Dodge granted patent for in-bed ramp system

[kscarbel2]

Autoblog / July 14, 2015

Most of the patent filings we report on these days are of a pretty high-tech nature: everything from "humanized" navigation systems to 11-speed transmissions. But cool innovations can be lower-tech and clever, too. At least that's our feeling after seeing some proposed plans from Dodge (aka. Ram).

Fiat Chrysler Automobile (FCA) has filed a patent for a system of built-in ramps recessed inside of a pickup truck bed.

While stowable ramps aren't new – Ford offers a similar system for the F-150 ­– the level of integration shown in these diagrams seems to be.

Drawings show ramps that run on channels in the bed and tailgate, hinged at the end of the extended gate for a gentle upslope into the cargo area.

What's more, the system seems changeable, with two ramps set wide or narrow, or just one centrally mounted. Just the thing for switching from motorcycle-loading season to snowmobile-loading season.

A granted patent doesn't always lead to a product brought to market, of course. Issues with cost, durability, and demand all have a lot to say about what makes it from design to showroom. Still, we think the proposed RamRamp (feel free to use that, FCA) shows a ton of promise.

Related photographs - http://www.autoblog.com/2015/07/14/ram-truck-patent-in-bed-ramp-system/#slide-3549063

[gearhead204]

every orchard fieldman will be in line looking for this option! as they all pack 4 wheelers with them and load and unload multiple times a day. A built in secure system would be nice as you wouldnt have to worry as much if some one was going to steal your ramps, or if they will slip off the tailgate while in use.