Rivian, a company known for its innovative electric vehicles, is now considering an addition to the R1T pickup truck that might appeal to the hands-on workforce. The carmaker is proposing a tailgate that doubles as a workbench, as revealed in a recent patent filing.
A document submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in 2022, which became publicly accessible on April 4, explains Rivian’s design for a tailgate that could support various tools and hardware, potentially increasing the pickup’s functionality as a work vehicle.
This versatile tailgate would allow for the attachment of several work-related fixtures such as support arms, clamps, vises, and fasteners. Many of these components might be built directly into the structure of the tailgate, able to be deployed when necessary, while others could be added as needed through the use of tabs.
Accompanying illustrations in the patent filing depict a pickup truck, but Rivian signals that this inventive workbench feature could extend beyond the realm of pickup trucks. The concept could also be incorporated with the R1T’s Gear Tunnel doors located behind the vehicle’s cab or adapted for use on an SUV tailgate, as seen in the Rivian R1S which features a lower section comparable to a traditional pickup truck tailgate.
Innovative Rivian Tailgate Workbench Patent Illustration
Striving to boost pickups’ versatility, Rivian has submitted several patents that cater to increased utility. These include a bed rack system, a drop-down storage tray, and a multi-functional gooseneck-hinge tailgate. However, patented concepts do not always lead to actual production, and it is currently uncertain whether these features will be offered in a forthcoming version of the R1T or a different model.
While the R1T currently captures attention with its potential new features, Rivian has also introduced the more affordable R2 series with the R2S SUV. Although there’s no confirmation of an R2T pickup yet, Rivian’s timeline allows room for its announcement, with R2S production set to commence in 2026.
FAQ Section
- Q: What is the new feature Rivian is considering for the R1T?
- A: Rivian is considering a patent for an integrated workbench within the tailgate of the R1T, which could support tools such as extendable arms, clamps, vises, and fasteners.
- Q: Will the tailgate workbench feature be available only for the R1T pickup truck?
- A: No, Rivian suggests this feature could be adapted to different areas, including the Gear Tunnel doors of the R1T, as well as the tailgate of an SUV like the Rivian R1S.
- Q: Are there other utility-focused features Rivian has patented?
- A: Yes, Rivian has patented other features such as a bed rack system, a drop-down storage tray, and a 180-degree swinging gooseneck-hinge tailgate.
- Q: When is Rivian planning to start production of the R2 series?
- A: Rivian intends to start production of the R2 series, specifically the R2S SUV, in 2026.
Conclusion
Rivian’s ongoing exploration of practical features is testament to their commitment to innovation within the electric vehicle industry. The patent for a tailgate with a built-in workbench is a potential game-changer, offering mobile utility solutions that could benefit professionals across various trades. While it remains uncertain which, if any, of these ideas will transition from concept to reality, Rivian’s attempts to creative versatile and utilitarian vehicles continue to generate excitement and anticipation for future models.
