From Trafalgar Square to Red Square by Volkswagen California

A Volkswagen California is taking part in an eight day, 1,875 mile charity driving challenge from Trafalgar Square in London to Red Square in Russia to raise money for BEN, the motor industry and allied trades benevolent fund.

The Trafalgar Square to Red Square Rally starts in London on Saturday 14 July and will pass through seven countries – the UK, Holland, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Russia. It is expected to finish in Moscow on Saturday 21 July. The following website will contain daily updates with photos, video and a blog: trafalgarsquaretoredsquarerally.blogspot.com.

The Volkswagen California is being driven by Christopher Macgowan, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and president of BEN, and is being officially sponsored by The Caravan Club.

Macgowan said: ‘I’m very grateful to Volkswagen and The Caravan Club for their support for the BEN Trafalgar Square to Red Square Rally 2007. It will be an exciting and interesting trip, but more importantly it will raise essential funds for the automotive industry charity.’

Robert Hazelwood, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: ‘We’d like to wish BEN, and Christopher, the best of luck for this adventurous Trafalgar Square to Red Square Rally. A campervan gives great freedom to travel, and the car-like comfort, durability and compact size of the Volkswagen California will make it a perfect choice for this long distance trip.’

The California was launched in the UK in 2006 and it is the first official campervan conversion produced directly by Volkswagen in its own factory. It can sleep up to four and its specification includes an electrically operated pop-up roof, camping chairs and table, fridge, sink and cooker, plus inboard fresh water and waste water tanks. A single console operates the diesel fuel and electric heating systems, fridge temperature and roof deployment.

The California is powered by a five-cylinder, 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine, available with a choice of 130 PS or 174 PS power outputs as well as the option of Tiptronic transmission and 4MOTION, Volkswagen’s intelligent four-wheel drive system. Prices start from £35,162 on the road. For more information or to request a brochure please visit volkswagen-vans.co.uk/california.