Electrical Ram vans could function deployable rear step that doubles as a diffuser

• Stellantis is growing inventive aerodynamic options for electrical vans
• A deployable rear diffuser may also turn out to be a rear mattress step
• This could make lively aero dynamics additionally a purposeful function whereas parked

Stellantis could also be planning a brand new know-how for its future electrical pickup vans that might enhance each aerodynamic effectivity and practicality.

The automaker’s U.S. arm filed a patent utility for a deployable rear step that doubles as an lively diffuser. The applying, for a “car rear step and diffuser system,” was filed in late 2023 and printed on July 4.

The patent is particularly for automobiles with body-on-frame building, like these marketed by Stellantis’ Ram model. The patent additionally contains drawings that present a pickup truck’s rear tailgate.

Drawing from Stellantis patent for car rear step and diffuser system

The design bears a resemblance to the tailgate on Ram’s 1500 Revolution BEV idea proven in the course of the 2023 CES shopper know-how commerce present. It is sensible the system is for an electrical truck, since aerodynamic effectivity is so very important for vary.

The concept of an lively diffuser is not new, although there hasn’t been one which doubles as a step. Each Honda and Porsche have filed patent purposes for lively diffusers, and fellow Stellantis model Opel confirmed an electrical crossover idea with one simply final yr.

When deployed, the diffuser would generate an upward circulation of air from beneath the car, balancing the downward circulation of air spilling off the highest and serving to to extend downforce in addition to cut back drag. In contrast to a traditional diffuser, it could be stowed when not wanted, so automobiles would not have appendages protruding previous their rear bumpers.

Though the 1500 Revolution BEV idea is not sure for manufacturing, it serves as a preview of potential design concepts for future Ram electrical vans. One other function from the idea that will make manufacturing are its third-row leap seats. A separate patent utility for the foldable seats additionally surfaced not too long ago.