With drawer-like sliding mechanism, the toilet in the car does not occupy space in the cabin when not in use
Toilets are operational even in the tightest of spaces such as aircraft, spacecraft, submarines, crane cabs and nano apartments. In the automotive world, toilets can be found in camper vans, recreational vehicles, luxury buses, and long-haul trucks. Additionally, a patent has now been granted for a toilet installed inside an electric car. Let’s see the details.
Patent for hidden toilet under the seat – how does it work?
Chinese automaker Ceres filed a patent application for “in-vehicle toilet and vehicle” in April last year. The patent was recently approved in April 2026. It is possible that this could be the first patent of its kind for an electric vehicle. Although complex systems are likely to be deployed to make this vehicle toilet operational, it is quite easy to manage from a user perspective.
As can be seen in the patent images, the toilet in the vehicle is placed under the car seat. A sliding rail mechanism has been used, somewhat similar to what we see in a drawer. When not in use, the toilet in the vehicle will be neatly hidden under the seat. When it needs to be used, one can pull it out like a drawer. This ensures that the toilet in the vehicle does not encroach on the cabin space or create any unsightly conditions during normal vehicle use.
Although other details are not specified, it is possible that a suction-type mechanism may be used to make this vehicle toilet usable. This will reduce the amount of water that needs to be carried with the vehicle to make this toilet suitable for use. In an EV, sourcing the power to create a strong suction through the electric motor should not be a major challenge.
practical applications
Having a patent approved does not mean that the product, system or technology will reach the production stage. The commercial feasibility of such innovations is difficult to predict. In the case of this vehicle toilet, there can be many applications. For example, this system can be useful during long journeys, especially when toilet availability is limited en route.
An in-vehicle toilet can also be useful to deal with emergency situations like getting stuck in a big traffic jam. Such toilets can also be installed in commercial vehicles, providing much-needed relief to delivery professionals. People with specific conditions like IBS will also find this vehicle toilet quite useful.
real life challenges
Although an in-vehicle toilet may have practical applications, not everyone may be willing to use it. Critics on social media are pointing to challenges such as using the toilet in the presence of other passengers. Other factors like odor and cleanliness also need to be considered. Waste disposal is also something that many people may not feel comfortable with. Additionally, there are concerns regarding long-term reliability and maintainability of such systems.