Stellantis patented a deployable diffuser that doubles as a mattress step
The diffuser would help effectivity whereas additionally enabling simpler mattress entry
Energetic aero and mattress steps aren’t new, however combining the 2 could be a primary
Ram could also be seeking to flip the standard mattress step into an energetic aerodynamic characteristic that might assist enhance vary of its future electrical pickup vehicles.
Ram’s dad or mum firm, Stellantis, has filed a patent utility for a deployable rear step that doubles as an energetic diffuser. The applying, which was filed with the USA Patent and Trademark Workplace final December and revealed on July 4, describes the characteristic as a “automobile rear step and diffuser system.”
Drawing from Stellantis patent for automobile rear step and diffuser system
The concept of an energetic diffuser is not new. Ram confirmed one on its 1500 Revolution BEV idea unveiled throughout 2023 CES. Mercedes-Benz additionally had one on 2022’s Imaginative and prescient EQXX idea. Nonetheless, an energetic diffuser that doubles as a step hasn’t reached manufacturing simply but.
Based on the patent, the underside floor of the step could be formed to behave as a diffuser, whereas the highest could be a flat floor that serves as a step. In contrast to a standard diffuser, it could be stowed when not wanted, like at decrease speeds, so autos would not have appendages protruding previous their rear bumpers.
Ram 1500 Revolution BEV idea
Rear diffusers are sometimes used on efficiency autos as a method to generate extra downforce and in consequence extra grip, however there’s additionally an effectivity acquire as drag from turbulent air movement is decreased—one thing that might assist enhance an EV’s vary.
The patent describes the characteristic as getting used on autos with body-on-frame development, like Ram’s pickups, together with the 2025 Ram 1500 REV. The patent additionally consists of drawings that present a pickup truck’s rear tailgate.
Ram 1500 REV
The design is paying homage to the tailgate on Ram’s 1500 Revolution BEV idea. Whereas that idea is not certain for manufacturing, it serves as a preview of potential design concepts for future Ram electrical vehicles, which means we might even see one thing just like the energetic diffuser and step mixture in manufacturing sooner or later.