Abstract: A lifting apparatus for lifting and lowering a component of an automobile body that is hingedly and releasably attached to the automobile body at first and second attachment points. The lifting apparatus includes an extension member having first and second ends that is operable to move from a normally retracted position to an extended position. The first end of the extension member is pivotally attached to the component at a third attachment point and the second end of the extension member is pivotally attached to the automobile body. An actuator is operable to extend and retract the extension member. When a one of the first and second attachment points is released, the extension member moves from the retracted position to the extended position and moves the component to an open position about the other of the first and second attachment points.