The Futureproof Series.
Postcards
From the Future.
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Futureproof Series
Postcards From the Future
As part of designbivouac’s Futureproof Series, this collection offers a set of visual explorations and concise narratives designed to spark conversation, challenge assumptions, and inspire strategic thinking about what lies ahead.
“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.”
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Methodology
Futurecasting is a creative process where designers explore various social, cultural, economic, political, and ecological factors to envision potential futures. Rather than predicting the future with certainty, futurecasting focuses on imagining possible and preferable scenarios that inform long-term strategies. It helps businesses understand the forces shaping the future, anticipate changes, and create proactive strategies. Preferable futures align technology with human needs while ensuring sustainability from a planetary perspective.
“The best way to predict the future is to design it.”
Frameworks
The Futureproof: Postcards From the Future series draws on frameworks, such as Joseph Voros’s Futures Cone and backcasting, to guide its exploration. By working backward from a desirable future state to our current reality, backcasting helps identify the necessary conditions to achieve a preferred vision. The aim is to encourage thoughtful consideration of our shared future and inspire active participation in shaping it.
Visual and Narrative Approach
The series' visual approach integrates AI tools into the creative process, blending visuals with written narratives that evolve organically as each postcard from the future takes form. The series is designed to inspire deeper reflection on the necessary actions to make our collective preferred future a reality.
Retro/Future Electrics
I was blown away last year when I discovered that a YM-RX10 body kit—the new design that references the iconic RX7 from the 1980s—was finally available in electric form. What once felt like a dream reserved for concept art and fan forums is now a reality, thanks to Yutani Mobility. Yutani Mobility has ushered in a new era of personalized transportation with its customizable retro body kits, which are mated seamlessly to the latest modular electric vehicle chassis.
Future Narrative
I was blown away last year when I discovered that a YM-RX10 body kit—the new design that references the iconic RX7 from the 1980s—was finally available in electric form. What once felt like a dream reserved for concept art and fan forums is now a reality, thanks to Yutani Mobility. Yutani Mobility has ushered in a new era of personalized transportation with its customizable retro body kits, which are mated seamlessly to the latest modular electric vehicle chassis. Want an ‘80s street racer look with 2030s tech under the hood? No problem. Prefer a sleek ‘70s touring coupe with modern-day range and autonomy? They’ve got you. The road ahead just got a lot cooler!
The on-demand service is impressive. Cost and turnaround times are surprisingly reasonable, especially considering the level of customization involved. This isn’t slow, bespoke coachbuilding—it’s high-tech, scalable design. Yutani’s assembly process leans heavily on the “unboxed” manufacturing revolution that started reshaping the industry in the mid-2020s, eliminating traditional production constraints in favor of modular, decentralized build systems.
The result? The best of both worlds. Timeless aesthetics. Cutting-edge performance. And a whole new way to connect with the car culture of the past—without sacrificing the clean, efficient mobility of the future.
Last month, I took my electric YM-RX10 to a local track day. This wasn’t just a nostalgia trip but a full-on, future-forward experience. The YM-RX10, with its classic lines and fully modern internals, handled the circuit like it was born for it. Crisp cornering, confident acceleration, and silent power—it felt like piloting the soul of an ‘80s icon with the brain of a 2035 supercar.
What stood out, though, was how many others were doing the same thing. I met a fellow enthusiast who had just taken delivery of a fully electrified Chevrolet Camaro Berlinetta Model 2038, lovingly updated by Weyland Mobility Group. He was just as passionate about '80s GM designs as I am about early Mazdas. His Berlinetta 2038 kept all the right visual cues from the original—sleek, angular lines with a refreshed, aggressive stance. It was instantly recognizable but unmistakably next-gen.
We ran laps together all afternoon. My YM-RX10, equipped with advanced AI-assisted torque vectoring and adaptive traction control, held tight in the technical sections. His Berlinetta, sporting a larger battery pack and superior straight-line performance, passed me more than once on the back straight. Both vehicles featured Level 5 autonomous capabilities, though we left the driving to our reflexes that day—because some things, like a good corner, are best experienced the old-fashioned way.
By the end of the day, we both agreed: these made-to-order electric classics aren’t just a gimmick. They represent a new golden age of mobility, where past and future don’t compete; they collaborate. It’s a future where your dream car doesn’t have to stay in the past.
The 21st Century Land Grants
After overcoming the economic and political fallout of the 2020 Global Pandemic, the United States government and several enlightened billionaires came together to fund the 21st Century Land Grant program. The goal was to improve land quality in the Western states, alleviate homelessness, raise living standards for those in agriculture, and foster a new and widespread American organic farm movement.
Future Narrative
After overcoming the economic and political fallout of the 2020 Global Pandemic, the United States government and several enlightened billionaires came together to fund the 21st Century Land Grant program. The goal was to improve land quality in the Western states, alleviate homelessness, raise living standards for agricultural workers, and foster a new and widespread American organic farming movement.
The Sheridan family’s 21st Century Land Grant, located just east of Mono Lake, California, was one of the first “drop and prop” housing designs placed on a central piling and “V” shaped foundation to minimize environmental impact.
Before the 21st Century Land Grant Program was adopted in the United States, the post-pandemic politics of fear, divisiveness, and grifting had been exposed. Nothing was being produced, but more money for the wealthiest billionaires. California and neighboring states were the first to see tangible progress. California had the foresight to couple the Land Grant Program with the completion of the State Water Project, which had started in the 1960s and 1970s but was only half the size of the original project plan. The State’s completed water project network included a new “capillary system.” Fed by an extensive network of new reservoirs and waterways, the dense water network ensured deep storage reserves of seasonal rainfall and snow runoff.
Before the system was completed, excess water resources flowed unimpeded into the Pacific Ocean. Within 10 years of the water system’s completion, fundamental differences in land quality across California were visible. Once the arid land was transformed, it began supporting small-scale farming. Coupled with the 21st Century Land Grant initiative, California ensured that the State Water Project would interweave with the land granted to those who would sustainably work the land. Success in other states followed, but on a smaller scale.
The Jensen plot was one of the first minimal structures placed on 21st-century Land Grant land. These modest yet efficient accommodations provide shelter, comfort, and connectivity for the owners who work the surrounding 40-acre plot.
Similar to the G.I. Bill extended to veterans of World War II, citizens could qualify for low-interest loans for 40-acre or 80-acre lots with guaranteed water rights. The only provisions were that grantees would assist with building their homes from certified modular factory-built home kits and agree to tend the land for at least 10 years. What sprang up was a latticework of mutually supporting small farmers like those seen during the great Western migration over two centuries earlier.
Companies producing modern and efficient kit homes that could easily be transported or airdropped to new land grant sites made healthy profits that they reinvested in their businesses as the demand for their “new homestead” housing boomed. New Land Grant Owners (or “New Landers” as they came to be known) and their efficient homes referred to as “Drop and Props” were connected by the timely, widespread availability of affordable 2-4 person Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (EVTOL) craft. This form of transportation drastically reduced transit times on the new frontier. Traveling “as the crow flies” was now possible, and neighbors with hundreds of acres of farmland between them were just minutes away from each other.
The Montreat family's windmills, which they service, provide additional income and enhance the comfort of their 80-acre 21st-century Land Grant location in Christmas Valley, Oregon.
The area around California’s Mono Lake, east of the Sierras, before the New California Water Project additions were completed.
The area around California’s Mono Lake, east of the Sierras, 10 years after the completion of the New California Water Project additions.
With plentiful clean water, crops, renewable energy, and satellite connectivity available, the 21st-century Land Grant arguably had an even more significant impact on the United States than the original land grant programs. While ensuring that plenty of wildlands remained across the United States, this new era of peace and prosperity, which was universally enjoyed, ultimately freed humankind to look to the stars again with renewed vigor for exploration.
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: Assistive Dexterity Devices
Before my recent trip home, I noticed my parents communicated more frequently with me. I thought it was just excitement about my upcoming visit that led to the increased messages. But it turns out they bought each other assistive dexterity devices from Fluid for their 60th anniversary a couple of months ago. So far, they have made a remarkable difference in their day-to-day lives.
Future Narrative
Before my recent trip home, I noticed my parents had been messaging me more often. I assumed the uptick in communication was simply due to their excitement about my upcoming visit. But as it turns out, a thoughtful anniversary gift was behind the change. For their 60th, they had given each other assistive dexterity devices from Fluid, and the impact has been remarkable. The devices have made everyday tasks easier and more manageable, improving both their independence and quality of life. It's been heartening to see how such a simple innovation can bring meaningful change.
Fluid’s Mark IV dexterity assist device has helped millions of people recover dexterity independence and leave specialized input devices behind.
Dad worked on the line at General Motors for 31 years before retiring. While assembly robots did much of the heavy lifting, the work still took its toll on him. For years, he used a special AI-enabled macro keyboard to make his typing more efficient. Thanks to his new Fluid dexterity gloves, Dad can use a conventional keyboard again. He was so impressed that he bought a power-assisted PowerGrip version to wear on his right hand while he does yard work.
Fluid’s PowerGrip dexterity assist glove.
Mom taught in higher education for 25 years. She was constantly researching and writing papers, contributing to her dexterity issues. Her arthritis started about 15 years ago and has always been more pronounced in her left hand. As a trial, she purchased a Fluid left-handed Lace model co-branded by her favorite clothier. It has worked so well that she now has another pair for both hands.
While talking with them and hearing their voice messages is always great, the quick text notes they send are more frequent. I am glad this new generation of assistive dexterity devices has restored their ability to communicate in various ways.
Available in various styles, Fluid's Lace model eliminates tremors, restores user dexterity, and the ability to communicate.
Technology
Nerve impulse sensing and electrically conductive fibers that can contract and expand help stabilize the hands and assist with precise finger placement.
Some assistive dexterity models can significantly increase hand strength, thereby extending mobility independence.
Implications
How might we design assistive devices that blend into one’s life as visually appealing fashion accessories?
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: TRACER Micromobility Companions
I’ve come to love my trusty TRACER companion, Max. He is always there for me, helping me maximize my workdays. Thanks to the TRACER virtual leash system, he is just a few steps away, faithfully following in my footsteps and carrying the heavy loads I am responsible for delivering to their final destination.
Future Narrative
I love my trusty TRACER (Tracking Retail Assistive Cargo Electric Rover) companion, Max. He is always there for me, helping me maximize my workdays. Thanks to the TRACER virtual leash system, Max is just a few steps away, faithfully following in my footsteps while carrying the heavy loads I am responsible for to their destination. My productivity has tripled since I added Max to the mix. Next month, I may purchase the stair-climbing accessory for Max to expand its delivery capabilities even further.
Max reminds me of my Gen 2 TRACER, Miles. Miles kept everything I needed close at hand in high school. Thankfully, my backpack became much lighter. During soccer practice, Miles was great. It was like having your equipment locker right there on the sidelines. Miles kept my stuff safe and my hydration drinks ice cold. Coach Lloyd even asked Miles to jam some tunes to fire us up during practices.
Before Miles and Max, I had my first Gen 1 TRACER, Moose. He was less refined than Miles, but he helped me with my paper route and could even carry me around back then. My Dad and I used to hike and camp with Moose. We stuck to the easy trails, and Moose powered our camp. He even heated our tent on cold nights. I still miss Moose.
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: Autonomous Water Rescue Craft
We finally received the first of five autonomous water rescue craft last month. Since then, three people have been saved from rip tides. These craft use an array of sensors to locate swimmers in distress. Once identified, the craft approach and the two vertical motors up front dip the hinged netted rescue area below swimmers.
Future Narrative
We finally received the first of five autonomous water rescue craft last month. Since then, three people have been saved from rip tides. These crafts use an array of sensors to locate swimmers in distress. Once identified, the craft approaches and the two vertical motors up front lower the hinged, netted rescue area below swimmers. Swimmers are gently lifted above the water and settle securely on the safety netting for transport back to shore. Affectionately referred to as “Swoop and Scoops,” these crafts now provide an ever-present additional safety response along our shoreline.
Some municipalities use autonomous water rescue rafts in concert with larger craft when more than one swimmer is distressed. These smaller craft, designed with a partial submersion front motor, are typically deployed in smoother bodies of water or beyond wave breaks. They can also help patrol larger public beach areas more efficiently.
Technology
Sensors and Detection Systems: Autonomous aquatic rescue vehicles integrate various sensors, including sonar, cameras, and thermal imaging technology. These sensors enable the vessel to detect and locate distressed individuals, even in low-visibility conditions.
Communication Capabilities: The communication systems of these waterborne vehicles enable them to extend radio coverage and establish connections with rescue teams or individuals in need of assistance. They can relay vital information, provide reassurance, and coordinate rescue efforts seamlessly.
Payload and Rescue Mechanisms: Autonomous aquatic rescue vehicles carry essential supplies, including life preservers, first aid kits, and automated defibrillators. They can deliver these to distressed ships close to shore. Some have built-in mechanisms for towing or lifting individuals out of the water.
Efficiency and Speed: These rescue vehicles significantly reduce response times by leveraging sensor and autonomous technology to pre-position in areas presenting the most risk to swimmers or boaters on any given day. They operate swiftly and precisely, enhancing the chances of successful rescue missions.
Adaptability and Versatility: These rescue watercraft are customized for various scenarios, from rescuing individuals stranded at sea to aiding in swift water or flood rescue operations. Their adaptability makes them valuable assets in diverse water-related emergencies.
Implications
These water rescue vehicles feature advanced autonomous navigation systems, enabling them to operate independently in water environments. They can navigate complex waterways, identify obstacles, and reach victims quickly and efficiently. Their vigilance never wanes.
They are constantly deployed and on patrol, reducing the time needed to respond to water rescue events.
Overall, autonomous aquatic rescue vehicle technology represents a game-changing innovation in enhancing water safety and emergency response capabilities.
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: Nanomobility Repairbots
I purchased a new computer last year with Nanobot protection. Yesterday, I heard some faint ticking inside my machine. I turned on the internal monitor, and sure enough, the Nanobots were busy checking connections and cleaning up.
Future Narrative
I purchased a new computer last year with Nanobot protection. Yesterday, I heard some faint ticking inside my machine. I turned on the internal monitor, and sure enough, the Nanobots were busy checking connections and cleaning up. These tiny bots navigate through intricate circuitry and components with unmatched precision. Equipped with advanced sensors and cleaning mechanisms, they will rid my computer system of dust, debris, and even microscopic contaminants that can hinder performance. They do this on an as-needed basis and work autonomously, enhancing the efficiency and extending the overall lifespan of my computer.
Cleaning nanobot has advanced visual sensors and nano vacuum capabilities to keep computer internals clean running efficiently.
With their more robust frame, repair nanobots can repair delicate circuits or transport and replace components as needed.
Nanobot access ports are now standard on many new Yutani computers.
Technology
Nanobot technology features articulated micro-joints and state-change materials, enabling nanomobility.
Tiny capacitors store power drawn from contact with nano-power ports on circuit boards.
Implications
As air quality degrades and energy prices rise, nanobots can play a crucial role in maintaining computer efficiency.
Circuit board design needs to evolve to support the capabilities of nanobots, including the provision of capacitive power ports and modular, easy-access circuit componentry.
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: Autonomous Grocery Module
These autonomous grocery modules always feature the week's best deals. Some keep items cool, while others keep pre-prepared meals warm. I’ve seen them used for special events like concerts, conferences, and pop-up stores. The slide-down side panels keep things in place and at temperature while in transit.
Future Narrative
These autonomous grocery modules always feature the week's best deals. Some keep items cool, while others keep pre-prepared meals warm. I’ve seen them used for special events, such as concerts, conferences, and pop-up stores. The slide-down side panels keep items in place and at the correct temperature while in transit. When placed outdoors, the slide-out solar panels up top keep things shaded while topping off the battery pack. Two fit side by side in a delivery van and are motorized, making ramp loading a breeze.
Technology
Motorized, battery-powered grocery module with supplementary solar panel charging.
Recycled automotive battery packs in the base move the module and cool or warm products.
Implications
Stores can utilize fleets of autonomous grocery modules located in the back of stores to automate grocery stocking. These modules benefit from a direct connection from the back-of-store warehouses to delivery vehicles and onward to customer sites with maximum efficiency.
Delivery services providing warm, cool, and bulk items can better serve pop-up stores and venues.
Modular flexibility enables stores to maintain high stock levels of high-volume products.
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: Next-Gen Jalopies
Improving the performance of that first car has been a time-honored tradition amongst auto enthusiasts. What does the future hold for weekend garage projects as we move into the new era of electric-powered automobility? Will the focus be on power, efficiency, torque, range extension, or perhaps all of the above? And with the right to repair access disputed by some electric vehicle manufacturers, will this even be possible? What does safe electric vehicle modification look like in the 21st century?
Future Narrative
It finally happened. I got my first car! Working with Dad on it last Saturday was great. We audited all the electronics and created an upgrade plan together. That was half the fun. The range is significantly lower now, considering this vehicle is a 2021 model with 274,000 miles on the odometer. Mechanically, it is sound. The body is in great shape and has a wrap on it, so the paint looks amazing. Still, we’ve got to do something about the range. While we are at it, I would love to boost the power.
Deak and Dan Jardigan are among a growing number of families worldwide who are learning how to maintain and modify electric vehicles at home safely.
The prior owner had planned to donate the battery pack to the Second Life Auxiliary Battery (SLAB) program, repurposing it as a home energy backup battery. Dad and I have some other ideas. I am looking forward to this project. It makes the things I learned in my electronics class much more relevant and tangible.
In March, we installed a Stage 1 Tesla Performance Enhancement Pack (PEP Pack), which restored the vehicle's original range.
We added the FLUX Performance Enhancement Pack (Grey Market PEP Pack) in August, dramatically enhancing acceleration.
A Tesla FLUX (Functional Line Upgrade-X) vehicle modification safety interface module is shown. This product has proven to be a gateway for next-generation electric vehicle modifiers.
Implications
Improving the performance of that first car has been a time-honored tradition amongst auto enthusiasts. What does the future hold for weekend garage projects as we move into the new era of electric-powered automobility? Will the focus be on power, efficiency, torque, range extension, or perhaps all of the above? And with the right to repair access disputed by some electric vehicle manufacturers, will this even be possible? What does safe electric vehicle modification look like in the 21st century? What do OEM and third-party aftermarkets for electric vehicles look like? Will it be a spin-off SEMA community or be more like a new “home-brew” type of group from the early days when Jobs and Wozniak worked together?
Related Links
www.unpluggedperformance.com/
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: Engineered Forests of the Future
I suppose they have a beauty of their own, but it has taken a while to get used to them. These square-column trees were introduced in Scandinavia about a decade ago to maximize sustainable forest material output. Their shape has been bioengineered to maximize transport efficiency to mills and reduce the milling needed to produce lumber products.
Future Narrative
I suppose they have a beauty all their own, but it has taken a while to get used to them. These square and rectangular-column trees were introduced in Sweden about a decade ago to maximize sustainable forest output. Their shape has been bioengineered to maximize transport efficiency and reduce the milling needed to produce core hardwood lumber products. While a quarantine on squared trees is in effect, and their use is currently limited to Sweden, Finland, and Norway, one wonders if that will last.
Columnar trees increase the volume of usable hardwood forest material
A mixed load of squared and rectangular trees maximizes the loadout of autonomous logging rigs.
Autonomous logging rig scans products for flaws and then begins the wood curing process while en route to mill.
Technology
While trees vary dramatically from fruits, selective seeding of a few engineered forests has resulted in the growth of square and rectangular columnar trees. Favored by today’s largest furniture manufacturers, the new bioengineered Squared Timber™ line of lumber products increases the usable hardwood of a log by as much as twenty-seven percent.
Implications
How far are we prepared to go to optimize the natural world around us for our needs, and what could the unintended consequences of such actions be?
Related Concepts and Research
Here's what fruits and vegetables looked like before we domesticated them
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: ThinLane Autonomous People Movers
Our visit to Austin last weekend was great. There was so much to do, and it was easy to get around. The ThinLane electric people movers can accommodate up to four people in the bike lanes that run all over the city. We downloaded the app and used them all weekend to get around town.
Future Narrative
Our visit to Austin last weekend was great. There was so much to do, and it was easy to get around. The autonomous ThinLane electric people movers can accommodate up to four people in the bike lanes that run all over the city. We downloaded the app and used it throughout the weekend to navigate around town. The city has established a micromobility strategy and policies. A few repurposed parking spaces in front of downtown businesses now serve as ThinLane loading and unloading zones. This keeps bicyclists happy as the ThinLane vehicles either keep pace or are out of the way. There are fewer cars downtown, and the streets seem smoother, too.
Technology
Autonomous, narrow, electric vehicles provide easy-on/easy-off mobility utilizing dedicated bike lanes. Occupants are safely transported up to 20 miles per hour and use an app to set pick-up and drop-off locations and make payments.
Implications
Many areas within a city require moving people in core areas at consistent but lower speeds or shifting them along a loop. These narrow electric vehicles provide significant bandwidth to the overall mobility system and use existing infrastructure.
Cities' policymakers must collaborate with businesses to understand the optimal flow of pedestrian traffic in dense areas.
Policies that allow a diverse micro-mobility ecosystem to thrive have to be adopted.
How can utilization fees offset some or most infrastructure costs associated with micromobility solutions?
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.
Futureproof: Autonomous Undersea Resource Explorer
Thanks to the new fleet of autonomous undersea resource explorers, we’ve found ten times more lithium and other rare minerals for use in electric vehicles. We’ve analyzed far more ocean floor per week than we ever could using the old system.
Future Narrative
Thanks to our new fleet of autonomous undersea resource explorers, we’ve found ten times more lithium and other rare minerals for use in electric vehicles. We’ve analyzed far more of the ocean floor per week than we ever could using the old system. It is impressive how well the 20 units follow a detailed grid search pattern. At this rate, we will have paid for the entire system within two years and helped migrate away from fossil fuel-burning engines.
Technology
Autonomous grid-following technology is made possible by consumer-grade ultra-low frequency GPS broadcasting.
Solid aluminum fuel combines with filtered seawater to produce hydrogen for the system’s fuel cell.
Implications
New fuels can provide remote, autonomous systems with long-lasting power, ensuring reliable operation.
Largely unexplored seabeds are expected to yield more precious metals and minerals, which are needed to meet the demands of new industries in the coming decades.
Early Signals of Possibility
Learn more about aluminum as a possible fuel cell fuel via this MIT news article.
Wired article on the potential and dangers of deep-sea mining. www.wired.com/story/deep-sea-mining-electric-vehicle-battery/
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.