Top 10 Pickup Truck Innovations

3. Bed Steps

Ford started the trend, and Chevy has now jumped on the bandwagon, with both brands now offering steps specifically designed for easy access to the bed.

In Ford’s case, the step is pulled out from inside the tailgate, while a grab handle is raised from on top of the folded down tailgate. Ford also offers small side steps that are located just in front of the rear wheels.

Chevrolet takes a simpler approach by using a corner step that is integrated right into the bumper. This was first seen on the Chevy Avalanche, but it didn’t last. Now, Chevy has resurrected the bumper step for its new 2014 Silverado.

Unloading items such as bricks or lumber out of the bed of a pickup is made infinitely more convenient by a bed step, and it helps to save the knees.