compromise bed size in favor of storage cabinets and other furniture pieces.

The Tonke box that serves as a foundation for this bed incorporates two large drawers that make up the kitchen setup. These drawers are spacious enough to house storage crates and all the tools and kitchen utensils one needs on the road.

The driver-side drawer is where the available 31-L compressor refrigerator resides, while the passenger-side unit can be used for storage. The latter is topped by a separate slide-out that incorporates a dual-burner induction cooktop and a collapsible sink basin, both of which are designed with efficiency and ease of use in mind. A 12-liter water canister tucked between the drawers feeds the sink sprayer, and an extendable hose can be used outside of the van as a makeshift shower or for cleaning shoes, tools, etc.

At first sight, the kitchen configuration might appear to be a basic slide-out, but it is surprisingly functional and its slim design allowed Tonke to give it bidirectional capability that allows it to slide out as well as inside, adding versatility to the system. The separate stove/sink slide with bidirectional capability slides over the top of the folded passenger-side rear seat to be used as an indoor kitchen space. This is quite an ingenious setup and comes in handy particularly when the weather is not convenient for cooking outside.

It's worth mentioning that the induction cooktop does not run off the van's battery. Instead, it requires a 230-V shore power hookup. However, for those who are seeking a completely off-grid camping experience, Tonke offers an optional all-in-one lithium power station and solar charging hardware, aligning with the all-electric and sustainable nature of the ID.Buzz.

During the day, when the bed is neatly folded away toward the back of the van, those who opt for swiveling front seats can create a nice lounging and dining space together with the passenger seats behind.

Besides creating an attractive living space for a comfortable camping experience, perhaps the main benefit of Tonke's innovative Buzz Module is that it is removable, meaning that it enables owners to still use their vehicles as everyday electric MPV cargo vans when not out exploring the great outdoors. When not in use, owners can either store the camping kit somewhere else or leave it inside the van, as it doesn't hinder the use of the three rear seats in any way.

In terms of pricing, Tonke offers the main Buzz Module with drawers, induction cooktop, sink system, and bed for €4,955 (which is approximately US $5,430) at current exchange rates. Those looking for off-grid camping might want to also equip their vans with the optional €2,100 power station or one of the various solar panel setups available.

Next year, Tonke plans to offer a camper kit for the long-wheelbase version of the Volkswagen Buzz as well, and it will reportedly include an optional pop-up roof for extra headroom and a folding toilet.