Seres, a Chinese electric SUV brand, has been granted a patent to install voice-activated 'in-vehicle toilets' in its EVs, according to multiple reports. The invention is a waste disposal unit that slides under the passenger seat so that passengers can use the lavatory while on the move, with the idea that it should be used during long car trips. The toilet, which is still a prototype, is activated when needed and otherwise remains concealed under the seat.
When in use, waste is collected in a tank that must be emptied manually, similar to systems found in caravans or motorhomes. The container requires regular emptying to maintain functionality. To manage hygiene, the system incorporates a rotating heating element so urine and other waste can be dried and evaporated, as stated by the company.
How on earth do you get your pants down when you're sitting and driving a car?
It also includes a fan with ventilation pipes to reduce odor, and an exhaust pipe to channel smells out of the car. The fan and exhaust pipe work together to ventilate the system and minimize odors inside the vehicle. Despite these features, uncertainty surrounds the commercial implementation of the toilet.
Seres has not confirmed if any of its cars will have toilets fitted as standard. Hygiene concerns have been raised by experts; according to TV4 Nyheterna, Marie-Louise Danielsson-Tham, a professor in food hygiene, described skepticism about the idea, particularly from a hygiene perspective. The professor's skepticism highlights potential challenges in maintaining cleanliness with such an in-vehicle system.
It doesn't work. But hygienically? Yes, they'll have to put up with a little smell in the car, but many want to do this in a private space.
Historically, in-car toilets are rare, with one known example in a one-off 1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith that recently changed hands at auction. This historical precedent underscores the novelty of Seres' approach in modern electric vehicles.
If you absolutely want to go to the toilet when you're in the car, you can always stop somewhere. And if you know you have urgent needs, then bring a bucket with a lid on it.