Tech: Programmable Liftgate on new GM Vehicles

Ever opened the liftgate on your SUV or wagon, only to hear the crunch when it hits your garage door or ceiling?  GM heard that noise too, and in an announcement today, has seemingly solved the problem.  Their solution is to use a knob in the overhead console to control the height.  Once you have the height to your liking, there is a button built into the liftgate which sets the height.

According to GM, the programmable liftgate is not available on the Equinox’s main competitors, the Ford Escape, Hyundai Santa Fe and the Toyota Rav4.  The pictured vehicle is the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, but the feature is available on some of GM’s other vehicles, namely the 2010 GMC Terrain and 2010 Cadillac SRX.  GM also says it is standard on the 2010 Cadillac CTS Wagon.

It’s definitely good to see features like this showing up, but why has it taken so long?  Parents with kids and groceries in their vehicle should definitely be opting for the programmable liftgate, not to mention anyone who does outside sales and has to get samples from their crossover or SUV while parked in a garage, many of which have low ceilings.

by John Suit

Source: GM