Deepal Auto files patent for retractable in-car foot bath system
Chinese manufacturer Deepal Auto has patented an integrated foot bath device designed to retract into a storage compartment beneath the passenger seat.
Deepal Auto has secured a patent for an in-car foot care device featuring a collapsible basin and a telescopic mechanism. The design allows the unit to be stowed beneath the front passenger seat when not in use, addressing the space-efficiency issues common with fixed or external automotive health equipment.
The system includes built-in splash protection, drainage ports, and a quick-connect coupling to integrate with the vehicle’s fluid systems. The basin is removable, and the dedicated storage area is designed to house optional disinfection modules. The design aims to prevent the obstruction of passenger legroom while maintaining the utility of the vehicle's interior.
In its patent filing, the company cited a shift in consumer demand, noting that vehicles are increasingly utilized for resting and wellness during long-distance travel. Deepal Auto suggests that traditional foot care solutions often conflict with existing vehicle structures, complicating both installation and daily use.
The patent, published in October, reflects a broader industry trend toward expanding vehicle functionality to include personal care and wellness services.