Future Rivians might need detachable roofs

Rivian is seeking to patent a detachable roof system for its EVs.

A patent software printed by the USA Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) on Might 30, after being filed by Rivian Nov. 30, 2022, offers with a “sliding latch mechanism” for detachable roof panels.

Rivian detachable roof patent picture

Because the title signifies, latches would slide from a closed to an open place to detach the roof panels, with Rivian suggesting that they might be pushed by an actuator. This extra automated system would make eradicating roof panels simpler than present {hardware}, Rivian claims.

As soon as eliminated, the roof panels might be saved in a chosen compartment, in keeping with the applying, which additionally mentions a wind deflector for use throughout open-air driving.

Rivian detachable roof patent picture

Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler house owners know the thrill of driving with no roof, whereas the GMC Hummer EV incorporates a T-top association with a number of detachable panels that may be saved within the electrical truck’s entrance trunk. In any other case, EV house owners have few choices relating to roofless driving. The 2025 Maserati GranCabrio Folgore will possible be the one electrical convertible accessible within the U.S. when it arrives within the fourth quarter.

It is unclear the place detachable roofs will match into Rivian’s near-future product plans, although. The automaker’s subsequent automobile would be the R2 electrical SUV, on account of arrive in 2026. Rivian confirmed it earlier this 12 months with a hard and fast roof, and, given the R2’s positioning as a extra mainstream mannequin, that appears unlikely to alter. Rivian has additionally proven the R3 and R3X electrical scorching hatches, but additionally with out detachable roofs.