FYI: Honda is pioneering a new approach to the mid-gate, a feature also seen in Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV trucks.
Honda’s Innovative Mid-Gate Design: A Patented Approach
In the rapidly evolving world of automotive design, Honda is carving its niche by patenting a unique version of the mid-gate feature. Known for models such as the Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV, the mid-gate is seeing a contemporary revival with a unique twist from Honda.
Honda’s Patent Details
First revealed by Car and Driver, Honda’s innovative patent application was made public on June 27, under the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The detailed description labels it as an "adjustable cargo area partition," a term that might undersell its potential.
A New Take on an Old Idea
While GM’s original mid-gate design—utilized in the early 2000s within models like the Chevy Avalanche and Cadillac Escalade EXT—offered flexible cargo and passenger space, it did come with its drawbacks. The most significant was an open space in the cab when the cargo bed was extended. In contrast, Honda’s iteration introduces a flexible divider that preserves the cab integrity, potentially extending passenger comfort and providing more variability in cargo bed length.
How Honda’s Mid-Gate Stands Out
Honda’s mid-gate design is distinctively innovative:
- Adjustable Divider: Unlike GM’s fold-down approach, Honda’s divider moves forward and backward, allowing for adjustable bed lengths.
- Extended Roof Option: When the divider is placed at the rear, the roof extension provides additional room in the cab, ensuring comfort without compromising space.
The Comeback of the Mid-Gate
The mid-gate is enjoying a resurgence in modern electric vehicles. The Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV, built on GM’s Ultium platform, feature this adaptable design. However, production has seen delays, with large-scale manufacturing now postponed until mid-2026.
Competitors Eyeing the Mid-Gate
Honda is not alone in reimagining the mid-gate. Ford has shown interest, demonstrated through two patent applications featuring mid-gate pass-throughs. One application even combines the mid-gate with fold-flat seats, showcasing different potential uses of this versatile feature.
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Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
