Abstract: A step assembly for a vehicle includes a base member and at least one movable member. The base member and the at least one movable member each define a stepping surface on which a vehicle user may elevate himself. The movable member is repositionable with respect to the base member to selectively alter the length of the step assembly.

Abstract: A multi-purpose tailgate for a vehicle. The tailgate includes a multiple link mechanism operatively attaching the tailgate to the vehicle body. The link mechanism articulates the tailgate from a closed position into first and second open positions. First and second opposed spring assemblies operatively connect the tailgate to the link mechanism and the link mechanism to the vehicle body, respectively. Cables (adapted to support a predetermined weight) operatively attach the vehicle to the link mechanism and to the tailgate. First and second latch mechanisms are operatively defined in opposed sides of the tailgate/link mechanism and in respective adjacent areas of the vehicle body. The first latch mechanism is adapted to selectively open/close the tailgate. The second latch mechanism is adapted to selectively allow the link mechanism to articulate so as to move the tailgate between the two open positions.

Abstract: A tailgate step has at least one step held in a working position between tailgate level and ground level by one or more supports. Each support is attached at its upper end to a hinge. Each hinge is attached to or integral with an end of a support channel embedded in the upper surface of a lowered tailgate. Each support member channel is normal to and communicates with a step channel embedded at or near the bottom edge of the tailgate. The step and supports are sized and configured to pivot on the hinges and be stored within the corresponding channels, so that the upper surface of the tailgate is flat when the tailgate step is stored. The channels may be formed into or affixed to the tailgate by methods that prevent the entry of contaminants into the interior of the tailgate.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: A stepgate that increases the contained storage area of a vehicle and utilizes the tailgate as a stepgate to aid in lifting objects to the storage area of the vehicle. The stepgate adjusts horizontally, whereby this motion allows the stepgate to clear features of the vehicle as well as adjusting the position of an extension platform. The extension platform would adjust horizontally in conjunction with the tailgate to effectively increase the contained storage area of the vehicle. The stepgate, lift feature utilizes the tailgate as the lifting platform. The stepgate is designed where a bracket contacts the ground maintaining the lifting platform slightly above ground level. This allows the integration of the tailgate into the stepgate without subjecting the tailgate to any damage. The design further allows the tailgate to operate, function and remove in the same manner as the original vehicle.

Abstract: A ladder for a truck fitted with a pivotal tailgate, the ladder comprising a first leg portion pivotally coupled to a second leg portion, where at least one of the leg portions is fitted with at least one rung. An upper end of the first leg portion is pivotally attachable to an upper portion of the tailgate and a lower end of the second leg portion is pivotally attachable to a lower portion of the truck. When the tailgate is in its closed position, the first leg portion and the second leg portion continuously extend in a first operable position and opening the tailgate facilitates deploying the ladder into a corresponding second operable position.

Abstract: A tailgate or side-gate for a vehicle, including a pickup truck, is disclosed that, when lowered, forms at least one step that is lower than the bed or floor of the vehicle. A more preferred embodiment forms at least two steps at different levels so that one may easily walk into the box with both arms full. When raised the exterior of the tailgate can have an appearance like the exterior of an original equipment tailgate. A mechanism for automatically lowering and raising the tailgate or side-gate is also disclosed along with several other functional options.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are illustrated for accessing, extending and exiting a truck bed and having a pair of opposed end frame members (A) carried on opposed respective sides of the truck preferably on a truck having a tailgate. A transverse member (B) is substantially U-shaped and constructed of tubular frame members and carried in such a way that the legs (C) are pivotally carried between the upright frame members. A releasable fastening member (D) is provided for positioning the transverse member in upright position while stop member (E) limits downward pivotal movement of transverse member.

Abstract: A tailgate has a least one step held in a working position between tailgate level and ground level by one or more supports. Each support is attached at its upper end to a hinge. Each hinge is attached to or integral with an end of a support channel embedded in the upper surface of a lowered tailgate. Each support member channel is normal to and communicates with a step channel embedded at or near the bottom edge of the tailgate. The step and supports are sized and configured to pivot on the hinges and be stored within the corresponding channels, so that the upper surface of the tailgate is flat when the tailgate step is stored. The channels may be formed into or affixed to the tailgate by methods that prevent the entry of contaminants into the interior of the tailgate.

Abstract: A tailgate for a vehicle has a supplemental tailgate that retracts within the tailgate and is extendable therefrom in order to provide multiple assist functions. The supplemental tailgate includes a pivotable molding, which mounts on a movable frame portion, and a latching assembly. When pivoted, the pivotable molding releases the latching assembly, allowing the supplemental tailgate to be moved to various extended positions. When the movable frame portion is in an essentially fully extended position, it can be rotated downward relative to the tailgate and a flip step pivoted to a use position in order to provide an assist step function.

Abstract: A tailgate ramp system for providing convenient pickup bed access and safe vehicle loading/unloading includes a main frame with side members and a base member. A pair of ramp units are rotatably coupled to respective side members and are independently operable for convenient truck bed access. Each ramp unit includes a plurality of selectively extendable ramp sections. The ramp units are pivotally coupled to the frame side members for movement between vertical and horizontal configurations. Accordingly, the ramp units operate as tailgate components at the vertical configuration and as ramps at the horizontal configuration. An extension bar mounted on the base member enables slidable positioning of the ramp units at the horizontal configuration.

Abstract: A tailgate pocket step including a pocket step box and a pocket step assembly slidably insertable into the pocket step box. The step assembly includes a planar plate and a hinged platform that lies in the plane of the plate when the step assembly is in the stored position and angle outwardly to form a step when the step assembly is in the deployed position.

Abstract: A vehicle closure member with an integrated step is provided for improving access to a vehicle cargo area. The vehicle closure member also includes an internal cavity, an orifice positioned in the internal cavity, and a track mechanism disposed in the internal cavity that is in alignment with the orifice. The track mechanism engages the step member which slideably extends through the orifice and pivots to a deployed position to provide a step for access to the vehicle cargo area. An interlock assembly can be provided to prevent closing of the vehicle closure member when the step member is in the deployed position.

Abstract: A tailgate ramp system for providing a safe and convenient system for loading/unloading all-terrain vehicles. The tailgate ramp system includes a pair of telescoping structures pivotally attached to a pickup box, wherein each telescoping structure is comprised of a frame structure and a plurality of telescoping sections slidably positioned within the frame structure. The telescoping sections have cross members for supporting the wheels of a vehicle during loading/unloading thereof.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: A tailgate or side-gate for a vehicle, including a pickup truck, is disclosed that, when lowered, forms at least one step that is lower than the bed or floor of the vehicle. A more preferred embodiment forms at least two steps at different levels so that one may easily walk into the box with both arms full. When raised the exterior of the tailgate can have an appearance like the exterior of an original equipment tailgate. A mechanism for automatically lowering and raising the tailgate or side-gate is also disclosed along with several other functional options.

Abstract: The Folding Tailgate Extension of the present invention is designed to provide a convenient and compact means to aid in loading and unloading pickup trucks. To attain this, the present invention essentially comprises a folding ramp assembly installed along the outer edge of an existing pickup truck tailgate that can extend downward to the ground behind the lowered tailgate. The Folding Tailgate Extension can be used as either a ramp or a step, and is easily folded and concealed inside of a pickup truck tailgate when not in use.

Abstract: A vehicle closure member with an integrated step is provided for improving access to a vehicle cargo area. The vehicle closure member also includes an internal cavity, an orifice positioned in the internal cavity, and a track mechanism disposed in the internal cavity that is in alignment with the orifice. The track mechanism engages the step member which slideably extends through the orifice and pivots to a deployed position to provide a step for access to the vehicle cargo area. An interlock assembly can be provided to prevent closing of the vehicle closure member when the step member is in the deployed position.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are illustrated for accessing, extending and exiting a truck bed and having a pair of opposed end frame members (A) carried on opposed respective sides of the truck preferably on a truck having a tailgate. A transverse member(B) is substantially U-shaped and constructed of tubular frame members and carried in such a way that the legs (C) are pivotally carried between the upright frame members. A releasable fastening member (D) is provided for positioning the transverse member in upright position while stop member (E) limits downward pivotal movement of transverse member.

Abstract: A footboard which can be used in case of necessity by drawing out a footboard main body as a tread from a lower portion or a vicinity of the lower portion of a portion for getting on and off and then by lowering the footboard main body to an intermediate position of a height from a drawn out position to the ground below the footboard in order to make it extremely easy not only for general well-built adult men but also children, women, elderly people, people with leg or lumbar disabilities to get on and off a step portion and especially an automobile with a large vehicle height, called a van or a recreational vehicle, and having a door for getting on and off in a relatively high position. This is formed by assembling attachment members for attaching the footboard to the step portion, e.g.

Abstract: A ladder mounting mechanism is configured for mounting a ladder to a truck trailer. The truck trailer has at least one keeper member fixedly connected thereto. The ladder mounting mechanism includes a frame at least one moveable locking member moveably connected to the frame. The frame is adapted to be fixedly connected to the ladder. The moveable locking member is adapted for movement relative to the frame between a ladder-secured position and a ladder-unsecured position. In the ladder-secured position, the locking member engages the keeper member in a manner for securing the ladder to the truck trailer. In the ladder-unsecured position, the locking member is disengaged from the keeper member.

Abstract: The present invention provides an integrated tailgate for a vehicle having a planar cargo bed, the tailgate operable between a closed vertical position and an open horizontal position, and a structure slideably received by the tailgate extendable to a substantially horizontal position when the tailgate is in the open position, whereat the structure is rotateably operable between the horizontal position, an upwardly rotated substantially vertical position perpendicular to the open tailgate, and a downwardly rotated position a predetermined degree between zero and ninety degrees.

Abstract: A stowable step has a housing, a U-shaped step platform and a sliding member pivotally engaging the step platform. The sliding member is slidably mounted within the housing for reciprocating movement between a retracted stowed position wherein the platform extends into the housing and a deployed position wherein the platform can pivot relative to the sliding member to a substantially vertical position.

Abstract: A tailgate step apparatus including a tailgate with an inner edge and an outer edge, a first channel affixed within the tailgate so as to extend between the inner and outer edges, a second channel affixed within the tailgate so as to extend between the inner and outer edges in generally parallel spaced relationship to the first channel, a frame assembly slidably received within the tailgate between the first and second channels so as to be movable between a first position within the tailgate to a second position extending outwardly of the tailgate, and a step member pivotally connected to the frame so as to have a surface positioned outwardly of the outer edge of the tailgate when the frame assembly is in the second position. The step member is movable so as to assume a horizontal orientation when the frame assembly is in the second position. The frame assembly is retractable along the first and second channels so as to be received interior of the tailgate.

Abstract: A tailgate assembly for use with a motor vehicle of the type including a cab and a cargo body positioned rearwardly of the cab and including side walls and a floor coacting at the rear of the cargo body to define a tailgate opening into which the tailgate is fitted. The tailgate assembly includes an extender assembly including a bar positioned proximate an upper edge of the tailgate and a pair of post assemblies extending downwardly from the bar into the tailgate proximate respective side edges of the tailgate. Each post assembly includes a lower post member articulated to an upper post member which in turn is connected to the bar. The bar may be raised to a position above the upper edge of the tailgate by sliding the post assemblies upwardly within guide tubes provided in the tailgate whereby to provide further vertical restraint for loads carried by the vehicle.

Abstract: A extendable tailgate ladder assembly for providing improved accessibility for truck beds. The extendable tailgate ladder assembly includes a ladder, a pair of tracks, a pair of feet, a cover member, a plurality of first connection members and a plurality of second connection members.

Abstract: A universal, compact, truck tailgate ladder with support arms is disclosed, comprised of a folding ladder of otherwise conventional design, with upper leg members and lower leg members, and a series of parallel steps connecting each set of upper leg members and lower leg members. The present invention is designed to attach to the interior surface of a pick-up truck tailgate via a fastening means, such as bolts.

Abstract: A new ramp assembly for all-terrain vehicles for allowing for easy loading and unloading of an all-terrain vehicle from a pickup truck. The inventive device includes a housing dimensioned for positioning within a bed of a pickup truck. The housing has an open rear wall. A pair of support ramps are slidably received within the open rear wall of the housing. Each of the support ramps includes an inner segment and an outer segment. An outer end of the inner segment and an inner end of the outer segment have a hinge secured therebetween.

Abstract: A foldable ramp having a first, second and third rectangular sections contiguous with each other and defining a ramp path having longitudinal and transversal axes. A first hinge group is affixed to both the first and second sections and a second hinge group is affixed to both the second and third sections. The first hinge group has a first axis of rotation on the upper side of the ramp path and extending across the longitudinal axis, and a first rotational range of slightly more than 180.degree.. The second hinge group has a second axis of rotation on the under side of the ramp path and extending in a parallel alignment with the first axis of rotation, and a second rotational range of slightly less than 180.degree.. The first and second hinge groups each have a central hinge and outside hinges, and stoppers on the central hinges to limit the rotation of the central hinges a few degrees less that the rotational range of the outside hinges.

Abstract: A vehicle having a horizontal transport platform or bed with steps mounted within the horizontal platform. The vehicle comprises a horizontal platform supported three to four feet above ground by wheels. The platform is reinforced by longitudinal I-beams. In accordance with the present invention, a rectangular opening is provided at the rear of the platform. The opening is positioned between adjacent longitudinal I-beams. The opening contains one or more steps that descend from the level of the horizontal platform to just above ground level. The steps are within the perimeter of the platform. To maximize transport area on the horizontal platform, a cover is provided for the platform opening. The cover is attached by a hinge along one side of the rectangular opening in the horizontal platform.

Abstract: An improved auxiliary multiple step configuration for use on a truck having rigid step attached to the upper surface of the tailgate and a self storing step which retracts substantially into the tailgate when the gate is closed and deploys automatically when the tailgate is opened.

Abstract: An attachment for elongating a pickup truck bed storage area which can also serve as a replacement tailgate for the truck's factory tailgate or a tailgate for the extended area and further a ramp, or stairway for loading the pickup truck. The device is easily attached to the pickup truck bed with the truck's existing tailgate lowered and encloses an area of the bed over the tailgate. The rear end of the device serves as a tailgate and a ramp or a stairway, which can be unlatched and unfolded extending for easy loading of the truck storage area.

Abstract: An extendable support system having a plurality of support members and a plurality of pairs of spaced-apart side rails, each pair of which being affixed to one support member. Each of the support members move longitudinally relative to the other and include stop tabs which are configured to limit the longitudinal extension of the support system. The support members are L-shaped to add strength to the system as well as limit longitudinal retraction of the system. The extendable support system is attached to a platform by means of a pair of spaced-apart T-rails and includes extension means for increasing the angle of motion of a pivotal platform.

Abstract: A receiver hitch step attachment mounts to the existing receiver hitch of a pickup truck and supports a set of steps that are adjustable laterally and vertically. An auxiliary stabilizer leg is provided for engaging the ground beneath the attachment when the truck is parked in order to support the vehicle against rocking when weight is applied to the steps or when moving about in the camper.

Abstract: A apparatus adapted to be attached to an existing tailgate of a vehicle or to a custom tailgate recessed to accept the device comprises a housing assembly adapted to be mounted on the vehicle tailgate, a chassis assembly slidingly engaged with the housing assembly, and a step assembly rotatably connected to the chassis assembly whereby the chassis assembly can be moved through the housing assembly and rotated so that the step assembly can be rotated out of the chassis assembly.

Abstract: A tailgate step has a hinge assembly and a step assembly. One side of the hinge assembly attaches to the inside panel of the tailgate near its upper edge. The other side of the hinge assembly attaches to the step frame. In one form, Z pins connect the two sides of the hinge assembly. The step frame is U shaped where the bight of the U is the step portion. The tailgate step has a stored position against the inside panel of the tailgate and an in-use position across the tailgate edge and vertically downward when the tailgate is open.

Abstract: An elongated arrangement is secured to an inner surface of a tailgate of a truck in a parallel relation with the rear of the truck, the elongated arrangement having a pair of first members dispose coextensive with the elongated arrangement, equally spaced from and parallel to the inner surface of the tailgate and spaced from each other to form a slot in the elongated arrangement coextensive therewith; a ladder arrangement having a first portion disposed in a rotatable and slidable relation with the slot adjacent one end thereof and a second portion pivotably and removably connected to the other end of the first portion having a plurality of steps to permit easy ingress and egress to and from a bed of the truck when the ladder arrangement is in its use position; and a tie down arrangement disposed in a removable relation with the slot and at least two of the steps to hold the ladder arrangement when rotated from the use position to a storage position disposed adjacent the elongated arrangement and the inner su

Abstract: A folding step attachment made of lightweight tubular metal provides improved entry access into the bed area of a truck. The attachment is secured at its base to the interior surface of the truck tailgate. A frame coupled to the base unfolds downwardly from the tailgate to an operative position whereupon a step coupled to the frame unfolds into a horizontal position to accommodate a user's foot. The step is adjustable to a desired height above the ground. In the folded or stand-by position, the attachment consumes little space in the bed area. An angle member is provided between the attachment and the upper edge of the tailgate to protect the tailgate against denting.

Abstract: A tailgate for enclosing a pickup truck bed includes a sheet metal wall having upper and lower edges and opposite sides, and a stair with at least two steps integrally formed in the wall and extending between the opposite sides. Side walls are mounted on the opposite sides of the sheet metal wall. The lower edge of the tailgate includes a mount for mounting the tailgate to the pickup truck bed for pivotal motion between open and closed positions. A latch on the wall releasably secures the tailgate to the truck bed in the closed position. Flexible cables hold the tailgate in the open position with the steps horizontally orientated.

Abstract: A ladder assembly is mounted slidably and telescopingly within a tailgate portion of a truck bed to include a respective first and second ladder member extensibly mounted relative to the tailgate, and more specifically to a cavity therewithin, to provide ease of access to interiorly of the truck bed, with a handrail in operative association with the truck bed and tailgate for stability in use of the ladder organization.

Abstract: A step assembly (438) includes two step supporting members (444) which have proximal ends pivotally attached to the underside of a mounting bracket (440). The step supporting members (444) support a plurality of rungs (445). A step plate (446) is attached in cantilevered manner to each of the rungs (445) whereby a rear one of the step supporting members (444) is intermediate the step plate (446) and the front step supporting member. A transmission assembly is provided for causing distal ends of the step supporting members to contact the ground (G) and thereby acquire an extended, angularly inclined position. In one embodiment, the transmission assembly includes an actuator (470). In another embodiment, the transmission assembly includes a motor and cable assembly (472).

Abstract: A folding step system includes a base assembly with approximate and distal ends, a link assembly with base and step ends, and a step assembly with approximate and distal ends. A base hinge assembly hingedly connects the base proximate end and the link assembly base end for rotational movement about a transverse rotational axis through an arc of movement between a retracted position adjacent to the base assembly and an extended position extending from the proximate end thereof. A step hinge assembly hingedly connects the link assembly distal end and the step proximate end for rotational movement about a transverse rotational axis between a retracted position adjacent to the link assembly and an extended position extending from the step end thereof.

Abstract: An unfolding ladder assembly for attachment to a tailgate is disclosed. The assembly includes a pair of plates for attachment to the outside of a tailgate, the plates providing surfaces against which edges of side frame members are biased in deployed position. Pivot pins are connected to the plates in spaced-apart relation, the pins engaging slots inside members of a step supporting frame. The frame is movable from a forward, deployed position where the pins engage rear portions of the slots, and the upper edges of said frame members, which form an obtuse angle with respect to the length of the frame, are biased upward against the plate surfaces. The step is projected rearward and downward from the tailgate by this means. A lower step frame supporting a second, lower step is pivotally attached to the lower end of the upper step frame. Notches in the side members of the lower step frame have surfaces that engage the upper step and hold the lower step in position.

Abstract: A foldable step for a pickup truck end gate or tailgate. The step is formed by a plurality of step rails secured between parallel side bars or frame members. A pair of depending riser arms or links are suspended from a pair of horizontal end gate arms or links to position the step about half-way between a lowered tailgate and the ground. The end gate arms are secured to brackets which are mounted on the interior tailgate surface. A toggle or jack knife linkage extending betewen the step and the riser arms holds the step in a generally horizontal position. The entire assembly may be folded flat to lie against the inner surface of the tailgate, and the assembly is locked in place with a locking clip or strap. The folded step may be folded into and retained in a recess in the inner surface of the endgate.

Abstract: Tailgate apparatus for a pick-up truck comprising a frame assembly adapted to be mounted around the preexisting bumper of a vehicle after removal of the conventional tail gate. The assembly does not require removal of the truck bumper and maintains the visibility of the license plate. Lifting and raising of the tail gate is provided by spool wound flexible straps on each side powered by a geared motor. A drive shaft under the platform interconnecting the side housings is driven by the motor rotating a first spool in one of the housings so that the spools rotate together. The apparatus is light weight and reliable in operation.

Abstract: A collapsible step ladder assembly in combination with a panel of a vehicle such as a tail gate or bed of a pickup truck, having a foldable frame, at least one foldable step or platform, a pair of extension legs, and a pair of articulating joints for connecting said frame to the panel. Each foldable step comprises a platform connected to the respective arms, and a pair of leveling braces that are positioned and dimensioned to hold the platform in a substantially horizontal position when the step ladder is fully deployed between an upper and lower service. Said braces also allow the folding of the platform to a position substantially co-planar with the respective arms.

Abstract: This invention is a retractable step which can be either retrofitted to a standard pickup truck type tail gate or can be made into the tail gate during manufacture. In this latter case, the step is of the disappearing type and would not be visible except when extended and folded down to its operative or use position. The above is accomplished through a track and pivot arrangement with the retrofit version having a housing disposed thereover when in the retracted position.

Abstract: Upper and lower sectional doors of rectangular configuration are mounted within an aircraft fuselage door frame and hinged for pivoting about horizontal axes at the upper and lower horizontal edges of respective door sections. A step is mounted to the interior of the lower door for pivoting along one horizontal edge about a horizontal axis between a first position with the step flush with the door interior and a second position projecting generally at right angles thereto. A plurality of laterally slidable latch pins fixed to the lower door section along vertical side edges are projectable into holes within the fuselage doorframe through a linkage system coupled to a shaft pivotably mounting the step to the door. The latch pins are projected to latching position when the step is folded flush to the door and retracted to unlatched position by manual movement of the step to its projected position prior to opening the lower door.

Abstract: A recreational unit for a vehicle bed has two oppositely located cantilever outrigger units. Each cantilever outrigger unit includes a horizontal shelf slidably supported by the top of each vertical side wall of the vehicle bed and an upstanding shelf support attached to the shelf. A floor support member is located on the floor of the vehicle bed. The floor support member contains slots proximate each vertical side wall of the vehicle bed into which the bottom of the upstanding shelf support is received. The two outrigger units can be slid between a stored and an extended position. Thus, when each cantilever outrigger unit is deployed in the extended position, the combined action of the horizontal shelf resting on the vertical side wall of the vehicle bed and the abutment of the bottom of the upstanding shelf support against the edge of the slot forms a rigid cantilever type support for the cantilever outrigger unit.

Abstract: A rear door for an armored vehicle. The rear door includes an upper door half and a lower door half which are pivotally hinged to the rear wall of the vehicle and can be locked and made tight in the closed position. The lower door half is provided on its inner side with steps for getting into and out of the vehicle, and is held in its lowered open position via a chain pull, a cable line, or an arresting member. Each door half, via swivel levers fastened to the inner side of the door half, is pivotally mounted on a shaft which extends in the transverse direction of the vehicle and is supported in bearing housings which are rigidly arranged to the side of, and above and below, the door opening on the inner side of the rear wall of the vehicle. Each shaft includes a rotating rod and serves to aid the pivot movement during closing. The upper door half is movable by means of a swivel device which includes a push-pull rod and a lever, and can be arrested in its raised open position.