Ecocapsule (via Nice Architects)
Ecocapsule interior (via Nice Architects)
Want to go off the grid without having to part with the comforts of flushable toilets and hot showers? A small architectural studio based in Slovakia called Nice Architects is preparing to launch its portable, off-grid home called the Ecocapsule. It is entirely wind and solar powered and can self-sustain its energy supply for nearly a full year without ever needing a charge.
(via Nice Architects)
The Ecocapsule is a portable home that is meant to bring the comforts of home off of the grid. Originally intended for researchers or faint-hearted campers, this egg-shaped futuristic pod is equipped with a kitchenette, water faucet, full-sized bed, bathroom, workspace and even storage. At only 14.6 feet long, 7.4 feet wide and 8.4 feet tall, it’s small enough to be towed and respectively much more comfortable than even your finest tent.
The pod maintains its energy from 600W solar panels and a built-in 750W wind turbine. Its curved shape also naturally allows for the collection of rainwater (which you’ll need for those long, hot showers). It features both energy technologies to increase the probability that it can maintain its energy from either wind or sunlight, and any energy it doesn’t use is stored into a high-power battery.
The Ecocapsule is fitted with 2.6 square meters of optimum solar cells and the wind turbine is retractable for travel. It weighs 3,300 pounds and Nice Architects claims the tiny eco-home is compact and sturdy enough to be shipped, airlifted or even dragged by a pack of wild dogs. The possibilities are endless.
Ecocapsule blueprint (via Nice Architects)
While the portable house is said to be large enough for two people, some may feel restricted if this was their primary, long-term home. Nice Architects hopes, instead, that the concept takes off as a temporary dwelling for emergency responders, researchers who work off-grid or even campers who don’t want to take their chances camping with the bears. If you’re a lone wolf, like camping in style (aka "Glamping" glamour camping), maybe the Ecocapsule is big and versatile enough for just you.
(via Nice Architects)
Nice Architects are touring with the Ecocapsule at the Pioneers festival in Vienna this week. It will also be showcased at the national pavilion during Slovakia’s Expo 2015. The company hasn’t announced a price yet, but said it will be revealed during Q4 at the end of this year. Pre-orders will be taken at the end of the year and the product can be shipped. In the future, you will also be able to customize your pod if you order early. Maybe you can request it look like a police box. Everyone knows the box is bigger on the inside.
I love the concept. Living with less is always the goal. It clears your mind, detaches you from the system. In this case, literally. If this makes it to retail... I bet the price will be far from "hippy."
C
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