Tesla has filed a US patent application for a new device for its Cybertruck pickup truck. It is an inflatable aerodynamic deflector that should reduce air resistance when towing trailers, Electrek reports.
The patent application states that the structure is made of drop stitch material, which allows air chambers to be created between parallel layers. The device is equipped with a pressure adjustment system and various mounting options — rail guides, magnetic fasteners and quick-release clips. This ensures reliable installation on the car body.
The deflector is located on the Cybertruck’s cargo bed and rises to cover the gap between the cab and the trailer. In this way, it continues the line of the windshield’s slope, directing the flow of air over the trailer. According to the developers, this should reduce aerodynamic drag, which increases significantly when towing.
Similar solutions are already being used in trucks, where air shields are used to reduce the gap between the tractor and the semi-trailer. In the case of the Cybertruck, Tesla offers a mobile version that can be installed and removed as needed.
At the same time, the article emphasizes that filing a patent does not necessarily mean launching the device into production. The Cybertruck program has smaller volumes than expected, so the company may abandon additional accessories. However, the idea itself demonstrates the search for technical solutions to improve towing efficiency.
Recall, the day before yesterday we reported that a lawsuit was filed against Tesla due to the unsuccessful design of the Cybertruck doors, which led to the deaths of three students.