Future Ford Vehicles Could Get Automatically Adjusting Power Running Boards

Ford Motor Company has filed a patent for automatically adjusting power running boards that may be used on future Ford vehicles, Ford Authority has learned.

The patent was filed on February 15^th, 2022, published on September 17^th, 2024, and assigned serial number 12090959.

The Ford Authority Take

Over the past few months, a number of patents have surfaced outlining all sorts of ways that future Ford vehicles could take on more tasks that users have historically been responsible for performing. That list includes ideas for a system capable of automatically switching drive modes, an optimized driver seat and pedal positioning system, automatically adjusting air vents, and an automatically adjusting seat for pets. Recently, Ford also filed a patent for modular running boards, and now, this newly published piece of intellectual property somewhat combines these ideas into one.

This newly published patent presents us with an idea for automatically adjusting power running boards, which could certainly come in handy for a number of truck, SUV, and van owners, or anything that has a higher ride height and may be more difficult to get in and out of. Power retractable running boards have become quite popular in recent years as a result, but this concept takes things a bit further by adding more adjustability into the equation.

For example, these running boards would be able to extend out further or lower if the system detects that the user needs either. This is particularly important for people that may otherwise struggle to reach existing running board heights due to their own height, or physical limitations of other kinds. This could help not only humans, but also pets that need more help when entering or exiting a vehicle as well. Overall, this seems like a good idea given how universal existing running boards are – whether they be powered or fixed in place.