Smart Tailgate: Future Developments

Integrating Vehicle Systems for Increased Intelligence

Smart features like tailgates will merge seamlessly with the vehicle's other systems. We only have remote access via the keys and the front controls at the moment. However, deeper connections and more features will be developed in the future. Your tailgate could communicate with the vehicle's navigation systems. For example, if the car is approaching the grocery store, the navigation system could communicate with the tailgate to lower to a preset height to make bag unloading convenient. In addition, if the vehicle's tailgate tends to get used soon after the car starts, the tailgate could learn to initiate a slight pop open during startup. Such intelligent features will make using the tailgate more effortless and will make the tailgate appear to have anticipatory motion.

More Adaptable For Different Situations

The new rugged smart tailgates offer various features for different users. For instance, for nature lovers, the new tailgates offer better protection against the elements such as dust, rain, and extreme temperatures. While you are camping in the mountains or driving through a storm, the tailgate will open and close without any issues. For commercial use, like in delivery vans, the tailgate could use sensors to be aware of the area around it. For instance, if a wall or another vehicle is too close to the car, the tailgate will slow down or change the opening angle to avoid hitting anything. Long commutes could also be aided through automation where the car tailgate automatically opens when it senses a baby or other heavy items in your hands.

Getting Tailgates That Remember You

Tailgates that remember users for their particular functions for different users are on the ignite! While some tailgates allow for a height setting to be saved, tomorrow’s versions will be smarter. Each user will be identified, and the tailgate will know that “Mom prefers a lower opening to greet the kids, Dad prefers a higher opening for loading, and the teen just wants it to be quick.” It will remember and change the setting as soon as the user gets to the driver’s seat. Tailgates will even change based on daily routines. If a user frequently loads a backpack, it may widen a bit during that time to ease the loading. That level of adjustment will definitely make the tailgate feel custom tailored.  

Tailgates That Remember You

Smart tailgates are on the ignite as vehicles are becoming more electric. Future versions will also have more energy efficient motors which helps them draw less energy from the car’s battery. They might also be able to recuperate a tiny bit of energy when closing the tailgates, just like some car brakes that recover energy. Materials used will improve too. Tailgates made of stronger and lighter cheaper plastics and recycled metals would counter lower the fuel and electricity the car would consume. You get smart technology convenience without cost to the environment.

Smart Tailgates Now Available For Over 200 Car Models

We make smart tailgates for over 200 car models which include Toyota, BMW, BYD, and Volvo. We expect broader coverage in the future. New electric cars and SUVs will have smart tailgates ready for immediate adaptation. There may be more convenient ways to enhance older cars—through upgrade kits to add smart tailgate features to cars that didn’t come equipped with them. Therefore, more drivers will appreciate the convenience smart tailgates bring.