Ram’s parent company, Stellantis, is looking to innovate the traditional bed step on pickup trucks by incorporating it into an active aerodynamic feature. The company has filed a patent application for a deployable rear step that also serves as an active diffuser. This new technology aims to not only improve efficiency but also enable easier access to the bed of the truck.
### The Combination of Efficiency and Accessibility
The idea of an active diffuser isn’t entirely new, with concepts like the Ram 1500 Revolution BEV and Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX showcasing similar features. However, the integration of a step that doubles as a diffuser is a novel concept that could potentially revolutionize the design of future electric pickup trucks. By combining these two functionalities into a single system, Ram is paving the way for enhanced performance and convenience.
### How the Technology Works
The patent describes the bottom surface of the step as being designed to act as a diffuser, while the top surface serves as a flat step. When not in use, the step/diffuser can be stowed away to prevent protrusions from the rear bumper of the vehicle at lower speeds. This innovative design ensures that the functionality of the step is seamlessly integrated into the aerodynamics of the truck, optimizing both efficiency and practicality.
### Potential Benefits for Electric Vehicles
Rear diffusers are commonly used on performance vehicles to increase downforce and reduce drag from turbulent air flow. By incorporating this technology into electric pickup trucks, Ram could potentially boost the range of their future models. With electric vehicles becoming increasingly popular, features like the deployable diffuser/step could play a crucial role in enhancing the overall performance and efficiency of these trucks.
### Application in Future Ram Models
The patent specifies that the deployable diffuser/step system is intended for vehicles with body-on-frame construction, such as Ram’s pickups. The design is showcased in illustrations of a pickup truck’s rear tailgate, resembling the design of the Ram 1500 Revolution BEV concept. While the concept itself may not go into production, it provides a glimpse into the potential design direction for upcoming Ram electric trucks, hinting at the possibility of seeing the active diffuser/step combination in future models.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, Stellantis’ innovative patent for a deployable rear step that doubles as an active diffuser represents a significant step forward in the evolution of electric pickup trucks. By combining efficiency with accessibility, Ram is setting the stage for a new era of design and functionality in the automotive industry. With the potential to enhance performance, range, and overall user experience, this technology could not only benefit Ram’s future electric models but also pave the way for advancements in electric vehicle design as a whole. As the automotive landscape continues to shift towards sustainability and innovation, initiatives like the deployable diffuser/step system highlight the industry’s commitment to pushing boundaries and meeting the evolving needs of consumers.