A new patent obtained by Chinese automaker Seres has already sparked debate. The rail-mounted toilet system hidden under the seat raises many questions.
Huawei's electric vehicle manufacturing partner, Seres, has obtained a new patent that is set to break new ground in automotive interior design and spark considerable debate. The patent, filed on April 22, 2025, and officially granted on April 10, 2026, details a hidden toilet system integrated into the vehicle.
At the heart of this design is a toilet bowl and a rail-mounted mechanism. The most striking aspect of the system is its space utilization. Especially in new energy vehicles (NEVs) where interior space is limited due to battery packs, this toilet operates on a "drawer" principle. When needed, the toilet slides out from under the seat, and after use, it slides back in, completely hidden, taking up no extra space in the vehicle.
In fact, this concept is not entirely new in the automotive world. Previously, the Polestone brand introduced the idea of a portable toilet seat stored in the center console and used with disposable plastic bags. However, Seres' design is described as the most practical in-car toilet solution proposed to date, thanks to its full integration and complete concealability within the vehicle.
Technical Challenges and Psychological Barriers
Despite being patented, there are significant challenges that need to be overcome for this system to enter mass production. On the technical side, there are major engineering hurdles such as wastewater storage and drainage, particularly the placement of drainage pipes within the narrow chassis of electric vehicles, and ensuring 100% odor impermeability. Of course, ensuring complete cabin hygiene is another fundamental requirement.
A greater obstacle than engineering, however, is the process of psychological acceptance. No matter how advanced the sealing and odor-prevention systems are, users may approach the idea of using a toilet inside a vehicle with prejudice. Therefore, it is thought that this design might be offered as a personalized option added upon special request, rather than being included in all models.
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