Although their new storage practice seems to be far different from their usual versions, The Drive - a well-known one-stop-shop for all things about automotive - seems to be happy to hear that Ford has applied for a patent involving a so-called "powered sliding platform" located in the bed on its upcoming Ford F-150 Hybrid. Typically, it was found that sliding drawers has been the trademark that is being used by Odyssey Specialty Vehicles for their emergency services conversions and similar practices are used by First Priority and Proliner Rescue. Now, the company is said to be adding this feature to one of their much anticipated Ford F-150 Hybrid.
A Powered Sliding Platform
According to reports revealed by The Drive, with the company's plans to easily access the cargo from the bed, Ford plans to utilize an electric sliding tray that will be set to bring the contents of the bed out behind the vehicle. Additionally, it was found that people from the fire department, police, and EMS personnel are normally using similar devices but the only difference is that it comes with a cabinetry on top of it wherein for years now, "slideouts" was regarded as something that is very helpful during emergencies and operations. However, the one proposed by Ford would allegedly not only be useful for storage but rather, could also serve as a double for a work table for owners who regularly use their truck as a work vehicle.
Meanwhile, it is believed that it's not the first time that Ford has incorporated helpful tools into their trucks to assist owners on the job site. As of the press time, Ford offers Ford Telematics for owners to track vehicle operations and they also offer handy features like lift gate steps and a rear camera with trailer assist. The company says that they will be interested in seeing whether the sliding tray or Powered Sliding Platform would make it into the production stage, but if it doesn't, Ford continues to explain that there are plenty of ways to get one aftermarket.
Ford's Patent
Furthermore, as per Fox News, the patent says it's powerful enough to work on inclines with a heavy load, which is seen to be likely difficult or impossible to do with a manually-operated platform. At the moment, the company has not made any official announcement with regards to the patent, but, has highly emphasized that a hybrid F-150 will be in production by 2020 and that its electric motor will have the ability to provide stationary accessory power, together with improving the fuel economy.
