the survival capsule that arrives from France

In these times of geopolitical tensions and natural disasters that are increasingly frequent and in unexpected places, having a refuge from possible catastrophes is an idea that sounds better and better. In fact, the EU recommends have a survival kit to “be able to survive for at least 72 hours.” The French startup Momentum Technologies is developing has detected this need and already has up to three portable survival capsules in its catalog ready to use anywhere, no matter what happens.

French survival capsules. They are called LifePods and aesthetically they look similar to the cabins of many attractions, although if you ride what will be outside it will be anything but fun:

• The B01 is designed to offer ballistic and industrial protection. It is a ground capsule for up to two people, armored against bullets, explosions and fires.
• The W01 is a floating capsule designed for tsunamis and floods and can accommodate up to four people.
• The Q01 is still a concept, but it will serve to protect its occupants during earthquakes and will serve up to three people.

Why laptops? Building security infrastructures is not something new, but the most interesting thing about these capsules compared to fixed construction bunkers is that they are modular, transportable and standardized, which allows them to be stacked in warehouses, they fit in containers, which facilitates transport by trucks or even helicopters and easy and quick deployment by emergency forces or administrations.

In detail. The B-01 has structural armor made of high-hardness ballistic steel and according to the company, its panels have exceeded the international VPAM PM7 standard, a recognized standard for resistance to high-speed military projectiles. As for the W-01, its mechanism to stay afloat does not depend on engines or complex mechanical systems that can fail at critical moments: it is covered with 5083 marine aluminum, Kevlar and polymer and has a hydrodynamically stable design, so it uses its own natural buoyancy.

The price range ranges between 29,000 and 40,000 euros, without shipping or installation and these capsules are aimed more at governments, security forces and institutions rather than individuals. The company’s roadmap details that this year they will be at fairs such as VivaTech and Eurosatory, the first deliveries will begin in 2027 and then they will carry out the development of the Q01.

Yes, but. The concept of a prefabricated bunker is coherent, it already exists and in fact responds to a real demand, but it still has pending issues such as obtaining complete official certifications for the finished capsules as an integral system and in real conditions.

In Xataka | The threat from Russia is taking Europe to something unprecedented: from the bunkers of the Cold War to bunkers anywhere

In Xataka | A secret Nazi bunker in Germany hides the most sought-after treasure on the entire planet: hundreds of tons of rare earths

Cover | Momentum Technologies