Stellantis Gains Approval for Innovative Wheel Well Heater Patent

Stellantis (FCA US LLC) has secured a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for a new vehicle wheel well heater design aimed at enhancing safety and performance in cold climates. The newly patented heater prevents snow and ice from building up inside the vehicle’s wheel wells, which can obstruct nearby vehicle components, such as deployable side steps, sensors, and other components.

How the Wheel Well Heater Works – 

This advanced wheel well component consists of a main body and a heating element that receives electrical power through a weatherproof connector. Here’s a look at the key features that make this wheel well heater unique:

• Heater Integration: The heater is embedded within the main body of the wheel well component, keeping it secure and protected from debris and environmental damage. This setup provides direct heat to the wheel well, preventing ice formation by conducting heat through the material.
• Heater Construction: The heating element is designed with conductive material, such as carbon-based material or a metallic wire, which emits heat when powered. The base of the heater can be made from durable polymers, like polycarbonate, to ensure longevity and resilience.
• Temperature Sensors: The heater includes a temperature sensor that activates the heating element when temperatures drop below a certain threshold. This helps optimize power usage by automatically turning the heater on only when it’s needed.
• Enhanced Winter Driving Safety: With the heater activated, the wheel well remains free of snow and ice, which could otherwise dislodge into critical components, such as brakes and suspension, or affect vehicle handling. By keeping these areas clear, Stellantis aims to improve driver safety and comfort in winter weather.

Practical Benefits of the New Wheel Well Heater – 

This patent opens the door for more innovative winter-focused accessories from Stellantis brands. Drivers in cold climates know the hassle of frozen wheel wells, which can impact handling and lead to costly maintenance if ice buildup damages sensitive components. This technology directly addresses that issue, providing:

• Convenient Operation: The heater automatically activates when temperatures drop, reducing the need for manual maintenance.
• Improved Vehicle Safety: Prevents ice buildup that could interfere with critical parts, such as side steps and suspension components.

What’s Next?

With this newly approved patent, Stellantis is closer to implementing this innovative technology in future Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, and Ram models, particularly those geared toward all-weather capability. The wheel well heater is expected to be especially beneficial in models aimed at off-roading, winter sports, or adventure travel, where extreme weather conditions are common.

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