Abstract: A method of controlling access into a vehicle interior from a vehicle exterior using an access door includes generating a digital key signal via a mobile device in possession of a vehicle user. The method also includes receiving, via a virtual key control module (VKCM), the digital key signal from the mobile device and communicating a signal indicative of the received digital key signal to a vehicle controller. The method additionally includes detecting a presence of the vehicle user external to the vehicle within a predetermined proximity of the access door via an ultrasonic sensing arrangement. The method also includes communicating, via the ultrasonic sensing arrangement, the detected presence of the vehicle user to the vehicle controller. Furthermore, the method includes commanding, via the vehicle controller, a mechanism to release the access door in response to the received digital key signal and the detected presence of the vehicle user.

Abstract: One general aspect includes a method for presence-based vehicle door operation, the method including: establishing a defined zone in an environment surrounding a vehicle; recognizing a presence of a user within the zone; recognizing the user has remained within the zone for a prescribed time period; recognizing the user no longer remains within the zone; and causing the vehicle door to open after recognizing the user no longer remains within the zone.