Abstract: An active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board for a motor vehicle. By using the existing automated running board linkages as a mounting location for the panels, the addition of a dedicated motor, linkage/pivot, and vehicle attachment scheme is no longer need for the aero benefit since components can be shared. The use of the moving linkages (Inner link, outer link, & lower mount) as attachment points for a panel(s) that is used to limit the flow of air to the underbody of a vehicle. When the miming board is in its stowed position. The panel is also stowed out of the line of sight and airflow. When the benefit of the aero panel is desired, the running board moves to the deployed position, orienting the aero panel in a position to reduce the amount of airflow under the vehicle.

Abstract: There is provided a sidestep platform servo/electrical removal mechanism, a running board with a step that is operably removable without tools.

Abstract: A step board that is a multi-piece board including at least a first piece and a second piece that can be easily pierced at predetermined locations to create predetermined apertures for attaching step board assembly components, such as step mats, end caps, bracket attachments, and etc. The first and second pieces are then secured together.

Abstract: An active rocker aerodynamic shield (12) integrated into an automated running board (14) for a motor vehicle. By using the existing automated running board linkages (24, 26) as a mounting location for the aerodynamic panels (16) of the shield (12), the addition of a dedicated motor, linkage/pivot, and vehicle attachment scheme is no longer needed for the aerodynamic benefit since components can be shared. The moving linkages (24, 26) are used as attachment points for the aerodynamic panel(s) (16) to limit the flow of air to the under-body of a vehicle. When the running board (14) is in its stowed position, the aerodynamic panel (16) is also stowed out of the line of sight and airflow. When the benefit of the aerodynamic panel (16) is desired, the running board (14) moves to the deployed position, orienting the aerodynamic panel (16) in a position to reduce the amount of airflow under the vehicle.