Ford, known for pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, has introduced a novel concept in the realm of mud flaps. Recently disclosed in a patent application published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Ford’s deployable mud flaps offer a sophisticated solution to the age-old problem of spray from tires dirtying a vehicle’s sides.
Outlined in the patent application filed on April 26, 2022, but made public on Feb. 20, Ford’s deployable mud flaps are engineered to automatically extend from a stowed position when triggered by a significant amount of spray. Their purpose is clear: to shield the vehicle’s sides from dirt and grime, ensuring a cleaner appearance.
While Ford hasn’t delved into extensive detail regarding the advantages of deployable flaps over traditional fixed ones, the company highlights the necessity of achieving an optimal spray-shielding position, even if it means obstructing a door handle.
Considerations for aerodynamics are apparent, with Ford having previously patented deployable dive planes for aerodynamic tuning, albeit for performance cars with a different purpose. Speculation abounds regarding which production vehicle, if any, will incorporate these innovative mud flaps.
Notably, Ford is gearing up to unveil a new electric pickup truck in 2025, codenamed T3. Set to be a ground-up electric vehicle (EV) rather than a gasoline model adaptation like the current F-150 Lightning, this upcoming truck could benefit from deployable mud flaps to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and potentially extend its range.
