A new self-sufficient eco-pod could revolutionise off-grid experiences for travelers in the US.
As many road-trippers realise, the most satisfying form of accommodation is the one you can tow to the back of the car. A microhome on wheels with a comfy bed, toilet, shower, workspace and kitchenette. What more could you ask for? Built-in heating and air-conditioning maybe? Solar and wind panels? A system that filters lake and rainwater into drinking water to keep the trip as sustainable as possible?
That might seem like a huge ask but Ecocapsules (tiny egg-shaped campers) have got all of the above covered and then some. Designed by Slovakian firm Nice Architects, they launched in the US this month by showcasing a model Ecocapsule in Times Square as part of the NYCxDesign festival (winning top prize in the Health and Wellness category).
Designed to be completely self-sufficient, the little pods are happy at home in most environments, even remote locations. Powered by solar panels and 750w retractable wind turbines, they don't need to be plugged into a power source to be fully functional. Their oval shape is designed to collect rainwater, which is then filtered into clean water for drinking and showers.
They're equipped to hold their own against the elements in all seasons due to thick walls (7.8 inches) that can cope comfortably with temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10C) and as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40c).
Ecocapsules don't come cheap, with the cost of bespoke models rising up to US$94,000 (£73,833). If you're interested in finding out more, you can do so here.
