Ford Improves On Tesla Cybertruck Design With Adaptive Tonneau Cover

Ford Improves On Tesla Cybertruck Design With Adaptive Tonneau Cover

In terms of aerodynamic efficiency, there has never been any question that this is the ideal shape for the back of a pickup.

Ford has been developing so many truck-related patents of late that we don’t blame anyone for not keeping up, but this is one that we think will stick in your memory: a tonneau cover shaped like that of the Tesla Cybertruck with some big improvements over the stainless wedge. We discovered the patent at the United States Patent and Trademark Office after it was published there last week, but the application to protect the Blue Oval’s specific design was made more than six months ago.

We’re sure some Tesla fanatics will be quick to say that this is yet another example of a mainstream automaker following Tesla’s lead, but this shape has always been the most aerodynamically efficient. Still, there’s no denying the resemblance, so what makes this one special?

While the Cybertruck’s styling certainly lends itself to a sharply inclined tonneau cover, the aesthetics of arguably every other vehicle on the market do not, and this is why aerodynamic canopies or bed covers have not taken off in popularity.

To get around the problem (and ultimately maximize aerodynamic efficiency), Ford’s design retracts both the tonneau cover and the tonneau cover’s rail supports, creating a clean look when the tonneau cover is stowed. In addition, the supports include fins to further enhance slipperiness and aesthetics when the tonneau cover is deployed.

Another thing that sets this design apart from that of the Cybertruck – or pretty much any tonneau cover – is that it features an access window for stowing cargo easily/carrying taller items. Naturally, the tailgate opens independently, but there’s yet another trick this design employs, and it’s the best one so far.

While some covers are flat and the Cybertruck’s is angled, Ford’s can be either. Moreover, when the vehicle reaches or exceeds a threshold speed – 10 mph, for example – the angular cover and the aerodynamic diffuser between the truck’s roof and the top of the tonneau could be automatically deployed. Compressible seals would be fitted to keep water and dirt out as the cover changes orientation and once locked into place. When the F-150 Lightning (or whatever truck this is for) slows below the threshold speed, the tonneau cover returns to the flat position, retaining its lock between the bed and the outside air.

Now that Ford has its own wind tunnel, we expect loads more aero improvements, and once the partnership with the Red Bull F1 team starts paying off, even more efficiencies will be gleaned. We can’t wait to see what makes production first.