Rivian has filed patents revealing plans for a redesigned rear tailgate with independently-powered glass, alongside a surprising return to physical controls within the vehicle cabin. These filings offer the first official look at potential upgrades for the R1S and suggest a shift away from the current reliance on touchscreen-only operation.
Redesigned Tailgate for Enhanced Utility
The patent details a rear tailgate system where the rear glass can open and close independently, powered by electric motors. This functionality mirrors systems found in vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX, providing convenient access to the cargo area without lifting the entire tailgate. The design also suggests potential integration of gesture-based controls; for example, a user could wave their foot under the bumper to open the tailgate hands-free while carrying items.
Return of Physical Controls: A Move Towards Simplicity?
More significantly, the patent drawings depict a vehicle interior featuring physical buttons, dials, and sliders alongside the existing touchscreen interface. Currently, Rivian’s vehicles require drivers to access nearly all functions through the central screen, a design choice that has drawn criticism for being distracting and less intuitive.
The inclusion of physical controls is noteworthy because it represents a potential acknowledgment of user feedback and a desire for improved usability. While Rivian has established itself as a software-focused innovator – evidenced by Volkswagen’s $5 billion investment in their software development partnership – the company appears to be considering a more balanced approach.
Why This Matters
Rivian’s original design philosophy prioritized a minimalist, tech-forward interior. However, the return of physical controls suggests a growing recognition that some functions are better suited to tactile input. This shift could improve driver focus and accessibility, especially for frequently used features like climate control, volume adjustment, and drive mode selection.
The patent filings underscore the importance of user-centered design, even for companies deeply invested in software innovation. By blending digital interfaces with physical controls, Rivian could create a more intuitive and satisfying driving experience.
Ultimately, these patents suggest that Rivian is not only refining its hardware but also reevaluating its approach to interior design based on real-world usage and feedback. This could lead to a more user-friendly and practical vehicle in future iterations of the R1S and other models.
