The unveiling of the Cubert adds a fresh, more streamlined option to the modern landscape of Volkswagen adventure vehicles. While larger conversions—such as the robust, self-sufficient, and luxurious Basecamp crafted by Dutch converter Tonke—cater to those seeking ultimate off-grid capability and expansive living spaces, the Bodans Caddy Campervan takes a different route. It proves that significant outdoor utility can be packed into a remarkably small footprint. As urban adventurers and weekend explorers increasingly look for vehicles that can easily navigate tight city streets while still offering genuine camping comforts, compact conversions like the Cubert are carving out a distinct niche in the marketplace.
At the core of the Cubert is the Volkswagen Caddy platform, renowned for being the smallest ICE van in the automaker’s lineup. Bodans has taken this nimble base vehicle and engineered a surprisingly functional floor plan that maximizes every square inch of available space. The layout features a two-person cockpit at the front, separating the driving zone from the dedicated living quarters positioned directly behind.
One of the most striking exterior and functional additions to the Caddy is the rear-elevating pop-up roof. This clever architectural modification significantly increases interior headroom, allowing occupants to move around the cabin with greater ease. Furthermore, the pop-up roof is equipped with mesh windows that enhance ventilation, letting fresh air circulate through the living area during warmer nights spent in the great outdoors.
Beneath the sheet metal, the Cubert relies on Volkswagen’s advanced 114-horsepower plug-in hybrid drivetrain. This hybrid setup not only supports a more eco-conscious approach to travel but also offers a practical driving range of up to 116 kilometers on a single charge, making it well-suited for both daily commuting and short recreational getaways.
Inside the cabin, Bodans has maintained a cohesive and modern aesthetic. The interior is defined by a sophisticated gray color palette that extends across the flooring, custom cabinetry, and upholstery. This understated neutral base is complemented by integrated LED lighting strips, which wash the compact interior in a warm, inviting ambiance once the sun goes down.
Despite its diminutive size, the Cubert does not compromise on culinary capabilities. The kitchen space is situated along one side of the aisle, positioned directly across from the convertible sofa. It is fully functional, coming standard with an electric induction hob specifically designed to support off-grid cooking adventures. For travelers who prefer traditional methods or want added flexibility, Bodans also provides the option to include a two-burner gas hob.
To ensure campers can store fresh ingredients and provisions for their trips, the kitchen layout incorporates a convenient drawer-style refrigerator alongside a large sink for cleanup. Additional cabinetry built into the kitchen module provides plenty of dedicated storage for cookware, utensils, and pantry items, ensuring that the countertops remain clutter-free.
Directly opposite the kitchen sits a long convertible sofa that serves a dual purpose as both a daytime seating area and a comfortable nighttime sleeping berth. When bedtime arrives, the sofa easily transforms into a double bed, catering comfortably to two people. Practicality is further amplified by clever under-bed storage compartments, which offer secure locations to stash bulky camping gear, outdoor equipment, and personal belongings away from the main living space.
While the standard Cubert configuration is built to accommodate a couple, the vehicle’s versatility can be expanded. The pop-up roof does not feature an integrated mattress in its base form, but Bodans offers an optional lift-away double bed that can be added to the setup. This optional addition expands the van’s sleeping capacity to accommodate a total of four people. However, given the inherent spatial constraints of the Caddy’s compact floor plan, utilizing the vehicle for more than two travelers can make the interior feel somewhat cramped, making the standard two-person arrangement the most harmonious configuration for extended trips.
To tailor the vehicle to individual preferences and specific off-grid requirements, Bodans offers several optional upgrades. Adventurers can choose to equip their Caddy Campervan with a rooftop solar panel to help maintain auxiliary battery power while parked in remote locations. Inside, modern conveniences such as a compact microwave and a centralized touchscreen interface for managing onboard electrical controls can also be integrated into the build.
Bodans emphasizes that the Cubert can be tailored extensively to meet the unique tastes and lifestyle requirements of its buyers. The converter offers a wide range of custom exterior paint colors and interior finish combinations, ensuring that no two campervans need look identical. Professional customization services are also available for clients who require specific layout adjustments or specialized equipment.
Pricing for the Cubert reflects its bespoke conversion status and modern hybrid engineering. In its base configuration, the Cubert starts at £49,995, which is approximately $66,000, when built upon a brand-new Volkswagen Caddy van. For customers looking to economize, Bodans also offers the conversion service using a customer-supplied or pre-owned base vehicle, which reduces the starting price to £43,995, or roughly $58,000. Through this blend of compact dimensions, clever spatial design, and hybrid efficiency, the Bodans Cubert delivers a compelling new option for couples looking to explore the open road without the bulk of a traditional motorhome.
