Did you ever wonder why some semis (as seen in great numbers on the interstate) have rear doors that look like flexible metal stamped in a diamond pattern?
Installed where it is, it can’t be for enhanced wind resistance, my go-to for all other truck-design elements. Is it a branding thing? No, apparently this “diamond pattern stainless steel door skin” has functional attributes:
- Reducing sunlight/headlight glare (for the drivers behind)
- Being easy to clean
- Resisting corrosion
Did you ever wonder why not all semis have this add-on, as shown, for instance, by the other truck in the photo? Follow the money. The skin itself costs from $800 to $1,000/truck – I’m assuming these are USD – and usually comes in a package of trim upgrades running between $3,000 and $4,000/truck.