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- Future Stellantis electric vehicles may include a tank turn capability
- Rivian ultimately decided against implementing tank turns
- The electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class is capable of performing a tank turn
In a move similar to several other automotive companies, Stellantis aims to patent an electric vehicle tank-steer system designed for off-road applications, enabling vehicles to rotate in place without any forward motion.
A patent application detailing this innovation was published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on July 25, having been submitted by Stellantis earlier in 2023. The application describes a mechanical differential that allows the wheels on each axle to spin in opposite directions to execute the tank turn. This system is meant to function with electric vehicles equipped with a single motor per axle.
Stellantis tank turn patent image
While tanks achieve turning by braking tracks on one side, Stellantis proposes using a gearbox to rotate the axle half shafts in different directions. This gearbox would connect to an electric motor, with a separate assembly on each axle, allowing power to be directed to all four wheels.
The tank turn feature could be activated through a touchscreen or using steering-wheel paddles or buttons, according to the patent filing. The company has also outlined a method for operating the tank steer; the driver turns the steering wheel to select a direction while using the accelerator and brake pedals to initiate and halt the turn.
Stellantis tank turn patent image
It remains uncertain whether Stellantis will proceed with bringing this feature into production. Should this technology come to fruition, Stellantis would join Mercedes-Benz, which offers a similar capability called G-Turn on its electric G-Class. On the other hand, Rivian abandoned its Tank Turn feature due to environmental concerns, as performing such maneuvers can damage the ground on loose surfaces. Attempting this on pavement could also lead to tire wear.
Meanwhile, BMW is working on a quad-motor EV powertrain that could facilitate tank turns, but it plans to prioritize performance over flashy features like this, along with others like the CrabWalk function found in the GMC Hummer EV and Sierra EV. A patent application from Ford in 2022 hinted at a novel steering feature for its EV lineup, but there have been no updates regarding that since.
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