Vans are becoming increasingly popular as more people recognize the practical benefits and versatility of their body style. Chinese automaker GAC has presented its vision for the future of this segment with the Van Life concept – an autonomous, all-terrain, and zero-emission vehicle that could easily fit in a sci-fi movie.
The Van Life is the second concept in GAC’s “Car Culture” series, following the Barchetta, and it was designed at the GAC R&D Center Europe. Due to the facility’s location in Milan, Italy, the company chose to showcase the concept at the 2023 Milan Design Week rather than the recent Shanghai Auto Show in China. According to GAC, this go-anywhere vehicle was designed for long-distance journeys as a sustainable alternative to air travel.
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The Van Life boasts one-box proportions and a symmetrical shape, with full-width LEDs on both ends, massive wheels, and a substantial ground clearance. The clean surfacing and small windows give it the appearance of an extraterrestrial expedition vehicle, ready to tackle rough terrain throughout our solar system. Additionally, the futuristic tires feature retractable flaps for optimal traction on any terrain, and four Lidar sensors protrude from the roof when the vehicle is in autonomous mode.
Interestingly, the autonomous function can be used anywhere in the world as the – fictional – system uses the position of stars in the sky to navigate. The concept rides on a fully electric platform with next-gen solid-state batteries providing it with extended range and improving its environmental credentials. The Van Life also boasts a reduced carbon footprint, with many of its lightweight components crafted from recycled waste materials such as plastic, aluminum, and carbon fiber.
The futuristic design of the Van Life is also reflected in its interior, featuring two seats and a massive space at the back for storing luggage and equipment, which can be effortlessly converted into a sleeping area. The “orbital frame” surrounding the cabin provides passengers with the flexibility to mount or hang a variety of items, such as smartphones, table trays, storage compartments, bags, and even a hammock. Additionally, the modular part at the front of the vehicle, which is exposed to the sun through an inclined windshield, can be utilized to warm water or generate energy from solar panels.
Access to the Van Life’s cabin is provided by suicide doors on one side of the vehicle, while a panoramic sunroof allows plenty of natural light to flood the interior, compensating for the absence of side windows. Another noteworthy feature of the concept is the sliding benches that create a seating area directly adjacent to the vehicle, expanding the living area to the outdoors.
According to Stéphane Janin, Director of GAC Advanced Design Milan, the Van Life concept is a celebration of freedom and adventure. “This concept highlights the joy of being able to go wherever you want,” he said. “We believe that cars are not just objects that transport people from A to B, but also machines that create lasting memories.”
While the Van Life concept is not intended to preview a future production vehicle, it serves as a testament to the designers’ boundless creativity and imagination. Nonetheless, we anticipate that vans will soon emerge as a genuine alternative for adventure-seekers, competing with traditional SUVs and pickups. As technology advances and environmental awareness increases, we may see more futuristic, sustainable, and versatile vehicles like the Van Life hit the road in the future.
