Patent ID: 7073837

Claim:
A multi-purpose tailgate for a vehicle having a body, the tailgate having a top region, a bottom region, and opposed side regions, the tailgate comprising: a multiple link mechanism operatively attaching the tailgate to the body, the multiple link mechanism adapted to articulate the tailgate from a closed position into a first open position and a second open position vertically spaced apart from the first open position; a set of opposed spring assemblies operatively connecting the link mechanism to the vehicle body; at least two opposed cables operatively attaching the vehicle to the link mechanism and to the tailgate, the cables adapted to support a predetermined weight; a latch mechanism operatively defined in the opposed sides of the tailgate and in respective adjacent areas of the vehicle body, the latch mechanism adapted to selectively attach the tailgate to the vehicle body; and a second latch mechanism operatively disposed in the link mechanism and in respective adjacent areas of the vehicle body, the second latch mechanism adapted to selectively allow the link mechanism to articulate so as to move the tailgate between the at least two open positions; wherein the first open position is adapted for access to a cargo area; and wherein the second open position is adapted for use as a step into the cargo area.