Hidden Side Steps for SUV

-- Steady & Reliable Manufacturer --

Technical Overview

The core technical brief for the Hidden Side Step is centered on the compactness of the stowed profile. This is achieved through a proprietary, low-profile linkage assembly that minimizes the vertical dimension of the mechanism when folded. The step surface itself is often thinner and contoured to the vehicle's rocker panel, creating a near-invisible integration when retracted.

The system's motors are housed in ultra-slim, linear enclosures, allowing them to fit within the limited space behind the body panel. Software protocols are tuned for a quick, linear deployment path that avoids protruding outwards before moving down, ensuring operation within tighter parking spaces without contacting adjacent objects.

Introduction

The Hidden Side Step is the answer for SUV owners and manufacturers who prioritize the clean, unencumbered side profile of their vehicle. This technology ensures that the vehicle maintains its original design purity and ground clearance, only revealing the step when the door is opened. It is a subtle enhancement that delivers utility without aesthetic compromise.

Bohai Auto Tech has invested in specialized stamping and forming equipment to produce the unique, contoured panels required for this highly discrete integration. Our expertise in fitting these mechanisms to the tight tolerances of high-end models like the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Porsche Cayenne ensures minimal visual footprint and maximum functional efficiency.

Applications

Aesthetic-Driven Vehicles: Primary application for luxury and performance SUVs (e.g., Lamborghini Urus, Mercedes-Benz G63-AMG) where the visible presence of a step is often undesirable.
Urban Driving Environments: The discrete profile protects the mechanism from damage caused by curbs and parking blocks common in city driving.
Show Vehicles & Custom Builds: Preferred by modifiers and designers who seek a high-tech, functional accessory that does not interfere with the vehicle's exterior lines.
Reduced Drag Requirement: For vehicles where maximizing aerodynamic performance is a factor, the fully hidden design minimizes air turbulence under the vehicle.

Specification

Stowed Profile	<20mm Below Rocker Panel
Linkage Type	Ultra-Low Profile, Precision Articulation
Surface Finish	OEM-Grade E-Coat + Powder Coat
Deployment Path	Linear Downward Motion (Minimized Outward Swing)
Material (Support Arms)	Cold-Rolled Carbon Steel (Optimized Thickness)
Design Philosophy	Zero-Compromise Ground Clearance
Motor Enclosure	Slim-Line, Integrated Aluminum Housing

Common Questions

Q: Does the hidden step affect the vehicle's wash clearance?
A: No, when fully stowed, the mechanism is protected behind the rocker panel and does not interfere with automated car wash equipment or standard undercarriage cleaning procedures.

Q: Is there any risk of the steps freezing in the stowed position during winter?
A: Components are treated with anti-corrosion coatings and the mechanism uses minimal surface area, reducing the buildup of ice. Furthermore, the high-torque motor is designed to break through light icing for reliable function.

Q: How is the ultra-low profile mechanism maintained?
A: Maintenance is minimal. The key linkage points are designed to be self-cleaning. Routine checks are limited to ensuring the mounting points remain secure and the visible surface is free of excessive dirt buildup.

Core Features

Near-Invisible Integration: The mechanism and platform stow almost entirely behind the vehicle's body, maintaining the factory look and feel when the doors are closed.
Maximum Ground Clearance: Unlike fixed or semi-retractable steps, the hidden design ensures the vehicle's original ground clearance is completely unaffected.
Controlled Movement Profile: Engineered deployment path reduces the outward projection during the cycle, safer for tight garages or parallel parking.
Optimized for Performance SUVs: The lightweight, slim design is perfectly suited for high-performance vehicles where every addition to weight or drag is carefully managed.

Manufacturing & Customization

Manufacturing the hidden step requires the highest precision in forming and welding. We employ Hydroforming and Advanced Stamping techniques to create the complex, contoured surfaces that perfectly match the subtle curves of the SUV rocker panels.

Customization Opportunities: The 'hidden' aspect opens up unique branding and design opportunities:

Contour Matching: Custom tooling to match the exact rocker panel profile of specialized vehicle editions or concept models.
Interior Lighting Integration: Utilizing the minimal clearance to integrate a subtle, diffused LED lighting strip that activates upon deployment, focusing light onto the step area.
Bespoke Motor Calibration: Adjusting the deployment angle and speed to ensure it aligns with the vehicle's specific body cladding or wheel well dimensions.

Material Selection

To achieve the slim profile, High-Yield Strength, Cold-Rolled Carbon Steel is used for the support arms, allowing for a thinner cross-section while retaining necessary structural integrity.

The visible step platform often features a unique combination of Extruded Aluminum with a Thin-Gauge Stainless Steel Overlay, providing a durable, high-end appearance that resists scratching and wear from footwear.

For the motor and transmission, Precision Die-Cast Zinc Alloys are sometimes used for the housing, providing a high-strength, compact enclosure that meets the size constraints of the hidden design.

about Bohai

R&D and manufacturing of mid-to-high-end SUV electric pedals.

Bohai Automotive Technology (Zhejiang Huzhou) Co., Ltd. was established in 2014. It is a technology-based enterprise specializing in R&D China Hidden Side Steps for SUV Manufacturers and Wholesale Hidden Side Steps for SUV Suppliers The company is located on the southern bank of the beautiful Taihu Lake in the hinterland of the Yangtze River Golden Triangle-Changxing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province. It is about 150 kilometers away from Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, Suzhou, Wuxi and other large and medium cities.

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