Feature · 2 min read
Electric Tailgate Explained
Opens and closes the boot at the push of a button — or a wave of your foot.
What is an Electric Tailgate?
An electric tailgate (sometimes called a powered boot) raises and lowers the rear door using motors instead of muscle.
How does it work?
Two electric struts replace the conventional gas struts on each side of the tailgate. A small controller drives them up or down when you press the button on the key, on the boot itself, or — on hands-free versions — when you wave a foot under the rear bumper.
What does it feel like?
Hands full of shopping? Wave your foot, the boot rises silently, and you load up without putting anything down.
Benefits
- ✓Easier loading with full hands
- ✓Useful for shorter drivers who can't easily reach a high tailgate
- ✓Many systems remember a custom 'open height' for low garages
- ✓Automatic obstacle detection on the way down
Limitations
Motors and sensors are expensive to replace if they fail. The hands-free 'kick' sensor sometimes triggers when you don't want it to.
Heads up: Carautonomy is for general guidance only. Always check your vehicle handbook for model-specific details and limitations.