Rivian Patents Innovative Wheel Covers for Enhanced Electric Vehicle Efficiency

Rivian is making strides in electric vehicle efficiency by seeking a patent for innovative wheel covers equipped with active aerodynamic elements.

Filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in August 2023 and published in March 2024, the proposed design aims to enhance the performance of Rivian’s electric models, including the updated R1S and R1T.

Traditionally, wheel covers help reduce aerodynamic drag but are fixed in place, limiting their versatility. Rivian’s new patent suggests a breakthrough with movable elements that can adjust based on driving conditions.

These covers could serve a cooling function

The wheel covers would feature a series of openings that align with the wheel spokes when in one position and close to create a smooth surface in another, a process activated by a spring mechanism.

These active wheel covers promise more than aesthetic flexibility; they could also alleviate built-up air pressure in the wheel wells, potentially enhancing aerodynamic performance further. When in the open position, these covers could serve a cooling function, reminiscent of the active grille shutters found in many modern vehicles.

The boxy designs of SUVs and pickup trucks, such as Rivian’s electric off-roaders, present unique challenges for minimizing drag. This challenge has prompted other automotive manufacturers to explore similar aerodynamic solutions.

For example, Stellantis recently patented a deployable rear step with an integrated diffuser for pickup trucks, while Hyundai has tested an active air skirt on its Genesis GV60 luxury model, resulting in a notable drag reduction and an estimated increase in driving range.

As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, these innovations highlight the industry’s ongoing commitment to enhancing efficiency and performance, potentially reshaping the future of electric mobility. Rivian’s pursuit of this patent may signal an exciting development in the quest for better aerodynamics in electric vehicles.