Ford Latest Patent Brings Fresh Ideas to Camping Trips

Following Ford recent “Model T Moment” announcement of a new electric pickup earlier today, there’s an exciting update—this time, the “T” stands for Tent. Ford has patented a rooftop tent that cleverly pivots upward and backward, allowing it to be stored aerodynamically over the truck bed while driving, then easily unfolded over the top when you’re ready to camp.

Ford images make the tent look more suited to a Cybertruck than a Maverick, but in reality, this innovation could enhance the original equipment camping experience for future models in the brand’s lineup. No doubt this will ruffle feathers among the many outdoor gear accessory companies it might compete with.

Folding Tent Could Improve Range Instead of Hurting It

The patent, titled “Shelter System Having Deployable Platform,” was filed in February 2024 and published just last week.

It’s such a straightforward idea, it feels almost obvious. The tent stores at an angle, stretching from the top of the cab to the tailgate, which helps improve the truck’s aerodynamics—boosting range rather than reducing it. This design also preserves maximum cargo space in the truck bed. Additionally, two side panels attach between the tent and the truck bed to block airflow, providing extra protection for whatever’s inside from the elements.

When it’s time to set up the tent, it unfolds forward starting with a specially designed platform that extends to cover the cab roof. To maximize sleeping space, the platform even extends beyond the front of the cab. This extension is supported by struts that connect to mounts on the front fenders. These struts help bear some of the weight, increasing stability and allowing the tent to be longer without overhanging the truck bed.

Sleeping Platform Doubles as a Covered Workspace

The shelter roof folds forward to cover the sleeping platform, providing a cozy, protected space for occupants. Patent illustrations reveal two windows built into the shelter for ventilation and visibility. They also depict a person standing in the truck bed, using the sleeping platform as a desk while staying comfortably sheltered under the roof.

Typical rooftop tents are mounted on racks over the roof or truck bed, often sticking out into the wind, which creates noise and reduces driving range. Ford innovative design addresses both problems by folding neatly and aerodynamically. Plus, it boosts your truck’s versatility during hauling—so long as your cargo doesn’t exceed the height of the bed.

Will Ford actually build this? It’s uncertain. But we hope they do—or at least collaborate with an aftermarket supplier to bring a similar product to market. With the shelter’s seamless integration, aerodynamic performance, and versatility combined with the Ford F-150 Lightning’s impressive 100+ kilowatt-hour battery, campers could enjoy an unmatched outdoor experience.

This isn’t Ford’s first in-car house.

Ford not new to the idea of turning vehicles into homes. Since the Model T is in the spotlight right now, it’s worth recalling that Ford actually built about half a dozen Model Ts that were tiny house replicas. These miniature homes were used by various companies for advertising—they were impossible to miss and undeniably charming.