A self-contained house that doesn’t require a foundation or connection to the electrical grid and that is 20x more energy efficient than traditional construction techniques is the promise of PassivDom’s Dom.ai, smart home. Those construction techniques include 3D-printing of the walls using special polymer composite materials, plug and play design and robotic assembly, yielding build-times of about five to six weeks.
Through such automation and efficiency improvement in manufacturing at a factory location, Max Gerbut, PassivDom’s CEO, hopes to reduce the labor costs from approximately 65% for the typical dwelling to 15% of the total cost of construction. Another potential cost reduction is permitting. Gerbut suggests traditional permitting might not be necessary, as their domiciles have Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), like a traditional trailer home. Long-term, he sees production being regionalized, reducing shipping costs.
By taking a holistic approach to the construction of the home, Gerbut indicates they create a water-proof and well-insulated (R-80 rating) building. This means that only 860 Watts is required to keep the home warm even during a -20-degree winter day and it has air conditioning for the hottest days. With oversized electricity generation from the integrated solar panels in combination with Lithium Iron Phosphate battery storage, there is enough power even in the cloudiest conditions. It also has water and heat recovery systems, adding to its overall efficiency.
Onboard storage of freshwater (375 gallons), greywater (50 gallons) and blackwater, together with shower recycling and a water purification system, bolsters its ability to serve off-grid locations. Further, the air quality system includes HEPA filtration, antibacterial system, CO2 and humidity sensors, and control. There are plentiful 6-pane windows with R-35 insulation value to provide wide-open views to the outside while insulating against the outside weather.
It is available in 400 square foot (modulOne) and 800 square foot (modulTwo) versions. Gerbut explains that their goal is to efficiently use the space while providing a high-quality experience. It includes best-of-breed appliances (e.g. Bosch dishwasher), electronics (100” video projector, surround sound) and furniture, making it a turnkey residence. Further, a smart home operating system (homeOS) serves as the brains of the unit, optimizing both efficiency and comfort.
Gerbut explains that their move to Reno, Nevada from Eastern Europe was driven by demand, as over 75% of the 12,000 people who have expressed interest in their housing solution are from the United States. Gerbut’s goal is to get to a production level of 1,000 units per year within the next two years.
The Beta versions will be available in the Spring of 2019 can be purchased for as low as $97,000 (cash upfront) or $127,000 with a 10% refundable deposit. Gerbut indicates that they are working to identify financing options for customers, as well as looking for partners for delivery and installation, sale support and after-sales services.
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