Sliding doors are a common feature in Korean homes. Thus, it is no surprise that Hyundai and Kia have created a sliding tailgate for cars. According to NewNissanZ.com, the two Korean automakers have filed a patent for this new technology with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Benefits Include Lower Height And Better Clearance
The patent application (0220048581) is for a sliding tailgate affixed to the rear of a vehicle. The door can slide up on rails that run along the roof. One benefit is that the door does not jut out above the roofline when open. That makes it easier to open the door in garages with low ceilings. Moreover, the person opening the door does not need to step back when the door swings open.
Tailgates are a fixture on all SUVs and trucks, which are increasing in popularity. Thus, it behooves automakers to find new innovations for the tailgate. General Motors touts their multi-flex tailgates in ads for Chevrolet and GMC trucks. Hyundai and Kia have now found a new way to make the tailgates on their vehicles stand out from the competition.