EV charge port weather shield patent filed by GM

General Motors (GM) has filed a patent application for an EV charge port weather shield. The application was assigned patent number US 2025/0026414 A1 with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and was published on January 23, 2025, says GM Authority, adding the GM patent filing was originally submitted on July 17, 2023, and lists Michigan-based John Kenneth Michie as the inventor.

The patent application describes a weather shield designed to protect an EV’s charge port from rain, snow, dirt, and debris while the vehicle is being charged outdoors.

“The shield ensures that the charging process remains efficient and safe, even in challenging weather conditions,” says GM Authority.

It says the weather shield includes a base structure with two main surfaces – one facing outward and the other facing inward toward the vehicle.

“The base features an opening that aligns with the charge port, allowing a connector to pass through and connect securely.

“The shield also incorporates a frame with multiple walls that extend outward from the base. These walls form a cup-like enclosure around the charge port, offering added protection from weather exposure.

“Some configurations of the shield also include specific angles and distances for the walls to optimise coverage while ensuring easy access for charging devices.”

Traditional EV charge port designs usually rely on simple covers or doors to protect the port.

“However, these can leave the port exposed when charging, increasing the risk of damage or inefficiency caused by certain weather conditions,” says GM Authority.

“The design described in this GM patent application goes a step further by providing a shield that remains in place during charging, creating a more robust barrier against environmental factors. Additionally, this design appears to include features for aligning the connector with the port, simplifying the connection process and potentially improving durability.

“By preventing debris or moisture from entering the port, the shield helps maintain the long-term reliability of the vehicle’s charging system.

“Furthermore, the added alignment features could reduce wear and tear on the port and connector, extending their lifespan as well.”