Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has recently submitted a patent application for a unique full-size spare wheel mount designed for its R1S SUV. The patent, uncovered by RivianForums, showcases several inventive features in the design.
The mount is crafted to accommodate a spare wheel for the R1S, featuring a latch that stretches horizontally across the wheel without securing it in place. Instead, the wheel is bolted to an exterior bracket on the vehicle, with the outer face facing inward. This unconventional arrangement allows easy access to the cavity inside the wheel.
Rivian highlights the versatility of the cavity, suggesting it can be utilized to store various items. The patent application mentions that the cavity, referred to as a “container,” can house a first aid kit, waste can, water container, cooler, vacuum canister, compressed air system, toolbox, electrical appliances, electrical cord, and more. Rivian’s patent illustrations depict the potential for designing specific containers for different items, such as an auxiliary battery.
The spare wheel dock could serve as a convenient location for Rivian to implement electrical connectors, ports, or a combination, potentially supporting features like the recently patented mobile movie projector.
See also: Rivian R1T Patents Innovative Movie Projector Accessory for Gear Tunnel
The patent hints at the possibility of connecting the container to the car’s user interface, allowing owners to monitor the status of various items stored in the cavity. For instance, the infotainment screen could remind users to empty the waste can or provide information on the first aid kit and cooler.
Rivian has a history of innovative storage solutions, exemplified by the Gear Tunnel’s kitchen in the R1T model. The spare wheel mount patent adds to the company’s repertoire of creative and functional designs.
See also: Rivian Secures Patent for Innovative Camp Kitchen Designed for Electric SUV
It’s worth noting that other automakers, such as Ford and Mercedes-Benz, have also explored inventive uses for spare wheel covers in their patent filings. Ford proposed turning the spare wheel cover into a speaker, while Mercedes-Benz suggested the G-Class cover could double as carry-on luggage in previous patent submissions.
