First Salvos Offered in Tailgate Wars

Ram Trucks and GMC Introduce Unconventional Tailgates.

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The Ram multifunction tailgate adds a first-of-its-kind 60-40 split, swing-away functionality.
The Ram multifunction tailgate adds a first-of-its-kind 60-40 split, swing-away functionality.

Ram Truck unveiled a new multifunction tailgate for its Ram 1500 that offers customers cargo-access flexibility. In addition to retaining the capabilities of a fully dampened, drop-down tailgate with remote release options, the Ram multifunction tailgate adds a first-of-its-kind 60-40 split, swing-away functionality.

Independent opening features make curbside loading easier. Being able to access the bed closer to the bumper makes stepping up easier; makes loading bulky items easier; makes unloading and washout easier and allows forklift loading.

Unlike other multi-element tailgates, the Ram multifunction tailgate does not require that the trailer and hitch be removed before opening. With a 2,000-lb. load rating, Ram multifunction tailgate retains all of the traditional tailgate’s capability.

Ram's multifunction tailgate has four configurations: open flat, open left door only, open right door only and open both doors. Each door swings open 88 degrees and access can be further enhanced via a retractable center-mounted step option.

The multifunction tailgate will be available across all seven 2019 Ram 1500 models and will reach dealerships in the second quarter of 2019. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price is $995. The optional center step is $295.

GMC Offers Six-function Tailgate

MultiPro, the world’s first six-function tailgate, allows easier loading, unloading and bed access and is available on all trim levels. The six-function MultiPro tailgate available on all GMC trim levels and standard on SLT, AT4 and Denali Sierra Heavy Duty.

The MultiPro tailgate can be configured and positioned to function in several ways. Sierra’s MultiPro Tailgate is essentially two tailgates in one. MultiPro’s design consists of the primary gate – which is hinged like a conventional tailgate – and a smaller inner gate, which is hinged within the primary gate panel itself. Raising and lowering these two tailgate panels in different combinations allows MultiPro to take on a variety of different roles, ranging from a bed extender to an entry step, and many functions in between.

MultiPro can open and close just like any other conventional tailgate. By pressing a release button on the tailgate itself, a button on the instrument panel, or a button on the remote key fob.

Lowering MultiPro’s inner gate while the primary gate is also lowered effectively allows you to stand nearly 7-9" closer to the pickup box floor than with a conventional tailgate – perfect for reaching further into Sierra’s cargo box, or for loading and unloading bulky or heavy items.

Sierra’s cargo boxes feature a two-tier loading design, which allow owners to insert a platform – possibly a plywood sheet – to separate items within the bed. MultiPro extends that versatility by also providing a load stop for longer items placed into the upper tier of storage.

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