These aftermarket accessories are additions to the vehicle’s body, typically mounted beneath the doors along the rocker panels. Their purpose is to provide an intermediate step between the ground and the vehicle’s interior. Examples include tubular steps, running boards, and power-deployable steps, each offering varying levels of assistance and aesthetic appeal.
These additions can significantly improve accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges or for children entering and exiting the elevated cab. Furthermore, they offer protection to the vehicle’s lower body panels from road debris and potential damage. Historically, similar devices have evolved from simple running boards on early automobiles to more sophisticated and integrated designs.
