Rivian files patent for electric tailgate with gesture control
Rivian patents a motorized tailgate with separate rear glass and gesture control, hinting at future R1S updates. Includes physical buttons and camera tech.
Rivian has filed a patent for a tailgate design where the rear glass can open independently via electric actuators. According to the filing, the glass can be raised either together with the tailgate or on its own. The concept resembles the separate rear glass seen on the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX, but Rivian's version would be motorized.
The control elements shown in the patent illustrations have also drawn attention. Unlike current Rivian models, which rely heavily on the central touchscreen for most functions, the documents depict a vehicle with physical buttons, rotary dials, and even a slider.
The patent mentions a camera capable of recognizing user movements, including gestures that could serve as commands for operating body components. For example, a foot gesture under the rear bumper could open the tailgate when hands are full.
The patent schematics also offer a first glimpse at what a future refreshed version of the Rivian R1S might look like.