Rivian is trying to patent a detachable roof system for its EVs.
A patent utility revealed by the USA Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) on Could 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 could possibly 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 could possibly be saved in a delegated compartment, in line 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 homeowners know the fun of driving and not using a 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 homeowners 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 car would be the R2 electrical SUV, resulting from 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.
