Chinese techie saved Rs 12 lakh by living in EV for 4 years despite owning a home: 'It gives me freedom'

In 2021, the techie bought an electric car and discovered a surprising perk: the backseat comfortably accommodated a mattress. (Representational image: Unsplash)

A 41-year-old Chinese programmer has raised eyebrows and sparked a discussion online after he revealed that he has been living out of his electric vehicle for the past four years, despite owning a comfortable four-storey house in his hometown. Zhang Yunlai said that his current lifestyle has saved him around Rs 12 lakh and allowed him a freedom that he loves, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

Six years ago, Zhang used to work remotely from his spacious home and earn about Rs 1 lakh a month. Then, he took up a new job with a much higher salary and had to move cities. He took up a flat on rent for 2,500 yuan (about Rs 29,000), but soon a simple camping trip in a local park ignited an unexpected desire for a more nomadic existence.

In 2021, the techie bought an electric car and discovered a surprising perk: the backseat comfortably accommodated a mattress. This revelation sparked a radical shift in his living situation. Since then, he has been sleeping in his car on weekdays.

“An electric car lets you use air conditioning and fit a mattress inside, so sleeping there actually feels pretty comfortable,” Zhang told the publication.

His weekday routine now revolves around his workplace: meals at the company cafeteria after hours, showers at the gym, and nightly recharges at a local charging station. His local park also has “five-star” public toilets where he can wash up. At the end of the day, Zhang parks his vehicle at a tranquil spot in a park, folds down the back seats, lays out his mattress, and sleeps.

He takes his laundry home on the weekend.

Zhang also revealed that by adopting such a lifestyle, his average daily expenses amount to around 100 yuan (about Rs 1,100). But he insists that he chooses to live in the car because he enjoys the lifestyle, feeling free and comfortable, and not due to financial reasons.

"I do not have much financial pressure. Even if someone offered me free rent, I would not move. The park environment is far better than a typical flat, and it gives me freedom," he told SCMP. He estimates that his unique choice has saved him approximately 100,000 yuan (about Rs 12 lakh) over the past three years.