Big, Multifunctional Cargo Area—Now With a Motor: Rivian Prepares a New Feature

Rivian’s newly published patent documents reveal a redesigned rear tailgate in which the glass section can open separately—using electric motors. According to the filing, the rear window can be raised either together with the tailgate or independently. The concept is similar to the split rear glass found on vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX, but Rivian’s version would be fully motorized.

The patent drawings also highlight changes to the vehicle’s interior controls. Unlike current Rivian models, where most functions are handled through the central touchscreen, the illustrations show physical buttons, rotary knobs, and even a slider control.

The patent further mentions a camera system capable of recognizing user movements, including gestures that can be used as commands to operate body components. One example cited is a foot-swipe gesture under the rear bumper to open the cargo area when the driver’s hands are full.

Finally, the patent sketches offer an early glimpse of what a future refreshed version of the Rivian R1S could look like.