Future Ford Pickups Could Get Ground Penetrating Tailgate Sensor

Future Ford Pickups Could Get Ground Penetrating Tailgate Sensor

Posted on January 10, 2025

Ford has recently filed a patent for a pioneering tailgate feature that could be integrated into future pickups—a ground-penetrating sensor that could add incredible versatility and functionality to the traditional tailgate. Filed in January 2022 and published in November 2024, this patent aligns with Ford’s ongoing commitment to innovation in the competitive truck market, where manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to make their vehicles more useful and versatile for drivers.

This proposed tailgate sensor would use ground-penetrating radar technology, a system typically employed in professional fields like construction, utility maintenance, and even law enforcement. Currently, these radar systems require costly, labor-intensive equipment mounted on trailers or portable carts, emitting high-frequency radio waves to detect underground elements like utility lines, road wear, or bridge weaknesses. Ford’s idea reimagines this concept, integrating the technology directly into a pickup truck’s tailgate, which would make it more accessible and convenient for everyday use.

The concept behind Ford’s tailgate sensor is simple yet highly practical: a driver could lower the tailgate to activate the system and drive over an area to conduct inspections. This could provide on-the-go analysis, offering real-time insights without the need for specialized attachments or separate equipment. The sensor could even scan in an upward direction, potentially providing further utility for different scenarios, such as detecting overhead obstructions or hazards.

Ford’s inventive approach to tailgate functionality illustrates how trucks continue to evolve beyond just hauling capacity, with new technologies that expand their utility in various fields. This ground-penetrating sensor may one day help owners accomplish tasks like pre-construction inspections or utility line detection with ease, positioning Ford pickups as even more versatile and invaluable tools for both professional and personal use.