General Motors Applies for Patent on Car Door Panel Storage System

According to foreign media reports, General Motors (GM) has filed a patent application for a vehicle trim panel storage system. The patent application has been submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) with the patent number US 2025/0229719 A1, and the submission date is January 17, 2024. The application document was published on July 17, 2025, and the inventors are three engineers, including Alejandro Perez Ruiz, Minerva Perez, and Javier Garfias.

Image source: USPTO

General Motors' patent describes a vehicle storage system that aims to replace the traditional fixed cup holders and map pockets commonly found on many car doors. The system is designed to provide customizable storage solutions, allowing passengers to flexibly store items according to their personal needs. The design is not limited to a fixed number of cup holders or a single flat pocket but utilizes a series of slots, ribs, and fasteners to create a variety of pockets and connection points to securely accommodate various items.

Image source: USPTO

The core of the General Motors system is the integrated guide groove within the interior panel. The guide groove has two opposing flanges, each extending ribs. These ribs form a series of slots and recesses along the car door. Passengers can insert removable fasteners or accessories into the slots, which lock into place due to the keyed sections and rib design. The fasteners include a connecting part, such as a hook or connector, which can be used to secure accessories like cup holders, storage bags, or other storage devices. Because the guide groove system is modular, items can be moved, replaced, or adjusted along the slots according to the passenger’s preference.

Image source: USPTO

General Motors' system is unique in overcoming the limitations of fixed door storage systems commonly found in various car models today. For instance, a passenger might want more cup holders during one trip, while on another trip, they might need extra space for phone storage. This panel system allows for these changes without tools or permanent modifications. It also makes more efficient use of door space by providing multiple storage pockets, whereas traditional systems typically have only one storage pocket.