- Stellantis is growing inventive aerodynamic options for electrical vehicles
- A deployable rear diffuser can even turn out to be a rear mattress step
- This may make energetic aero dynamics additionally a useful function whereas parked
Stellantis could also be planning a brand new expertise for its future electrical pickup vehicles that will enhance each aerodynamic effectivity and practicality.
The automaker’s U.S. arm filed a patent software for a deployable rear step that doubles as an energetic diffuser. The appliance, for a “automobile rear step and diffuser system,” was filed in late 2023 and revealed on July 4.
The patent is particularly for autos with body-on-frame development, like these marketed by Stellantis’ Ram model. The patent additionally consists of drawings that present a pickup truck’s rear tailgate.
Drawing from Stellantis patent for automobile 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 expertise commerce present. It is sensible the system is for an electrical truck, since aerodynamic effectivity is so important for vary.
The thought of an energetic diffuser is not new, although there hasn’t been one which doubles as a step. Each Honda and Porsche have filed patent functions for energetic 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 automobile, 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 standard diffuser, it will be stowed when not wanted, so autos 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 vehicles. One other function from the idea that will make manufacturing are its third-row leap seats. A separate patent software for the foldable seats additionally surfaced lately.
