Ford’s Multifunctional Midgate Concept Patent Designed to Compete with Chevy

Ford’s F-150 and Chevy’s Silverado is one of the auto industry’s biggest rivalries. The two pickup trucks have been going at it for decades, and with technology constantly evolving, it doesn’t appear that they will be slowing down anytime soon. More so now with the dawn of the all-electric F-150 Lightning and the impending debut of the Silverado EV in Spring 2023.

As many differences there are between the two trucks, one of the most obvious is that Chevy’s truck has a midgate in the cab’s rear. Not to be outdone, Ford has issued a patent for some midgate concepts that prospective customers may see in some future pickups.

Titled “PIVOTABLE CAB BACK ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE AND CAB BACK ASSEMBLY PIVOTING METHOD,” Ford’s midgate concept aims to not just expand the length of the truck’s bed, but also serve as a support area for camping, as well as a work surface.

It is unknown whether this midgate concept would apply to EV and/or ICE trucks, but the right business decision would include them both to satisfy both customer bases. Of course, sometimes patents are issued solely with the intent to protect an idea, rather than produce it. Whether or not this new midgate will 100% appear in some of Ford’s future inventory is unknown, but certainly a reason for Chevrolet to keep a watchful eye on its rival.