Ecco: zero-emissions mobile living

A zero-emissions mobile living solution by NAU | Future Design Series no. 5

Since their introduction, automobiles have been a source of passion and meanings as individual as their drivers. Today they are often associated with luxury, performance or safety, but the Ecco aims to remind us they can still be about freedom.

Following on the heels of design classics like the Airstream or VW camper van, the Ecco gets passengers to their destination, and becomes a temporary home when they get there. Compact, stylish and aerodynamic while on the road; when it is parked, the Ecco expands to provide a level of space and comfort that its forebearers could only dream of.

The exterior is a harmonious blend of precision aluminum and glass. Its direct and sculptural form cheats the wind while pleasing the eye. While a bit wider than its Volkswagen predecessor, the Ecco’s form is more aerodynamic, and the vehicle rides closer to the ground. The result is vastly improved interior volume, wonderful sight-lines for all passengers, and less wind resistance to boot.

As an all-electric vehicle, the Ecco has no emissions of its own, and can be quickly charged at a standard 240V station. But when used for extended living purposes, even where no electricity is available, its built-in photovoltaic panels and solar sail roof mean that it can cut out the middle man, and charge directly from the sun. The Ecco’s promise: Zero emissions. Zero guilt. Unlimited space to dream.

LEGEND
1. Photovoltaic cells
2. Entry/bathroom pod (compressed)
3. Passenger area
4. Water storage
5. Drivetrain
6. Membrane roof (folded)
7. Drive Mode door
8. Photovoltaic cell on roof
9. Membrane roof (unfolded)
10. Sleeping loft
11. Entry for Living Mode
12. Kitchen with cooktop
13. Living area with variable seating
14. Entry stair
15. Combined toilet/shower room
16. Sink
17. Fold-down extra bed
TECHNICAL

Dimensions

Length: 4.62m

Width: 2.55m

Height: 1.97m

Weight: 1,600kg (3527lbs)

Occupancy: 5 persons

Construction

Envelop: sealed aluminum skin (clearcoat & black lacquer)

Integrated thin-film photovoltaic cellson roof & expansion membrane

Unibody all aluminum chassis

Power

Photovoltaic generation: 1.1kW

Charge time (240V): 8 hours

Electric Motors (combined): 127hp