BMW has patented a new way to make better use of sedan trunk space: a smaller storage compartment built into the trunk lid. The design could provide convenient storage for small items while also keeping a vehicle’s electric charger connected and ready to use.
BMW’s Second Trunk Design
The invention essentially adds a smaller trunk to the vehicle’s trunk lid. Rather than accessing it from inside the main cargo area, the trunk lid would open in two different ways.
One opening would expose the smaller compartment by lifting only the trunk-lid skin. The space would be designed to store the vehicle’s charging cable and could also make charging easier and cleaner.
The concept addresses a common problem with small items in a trunk. While larger cargo can stay in place, smaller objects can move around during stops, starts and turns. BMW’s design would provide a dedicated space to keep those items contained.
How the BMW Charging System Would Work
The mini trunk would be large enough to hold a Level 1 charging brick, which is commonly stored under the cargo floor in vehicles equipped for Level 1 charging.
BMW’s design would go further by including a connection inside the compartment for the charge handle, the part that plugs into the vehicle. That connection would remain attached to the car’s charge port.
Instead of removing the entire Level 1 charger and connecting it to the vehicle and a wall outlet, the charger could remain attached to the car. The driver would only need to take the wall-plug end out and connect it to an outlet before closing the outer trunk.
That arrangement would keep most of the cable inside the vehicle. The design could make the charger harder to steal and quicker to use while also helping keep the charging setup protected from rain.
The Trunk Would Restrict Access During Charging
BMW’s design would also monitor the charging session to prevent the full trunk from being opened while the vehicle is charging. If someone attempted to open the trunk during charging, only the outer lid would open, providing access to the smaller compartment.
The system could be useful for EV owners who regularly carry their charging cable. However, the design would be an expensive and complicated solution, and the article notes that most EV owners do not carry their charger with them. Instead, they charge at home or use fast-charging infrastructure when away from home.
The concept could make more sense in Europe, where bringing your own charger is more common for roadside EV charging because standard outlets provide 240-volt power.
The Extra Storage Could Serve Other Uses
BMW’s smaller trunk would not be limited to charging equipment. It could also hold conventional cargo that drivers want to keep within easy reach.
Examples mentioned include the small tool kit supplied with BMW vehicles, a snow scraper or other items. A foam insert would help prevent objects from rattling inside the compartment.
How BMW’s Idea Compares With Other EV Storage
Small storage compartments for charger cables are already common in EVs, particularly vehicles without a proper frunk. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, for example, has a small storage area under the hood where the charger can be kept.
That arrangement still requires opening the hood, which remains open to the world from underneath. BMW’s own new i3 also has a similar storage area.
BMW’s patented approach combines easy-access storage protected from the weather with a system designed to simplify Level 1 charging. The compartment could also be used for regular storage, including in non-EVs, or for EV owners who do not plan to carry the charging brick with them.
