Patent attributes
A tailgate system for a vehicle comprises a tailgate and a support system. The tailgate includes a movable tailgate portion movably connected to the tailgate and configured to cover an access opening in the tailgate. The support system is selectively operable between a connected state connected to both the tailgate and the movable tailgate portion and a disconnected state. The support system in the connected state is configured to support the movable tailgate portion in a step position pivoted downwardly from the tailgate in an open position thereof to provide a step. The support system in the disconnected state is configured to allow the movable tailgate portion to pivot downwardly from the tailgate in a closed position to the downwardly extending open position. The angle of pivotal movement of the movable tailgate portion relative to the tailgate is greater in the downwardly extending open position than in the step position.
