A tonneau cover, commonly referred to simply as a tonneau, is a protective covering for the bed of a pickup truck. It serves multiple purposes, including protecting cargo from theft, weather elements, and preventing items from shifting during transportation. The term “tonneau” has an interesting origin and has evolved over time alongside the development of automobiles.
The word “tonneau” is of French origin, originally referring to the rear seating compartment of a car, typically an open vehicle. In the early days of automobiles, cars often had an open rear compartment, which could be covered with a fabric or leather covering to protect passengers from the weather. This covering was known as the “tonneau cover.”
As automobiles evolved, particularly with the advent of pickup trucks, the term “tonneau cover” began to be used to describe a protective covering for the cargo bed of trucks. These covers serve similar purposes to their historical counterparts, protecting cargo from the elements and providing security against theft.
Early speed chasers and racing enthusiasts played a significant role in popularizing the term “tonneau” in automotive circles. Racing cars of the early 20th century often featured streamlined designs with a single-seat cockpit and a rear compartment covered by a tonneau cover. These covers helped improve aerodynamics and reduce drag, contributing to faster speeds on the race track.
Common Types of Tonneau Covers Include:
Soft Roll-Up Covers: Made from durable vinyl or fabric material, these covers roll up for easy access to the truck bed.
Hard Folding Covers: Constructed from rigid materials like aluminum or fiberglass, these covers fold open in sections, providing both security and versatility.
Retractable Covers: These covers retract into a canister located near the cab of the truck, offering complete bed access when needed.
Hard Roll-Up Covers: Similar to soft roll-up covers but with the added durability and security of hard materials like aluminum.
Hinged Covers: These covers open on hinges, providing full bed access while maintaining security and weather protection when closed.
Here’s a Summary of the Benefits of Tonneau Covers:
Safe Transport: Tonneau covers provide protection for whatever you’re hauling, shielding it from various weather elements like rain, snow, and wind.
Improved Gas Mileage: The aerodynamic design of tonneau covers reduces air drag, leading to better gas mileage, potentially saving up to 5-10% compared to an open bed.
Increased Security: Tonneau covers keep your cargo out of sight and often come with locking mechanisms, enhancing security against theft.
Organization: By keeping items in place, tonneau covers prevent shifting during transit, ensuring that everything stays intact.
Value: Tonneau covers help save money on gas, protect the truck bed from damage, and maintain the vehicle’s resale value by preserving the bed’s condition.
Overall, tonneau covers have become essential accessories for pickup truck owners. Investing in a tonneau cover not only enhances the appearance of your truck but also offers practical benefits that can save money and preserve the vehicle’s value over time.
