US Patent 11772578 Plastic vehicle body components and related attachment method

A vehicle assembly includes a first body component and a second body component. The first body component has an exterior surface and an interior hidden surface, where the exterior surface has in part an aesthetic finish. The first body component defines a first connecting portion having a rib secured by the interior surface. The rib has a first opening formed therethrough. The second body component has an outward extended second connecting portion. A base wall of the second connecting portion has a second opening formed therethrough. The base wall abuts the rib with the second opening aligned with the first opening. A fastener is inserted through the first and second openings from within the second connecting portion.