Ford Global Technologies filed US Patent No. 12,741,514 on September 22, 2026, describing a new front cargo hold design for electric vehicles. The compartment functions as a secondary tailgate, opening into a flat work surface. The patent also details a fold-down television integrated into the storage area, which remains stowed when the compartment is closed.
The design includes a hood surface that allows for interchangeable metal or polymer panels, enabling users to switch between materials based on specific needs. Additionally, the filing outlines a self-positioning system that uses sensors to check for clearance, allowing the vehicle to move itself to a different parking spot for improved access to the cargo area.
While the patent references an electrified truck, it does not explicitly name the upcoming Ford Fathom. The Fathom is expected to launch with a starting price below $30,000. Ford has not confirmed whether these features will reach production, as the company frequently files broad patents for theoretical concepts that may not appear in future vehicle lineups.
The document also describes a rear cargo access point featuring a lower section that functions as a horizontal surface. The integration of a television is intended for use at campsites or tailgate events, powered by the vehicle's battery. Ford is currently focused on cost management for the Fathom project, making the inclusion of these premium features uncertain.
