- Stellantis patented a deployable diffuser that doubles as a bed step
- The diffuser would aid efficiency while also enable easier bed access
- Energetic aero and bed steps aren’t latest, but combining the 2 could be a primary
Ram could also be seeking to turn the standard bed step into an lively aerodynamic feature that might help boost range of its future electric pickup trucks.
Ram’s parent company, Stellantis, has filed a patent application for a deployable rear step that doubles as an lively diffuser. The appliance, which was filed with the USA Patent and Trademark Office last December and published on July 4, describes the feature as a “vehicle rear step and diffuser system.”
Drawing from Stellantis patent for vehicle rear step and diffuser system
The concept of an lively diffuser is not latest. Ram showed one on its 1500 Revolution BEV concept unveiled during 2023 CES. Mercedes-Benz also had one on 2022’s Vision EQXX concept. Nevertheless, an lively diffuser that doubles as a step hasn’t reached production just yet.
In accordance with the patent, the underside surface of the step could be shaped to act as a diffuser, while the highest could be a flat surface that serves as a step. Unlike a standard diffuser, it might be stowed when not needed, like at lower speeds, so vehicles would not have appendages protruding past their rear bumpers.
Ram 1500 Revolution BEV concept
Rear diffusers are typically used on performance vehicles as a strategy to generate more downforce and consequently more grip, but there’s also an efficiency gain as drag from turbulent air flow is reduced—something that might help boost an EV’s range.
The patent describes the feature as getting used on vehicles with body-on-frame construction, like Ram’s pickups, including the 2025 Ram 1500 REV. The patent also includes drawings that show a pickup truck’s rear tailgate.
Ram 1500 REV
The design is paying homage to the tailgate on Ram’s 1500 Revolution BEV concept. While that idea is not sure for production, it serves as a preview of potential design ideas for future Ram electric trucks, meaning we might even see something just like the lively diffuser and step combination in production in the future.
This Article First Appeared At www.greencarreports.com
