Rivian is engaged on a brand new system of clamps to safe cargo within the beds of pickup vans.
In a patent software filed with america Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) in early 2023, however solely revealed by the company on Might 30, Rivian discusses bed-mounted decking with pressure-operated latches. Drive utilized to the latches causes them to open or shut, securing cargo to the decking.
The applying goes on to debate cargo containers that may very well be lashed to the mattress utilizing this clamping system. The containers would be capable to open on two sides, offering additional flexibility for accessing objects as soon as the containers are stowed within the cargo mattress.
It additionally creates extra potentialities for equipment—and thus extra potential income from prospects. Simply because the automaker presents a camp kitchen that slots into the R1T pickup truck’s Gear Tunnel, it may provide specifically designed containers that work with its in-bed clamps and decking. In the identical vein, one other latest patent submitting from the automaker reveals a deployable roof-top cover.
Patent picture of Rivian bed-mounted decking and cargo containers
That is additionally simply certainly one of a number of latest Rivian patent filings regarding cargo administration. Current patent searches have additionally uncovered a mattress rack system and a powered cargo bay divider. None of those options are assured to achieve manufacturing, however Rivian is clearly leaving no stone unturned in the case of bettering the performance of its automobiles.
Rivian additionally has some new automobiles within the pipeline, beginning with the R2 SUV due in 2026. Smaller R3 and R3X hatchbacks will observe the R2 at some unspecified future date, and a trademark submitting signifies Rivian can be contemplating efficiency variations of the its present R1-platform automobiles.