They present a multipurpose amphibious capsule capable of functioning as a boat, office or tent (PHOTOS)

Published:

4 Apr 2023 11:28 GMT

It was developed by a New Zealand company that was approached to create a tsunami shelter.

A New Zealand company presented a multipurpose amphibian capsule, capable of being a portable office, a room, a food stand and even a boat. The new structure is called POD, a name taken from ‘Point of Difference’.

The idea began to develop after 2011, when the company’s specialists Dreadnort Boatsbased in Auckland, New Zealand, approached them to create a tsunami shelter that could be used both over water and on land.

From then on, work began that led to the prototype of the POD and, although its structure would not allow it to withstand the force of a tsunami, it can be used for various purposes thanks to its different versions.

The capsule, whose cost reaches NZ$98,000 (approximately US$61,500), is constructed of 5mm marine grade aluminum sheeting and 6mm toughened safety glass windows. Its measurements are 5.1 x 2.5 x 2.5 meters, It has a plant vision area of 94 square meters and a maximum interior height of two meters. Its weight barely exceeds a ton.

The prototype has V-shaped seats that can accommodate up to 12 adults. There are also under-seat storage areas and two pull-out tables that can be converted into beds. Regarding power, it is equipped with two solar panels 150 watts that charge a 200 Ah deep cycle battery and has power sockets, 12 volt outlets and USB.

It also has three light circuits including interior overhead, ambient in-ground and exterior lighting above the entryway.

Finally, Dreadnort Boats explained that the capsule can be moved on a boat trailer and has a device on the roof that allows it to be hoisted by a crane or helicopter. Once in place, its height-adjustable ‘legs’ sit it about 10 centimeters off the ground and its occupants enter via a series of folding steps.