Abstract: An illuminated hitch receiver assembly for a vehicle includes a light source associated with one of a hitch receiver or a drawbar. A light source actuator is associated with a vehicle-mounted wiring connector or a light source connector. The light source actuator may be one of a capacitive switch, a touch switch, or a push switch. The light source may be integral to a portion of the receiver or may be releasably connected to the drawbar.

Abstract: A liftgate/decklid assembly for a motor vehicle includes a liftgate panel hingedly connected to the vehicle to define a liftgate swing arc. A decklid panel is hingedly connected to the liftgate panel to define a decklid swing arc. The decklid and liftgate panels are not aligned, causing the decklid swing arc to be different from the liftgate swing arc. The assembly further includes a liftgate/decklid assembly closure mechanism including an articulating latch member configured for translating as needed between an orientation normal to the liftgate swing arc and an orientation normal to the decklid swing arc prior to engaging a fixed angle striker.

Abstract: A liftgate/decklid assembly for a motor vehicle includes a liftgate panel hingedly connected to the vehicle to define a liftgate swing arc. A decklid panel is hingedly connected to the liftgate panel to define a decklid swing arc. The decklid and liftgate panels are not aligned, causing the decklid swing arc to be different from the liftgate swing arc. The assembly further includes a liftgate/decklid assembly closure mechanism including an articulating latch member configured for translating as needed between an orientation normal to the liftgate swing arc and an orientation normal to the decklid swing arc prior to engaging a fixed angle striker.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a fuel tank, a battery, a first exoskeleton, and a second exoskeleton. The fuel tank and the battery straddle a driveline and are each disposed below a seating area. The first exoskeleton has a first pair of rails secured to each other by a first cross member. The second exoskeleton has a second pair of rails secured to each other by a second cross member. The first and second exoskeletons surround the fuel tank and battery, respectively, and are configured to absorb energy during an impact to protect the fuel tank and battery.