Deployable rear step with integrated diffuser can improve efficiency for electric trucks
- Stellantis has patented a deployable diffuser that functions as a bed step.
- The diffuser will help effectively while also making bed access easier.
- Active aerodynamic steps and beds aren’t new, but combining the two would be a first.
Ram may be looking to turn the humble bed into a Active aerodynamics That could help increase the range of future electric pickup trucks.
Ram’s parent company, Stellantis, has filed a patent application for a deployable rear step that functions as an active diffuser. The patent application, filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office last December and published on July 4, describes the feature as “Side steps and rear diffuser.”
Drawing from Stellantis patent for side steps and rear diffuser
The idea of an active diffuser is not new. Ram presented an idea on 1500 Revolution BEV Concept announced at CES 2023. Mercedes-Benz also has one coming in 2022. Vision EQXX ConceptHowever, the active diffuser that functions as a step has not yet been put into production.
According to the patent, the lower surface of the step would be shaped to act as a diffuser, while the upper part would be a flat surface that would act as a step. Unlike a conventional diffuser, it would be tucked away when not needed, such as at lower speeds, so the car would not have an extra protrusion beyond the rear bumper.
Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept
Rear diffusers are commonly used on high performance cars as a way to create more downforce and thus increase traction, but there is also a increase efficiency as the drag from turbulent airflow is reduced—which could help increase the EV’s operating range.
The patent describes this feature being used on vehicles with body-on-frame construction, such as Ram pickup trucks, including Ram 2025 1500 REVThe patent also includes drawings showing the pickup truck’s rear doors.
Ram 1500 REVISION
The design is reminiscent of the tailgate on the Ram 1500 Revolution BEV concept. While that concept never made it to production, it does serve as a preview of potential design ideas for future Ram electric trucks, meaning we could see something like the active diffuser and step combination in production one day.
