Ford Motor Company has filed a patent for modular running boards, Ford Authority has learned.
The patent was filed on January 13th, 2020, published on July 21st, 2022, and assigned serial number 0227297.
The Ford Authority Take
Back in April, a Ford patent was filed for a potential Ford Bronco integrated sand ladder, which could serve multiple purposes. Those include using the sand ladders as running boards, hood vents, grille inserts, bumper inserts, tailgate inserts, and even door beams. Now, this new Ford patent aims to take that idea a bit further by introducing an idea for modular running boards that can be used in a variety of ways.
This patent mentions a variety of features that could be added to this set of running boards, including non-slip material, different types of decorative trim, and even lighting. It’s a big step up for the humble running board, which has been used for many years to help folks get in and out of taller riding vehicles, though some newer units can be removed and reinstalled when desired.
These special running boards contain what Ford calls “projections and cavities” that allow for the modular installation of various accessories, which would presumably make them quite useful – particularly so when compared to regular old stationary running boards. Brackets would be used to attach these pieces, which could also be easily replaced if they become damaged.
This idea is certainly interesting, and depicts a feature that probably should already exist. After all, in a world where folks are more keen to customize their new vehicles than ever before, why not extend that same courtesy to the humble running board?
We’ll have more on this and all Ford patents soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for the latest Ford trademark news, Ford business news, and comprehensive Ford news coverage.
Comment
Hi folks
A running board on a Maverick truck is not a great idea. The vehicle is already low in ground clearance and when exiting the cabin an individual will inadvertently scrape their back foot behind the heel. If it’s made out of aluminum with ridged grooves there my be injury. I’ve had a similar product and my conclusion was that it was useless and painful.
Thanks,
JD