As the automotive industry shifts toward full automation, the electric tailgate is emerging as a highly sought-after feature. But what is a powered tailgate exactly? It is a motorized system that allows drivers to open or close the rear hatch automatically. At its heart lies the powered tailgate motor, the critical actuator responsible for seamless, hands-free cargo access.

What is a Powered Tailgate Motor?

A powered tailgate motor is an advanced electromechanical drive unit engineered to provide the high torque and precise linear motion required to lift a vehicle's rear hatch. As modern SUVs and MPVs feature increasingly heavy rear doors, an electric liftgate on a car powered by this compact, high-performance motor is becoming popular.

Typically, this motor is integrated directly within the electric tailgate strut assembly—often referred to as a spindle drive—located on one or both sides of the hatch. In some vehicle architectures, the motor is housed within the vehicle's D-pillar or the inner panel near the hinges.

Key Technical Components

To meet the rigorous demands of the automotive environment, a powered tailgate system comprises several integrated components:

l The Motor: Usually a DC motor (brushed or brushless). Modern 12V, 24V, 36V, and 48V BLDC motors are favored by Tier-1 suppliers for their thermal efficiency and quiet operation.

l The Gearbox: A planetary gearbox is almost universally preferred for its ability to provide high reduction ratios and massive torque within a narrow cylindrical footprint.

l The Drive Mechanism: A threaded spindle (lead screw) converts the motor’s rotary motion into linear force, extending or retracting the strut.

l The Control Unit (ECU): The "brain" that regulates current, monitors motor speed, and ensures synchronized motion.

l Sensors: Hall effect sensors monitor the motor’s position and speed, while pressure or current sensors provide essential obstacle detection data.

Working Principle of a Powered Tailgate Motor

1. User Activation

The process begins with a trigger signal. This can originate from a key fob, a dashboard button, or a foot-activated "kick sensor" located under the rear bumper. These sensors may use microwave or ultrasonic technology to detect specific gestures, enabling true hands-free operation.

2. Electrical Control and Motor Start

Upon receiving the signal, the ECU verifies safety conditions like the vehicle speed. Once cleared, it directs current to the DC motor. The motor begins rotating in a specific direction—forward for opening or reverse for closing—initiating the mechanical cycle.

3. Mechanical Motion Transfer

As the motor spins, its rotational power passes through a gear reducer. This amplification of torque is necessary to overcome the weight of the steel and glass hatch. The torque then rotates the threaded spindle inside the strut. As the spindle spins, it drives a threaded nut linearly, causing the strut to telescopically extend or retract, thereby lifting or lowering the tailgate.

4. Safety Monitoring and Obstacle Detection

While the tailgate is in motion, the ECU continuously analyzes Hall sensor pulses and motor current. If the system detects a sudden spike in resistance (indicating an obstruction like a person or luggage), the "anti-pinch" technology triggers an immediate stop or reversal of the motor to prevent injury.

5. Soft Close and Stop

To ensure a premium user experience and prevent mechanical wear, the system utilizes a "soft-close" function. As the tailgate approaches the latch, the ECU modulates the motor speed (often using pulse width modulation) to slow it down. Finally, a power latch or cinching motor pulls the tailgate into the fully locked position to ensure a tight seal.

Picture shown: Low-noise, high-torque tailgate lift motor

Key Benefits of a Quality Tailgate Motor

For OEMs and ODM partners, selecting a high-grade motor isn't just about movement; it’s about brand perception and safety.

1. Convenience and Hands-Free Operation

A quality power tailgate motor system allows for effortless access to the cargo area, which is invaluable when a user's hands are full of groceries or luggage. Advanced systems also include height memory features, allowing the motor to stop at a programmed height to avoid hitting low garage ceilings—a feature that requires high-precision motor feedback.

2. Safety and Protection

Reliable motors equipped with rapid-response sensors significantly reduce the risk of injury. In contrast to manual hydraulic struts that can fail and allow a heavy hatch to fall unexpectedly, a powered system with a quality gear-holding mechanism ensures the tailgate remains securely in position at any angle.

3. Durability and Comfort

Premium motors, especially those utilizing planetary gears, offer superior Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) performance. You may look for operating noise levels below 50 dB to ensure the vehicle feels sophisticated and quiet during operation.

How to Choose the Right Powered Tailgate Motor

When sourcing motors for industrial-scale automotive production, manufacturers must evaluate several technical benchmarks:

1. Torque and Load Capacity: The motor must handle the heavy weight of reinforced steel or aluminum hatches, especially in the SUV and MPV segments.

2. Compatibility and Integration: The actuator must be compact enough to fit within standard pillar dimensions while maintaining I/O compatibility with existing vehicle CAN bus systems.

3. Noise Level and Operating Smoothness: For high-end applications, a planetary gear motor is non-negotiable. It distributes the load across multiple contact points, ensuring a stable and quiet transmission.

4. Reliability and Environmental Resistance: Automotive components face extreme conditions. Motors should feature a high IP rating (sealing against dust and moisture) and be tested to operate reliably from -40°C to 85°C.

5. Brand Support and After-sales: Partnering with a manufacturer that provides detailed technical documentation and IATF 16949-certified quality control is critical for long-term project success.

Power Motor: Your Reliable Car Motor Manufacturer Partner

For over 20 years, Power Motor has been at the forefront of motion solution innovation. As a leading manufacturer with over 300 patents, Power Motor specializes in delivering customized, high-performance motors for the most demanding automotive applications.

We offer specialized planetary gear motors that are designed to meet the high torque and compact dimensions required for automotive liftgate systems. Furthermore, we understand the nuances of the automotive sector, which is why our automotive precision solutions are optimized for low NVH and extreme environmental durability.

Whether you are an OEM looking for a standard 48V BLDC solution or an ODM requiring customized reduction ratios and encoder integration, Power Motor provides the technical expertise and manufacturing scale to bring your vision to life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the powered tailgate motor is a defining feature of modern vehicle convenience. By choosing a partner like Power Motor, you ensure that your electric tailgate system is powered by reliability, precision, and world-class engineering. Contact us today to explore how our motor technology can elevate your next automotive project!