The Ram 1500 is the latest truck to riff on pickup tailgate design with a new, so-called multifunction feature. The design allows the door to open downward, like a traditional tailgate, but its two sections are also hinged at the sides and open up like barn doors.
Ram says the new tailgate “further enhances bed access and utility” by making curbside loading easier, and eases access for stepping up into the bed and loading bulky items. Ram also says its design is “trailer-friendly, unlike other multi-element tailgates,” but we’re not sure for whom that dig is intended.
Ram’s multifunction tailgate opens four ways: either side can swing out independently; both sides can be opened together; and the entire door folds down as a single unit. When folded down like a traditional tailgate, Ram says it will support 907 kg (2,000 pounds).
That assortment of configurations outdoes the Honda Ridgeline’s tailgate, whose single side hinge allows the entire door to swing open.
The 1500’s trick tailgate follows on the 2019 GMC Sierra’s Multi-Pro tailgate, which does a whole slew of different useful things.
Ram says its new tailgate will be offered in all seven 1500 trims, and will be in dealer showrooms this spring.
You may also like
