While poking around on the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website, I came across something pretty interesting—a fresh patent filed by Stellantis (FCA US, LLC) that could signal a high-tech leap for Ram’s upcoming midsize pickup truck. Issued on May 15, 2025, the patent covers a Deployable Fabric Aero Diffuser that’s designed to improve a vehicle’s aerodynamics with a clever stow-and-deploy system. And based on the design drawings, it might be more than just a general idea—it looks a lot like the Ram midsize EV truck Stellantis teased back during their EV Day 2021 presentation.
So what exactly is this thing? In short, the patent describes a fabric-based diffuser mounted to the underside or rear of a vehicle. Unlike traditional solid diffusers, this version uses a flexible panel—like heavy-duty nylon—that rolls in and out of a concealed housing. It’s supported by folding or telescoping arms (struts) and can automatically deploy at highway speeds to reduce drag, then tuck itself away at lower speeds to save space.
There’s a lot of innovation packed into this design. First, by using fabric instead of molded plastic or carbon fiber, Stellantis can reduce costs and free up valuable underbody space when it’s not in use. Second, it’s adaptable: the diffuser deploys based on vehicle speed using motors and sensors controlled by the onboard ECU. It even has versions where the supporting arms are linked to gear racks or fold up like origami to stow neatly.
More importantly, this kind of aerodynamic upgrade isn’t just for looks—it could improve fuel efficiency on combustion trucks or boost electric range on EVs. That’s especially important if this is going on a new Ram pickup that’s rumored to ride on the STLA Large architecture, which supports both gas and electric powertrains.
Whether we’re looking at a cool concept that’ll stay in the patent vault or a future production feature remains to be seen. But based on the level of detail and the connection to Ram’s previously teased EV truck, this fabric diffuser could be a real part of Stellantis’ midsize truck game plan.
Keep an eye out—if Ram wants to bring an aerodynamic, high-efficiency truck to market, this deployable diffuser might just help them lead the charge.
Source: USPTO
