Ford Patents New Multiuse Tailgate

Any automaker in the truck business had one heck of a year (2021); just ask the best automaker of the year. The Ford F Series continues to dominate the pickup segment from year to year. Yet, there is one burning question rival automakers need to ask themselves. How can we set ourselves apart?  

Just recently, Chevrolet and Ram redesigned their trucks rear to support a more practical use for a plethora of applications. Although Chevrolet and Ram seemed to answer the call of functionality, the Ford F-150 failed to deliver. Previously, Ford approached the tailgate of the F-150’s work surface with a built-in measuring tape and an area to stow tools. However, while others assumed the Blue Oval slacked off on a practical rear, new patent filings suggest otherwise. 

Ford’s patent filings through the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) demonstrate that any chance Chevy or Ram had of standing out is no longer. In August 2020, rumors circulated that Ford was crafting a multifunctional tailgate. The Blue Oval looked to Ram and Chevrolet for inspiration, and the aftermath is a new triple-split design (AKA the triple-threat).  

The new triple-split design hasn’t received a name just yet, but the display is so clever it is enough to leave the automotive competitors questioning why didn’t they think of it first. The middle section functions as a side-hinged swing door, promoting easy access to the flatbed of the pickup.  

Much like the Ram 1500’s multifunction tailgate, its swing door is accessible through either side of the tailgate. However, Ford took it up a notch and provided a centralized solution for easy access to every section of the load bin. 

Then there’s the Chevy MultiFlex Tailgate, which utilizes the top half of the tailgate to fold down and reveal an open step. Ford added some pepper to the old Man Step with a load sill behind the tailgate, which folds outwards and reveals a step towards the tailgate. Since Ford’s new step is in a central position away from the tailgate doohickey, the step is accessible when the tailgate is closed and even when the swing door is open. 

Most importantly, the patent demonstrates that the new tailgate can operate electronically. Whether it’s through a dash-mounted button or key fob, the operation of the tailgate or central swing door doesn’t require any muscle. 

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