Automotive
Hyundai and Kia patent filing outlines magnetic hard top, report says
Car and Driver reports that Hyundai and Kia’s modular hard-top patent application describes magnets that align and hold panels during assembly and removal, with latches securing the roof.
The short version
- Car and Driver reports that Hyundai and Kia filed U.S. patent application 19/071,347 for a modular vehicle hard top.[Car and Driver]
- The reported design uses magnets to position and hold panels while fasteners are secured, including interior latches for the roof.[Car and Driver]
- According to Car and Driver, the application allows different combinations of magnets and latches, so a production design could use different component counts.[Car and Driver]
Key facts
- Car and Driver identifies Hyundai and Kia’s filing as U.S. patent application 19/071,347, titled Modular Canopy Assembly System.[Car and Driver]
- According to Car and Driver, the design comprises two side panels, a rear panel and a roof panel.[Car and Driver]
- Car and Driver describes an example assembly sequence using magnets to hold panels while plastic nuts and interior latches are secured.[Car and Driver]
What remains uncertain
- Car and Driver reports that the application permits varying combinations of magnets and latches; a production design could have more or fewer of either.[Car and Driver]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Hyundai’s Solution to Awkward Hard-Top Assembly? MagnetsCar and Driver