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Ford patent outlines multi-use front tailgate with fold-down television space, report says

Electrek reports that a new patent for an electrified vehicle shows a fold-out front trunk designed for work or entertainment.

The short version

  • Ford has filed a patent detailing a multi-use front tailgate for an electrified vehicle, according to Electrek.[Electrek]
  • The design includes a fold-out work surface, swappable hood panels, and space for a fold-down television.[Electrek]
  • Electrek suggests the patent likely applies to Ford's upcoming Fathom electric truck, which is reportedly targeted to start under $30,000.[Electrek]
  • Whether the vehicle will feature dedicated storage for swappable surfaces or include this design in final production remains unconfirmed.[Electrek]

Key facts

  • Ford filed USPTO patent number 12,741,514, titled 'Vehicle cargo space access providing method', describing a multi-use front tailgate for an electrified vehicle.[Electrek]
  • The patent illustrates a fold-out front trunk area that creates a flat work surface and accommodates a television that folds down when closed.[Electrek]
  • Ford has been developing its Fathom electric truck using a dedicated skunkworks development center to innovate manufacturing.[Electrek]
  • Previous reporting indicated the Fathom is planned to start under $30,000 with a first-year sales goal of 100,000 units.[Electrek]

What remains uncertain

  • It is unknown whether the patented front tailgate design will be integrated into the production version of the Fathom electric truck.[Electrek]
  • It remains uncertain whether the vehicle will include a dedicated storage compartment for the swappable hood surfaces mentioned in the patent.[Electrek]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.