Livable cabins: Vehicles as new homes

• Author:
• Author name

  Quantumrun Foresight
• June 5, 2024

Insight summary

Livable cabins are transforming electric vehicles (EVs) into cozier, more efficient spaces for users. With innovations like heated seat belts and climate controls, these enhanced interiors promise to extend EV ranges and redefine the vehicle as a multi-use environment for work, leisure, and travel. This evolving trend underscores a significant shift in how vehicles are perceived and utilized, sparking new business models, requiring infrastructure adjustments, and promoting a deeper integration of technology into everyday mobility.

Livable cabins context

Livable cabins offer an intriguing solution to EVs' energy consumption challenges during colder months. During CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2023, Germany-based automotive component manufacturer ZF introduced its heated seat belt technology, which aims to reduce the significant drain on EV batteries caused by heating the cabin. By integrating heating elements into seat belt webbing, these "heat belts" can quickly warm occupants without compromising safety or comfort, potentially increasing EV range by 15 percent when used with heated seats. 

Meanwhile, the rise in campervan conversions in the UK in 2022, as reported by the National Caravan Council (NCC), signifies a shift towards more personalized and versatile living spaces. Individuals were purchasing vans and converting them into bespoke mobile homes, enabling significant cost savings and customization. This trend, fueled by the desire for freedom and flexibility, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, has increased demand for campervans, outstripping supply and resulting in long wait times for delivery. The appeal of campervan conversions lies in their ability to tailor to personal tastes and needs, offering an alternative to traditional housing amid rising living costs and a housing crisis.

The trend towards more livable cabins is further highlighted by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 SUV's fast charging capabilities, addressing key concerns like range anxiety and charging times, making EVs more practical and appealing for daily use and long journeys. Features such as advanced multimedia systems, customizable interiors, and climate control options increase the comfort and usability of the cabin space. These features make the vehicle a pleasant, functional space that suits various needs, from daily commutes to longer journeys.

Disruptive impact

The enhancement of livable car cabins presents a shift towards vehicles that extend beyond mere transportation to become integrated spaces for work, relaxation, and even socialization. With features like comfortable seating, climate control, and connectivity options, cars may serve as mobile offices or leisure spaces, potentially reducing the stress of commuting and making time spent in transit more productive or restful. However, this increased comfort and utility might lead individuals to spend more time in their vehicles, potentially impacting their physical health due to reduced physical activity. 

Companies in the automotive industry may see an increase in collaboration with tech firms to integrate advanced digital and comfort features, leading to a shift in the competitive landscape where innovation in cabin experience becomes as critical as traditional factors like engine performance or fuel efficiency. This shift could open new revenue streams, such as subscription-based services for in-car entertainment and productivity tools, but it also requires significant investment in research and development. Additionally, businesses outside the automotive sector, such as software developers and content providers, may find new opportunities for growth through partnerships that enhance the in-car experience.

Meanwhile, the potential for cars to be used as mobile living spaces may influence public transportation usage and require revisions to infrastructure planning to accommodate vehicles equipped with these advanced features. Environmental policies may also need to adapt to ensure that the added energy consumption of in-car technologies does not offset the gains made by the transition to electric vehicles. Moreover, regulatory frameworks may need to evolve to address new safety and privacy concerns arising from the increased integration of digital technology within the automotive environment.

Implications of livable cabins

Wider implications of livable cabins may include: 

• Enhanced public interest in vehicle-to-grid technologies, where cars consume power and supply it back to the grid, promoting energy independence.
• Car manufacturers offering subscription-based models for in-car services and features, creating ongoing revenue streams beyond the initial vehicle purchase.
• A rise in telecommuting options, as more comfortable car cabins enable efficient mobile offices, reducing the need for physical office spaces.
• New insurance products tailored to cars as living spaces, covering aspects beyond traditional vehicle insurance, such as onboard technology protection.
• Urban planning adapting to the increased presence of cars as living and working spaces, requiring changes in parking infrastructure and zoning laws.
• A decrease in public transportation usage as individuals prefer the personalized comfort and convenience of their own vehicles, impacting funding and development of mass transit systems.
• Governments implementing stricter environmental regulations for in-car energy consumption and emissions, ensuring that comfort does not come at the cost of the planet's health.
• Auto manufacturers investing in advanced cybersecurity measures to protect users' data and privacy, given the increased connectivity and personalization of car cabins.
• The rise in demand for skilled labor in information technology and interior design within the automotive sector, to develop and integrate sophisticated cabin features.

Questions to consider

• How could integrating livable car cabins change your daily commute and overall lifestyle?
• How might enhanced in-car technologies influence your choices in vehicle ownership or usage in the future?