Abstract: A step assist has a step pad operatively coupled to a stationary bumper for a vehicle that is automatically repositionable between a stowed position and a deployed position. An upper surface of the step pad forms a functional step in both the stowed position and the deployed position. The stationary bumper includes a storage compartment having an opening in a top wall of the stationary bumper providing access to the storage compartment. First and second pivot mechanisms are operatively coupled between the stationary bumper and respective distal ends of the step pad. The first and second pivot mechanisms are configured to eccentrically-rotate the step pad between the stowed position wherein a lower surface of the step pad encloses the opening of the storage compartment and the deployed position wherein the step pad is spaced apart from the opening of the storage compartment providing access to the storage compartment.

Abstract: An elongate base structure for receiving an accent strip for a vehicle molding. The elongate base structure has top and bottom grooves defined in an outward facing surface, and a middle base portion with at least one adhesive region for receiving an adhesive, such as adhesive tape. At least one slot is defined in one of the top or bottom grooves adjacent to and extending along the at least one adhesive region in order to allow the liner of the adhesive tape to be removed through the slot after the accent strip has been positioned in the base structure. An aperture is defined in the middle base portion, between the top and bottom grooves, for use by an assembler to support and position the accent strip in the base structure. The base structure may define an opening at each end to receive and conceal the ends of the accent strip.

Abstract: A bumper assembly is provided having a flange that overlies the body of the vehicle. The flange may be a body flange extending from an elongate bumper beam or a cladding flange extending from an external cladding that covers at least a portion of the bumper beam. The flange may protect the body from wear or corrosion, and/or bridge a gap between the frame and the body of the vehicle. The assembly may also include a contact structure for contacting at least a portion of the vehicle frame, such as the hitch beam. The contact structure may resist rotation of the bumper assembly, prevent vibration of the bumper assembly against the frame, and/or support a vertical load on the bumper. In some embodiments, the assembly may be primarily mounted to the body of the vehicle, such that the bumper beam “hangs” from the body of the vehicle.

Abstract: An elongate base structure for receiving an accent strip for a vehicle molding. The elongate base structure has top and bottom grooves defined in an outward facing surface, and a middle base portion with at least one adhesive region for receiving an adhesive, such as adhesive tape. At least one slot is defined in one of the top or bottom grooves adjacent to and extending along the at least one adhesive region in order to allow the liner of the adhesive tape to be removed through the slot after the accent strip has been positioned in the base structure. An aperture is defined in the middle base portion, between the top and bottom grooves, for use by an assembler to support and position the accent strip in the base structure. The base structure may define an opening at each end to receive and conceal the ends of the accent strip.

Abstract: A composite running board for use with an automotive vehicle. The running board includes a step portion formed by a top deck and an aerodynamic bottom cover. A mounting portion is formed integrally with the step portion and includes a vertical mounting plate and a horizontal mounting plate for attaching the running board to the vehicle. A plurality of support ribs are sandwiched between the top deck and the bottom cover and connected to the mounting portion to provide structural rigidity to the running board.

Abstract: A bumper assembly is provided having a flange that overlies the body of the vehicle. The flange may be a body flange extending from an elongate bumper beam or a cladding flange extending from an external cladding that covers at least a portion of the bumper beam. The flange may protect the body from wear or corrosion, and/or bridge a gap between the frame and the body of the vehicle. The assembly may also include a contact structure for contacting at least a portion of the vehicle frame, such as the hitch beam. The contact structure may resist rotation of the bumper assembly, prevent vibration of the bumper assembly against the frame, and/or support a vertical load on the bumper. In some embodiments, the assembly may be primarily mounted to the body of the vehicle, such that the bumper beam “hangs” from the body of the vehicle.

Abstract: A composite running board for use with an automotive vehicle. The running board includes a step portion formed by a top deck and an aerodynamic bottom cover. A mounting portion is formed integrally with the step portion and includes a vertical mounting plate and a horizontal mounting plate for attaching the running board to the vehicle. A plurality of support ribs are sandwiched between the top deck and the bottom cover and connected to the mounting portion to provide structural rigidity to the running board.