[RahulNagaraj]

Ford is said to have patented an innovative exhaust system, allowing the tip to either extend or retract depending on the need. This new electrically powered exhaust outlet has been designed with the aim of improving the vehicle's off-roading capabilities by increasing the departure angle.



As per reports, the device consists of an exhaust tip, an exhaust pipe and a power-operated module. In regular driving conditions, the exhaust tips poke out from under the rear bumper. However, before off-roading, the exhaust tip can be retracted making the rear bumper the lowest hanging part of the vehicle. Reports also suggested that the system works even when the car is moving.



Having said that, there is no word on how the system would be integrated into the car. Ford could introduce a dedicated button on the central console, or integrate it on the infotainment system. The retractable operation could also be automated whenever the car is shifted to the off-road mode.

Ford is yet to officially comment on the patent filing. However, considering these are just patent images, there is no guarantee that the American carmaker will actually introduce the new system in its cars.

Source: CarBuzz

Link to Team-BHP news

[Everlearner]

We have had retractable door handles, touch screens, head lights (though obsolete now), even steerings and now we have retractable exhaust.

What next, retractable wheels?

Though to be honest, retractable exhaust seems to serve a useful purpose

[gkveda]

They have retracted their entire business operations from India. So, I am not surprised if they have retractable silencer now.

Jokes apart, I don't see any real justification for this invention and patent. If there is really some space to pull the silencer inside or upside (to increase departure angle or GC), why can't they design it to fix it at that level? What is the advantage of hanging it at low level /outside and pulling it up /inside only during off-roading?