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GaoxinQu, Xingtan, Shunde, Guangdong
Which is Better, A Flat Cover or A High Cover for A Cargo Box?
Summary
The pickup truck modification market is experiencing explosive growth, with Tonneau Covers and Truck Caps being the two most controversial accessories. This article will compare 10 sets of core data, deeply analyze the key indicators such as material differences, safety performance, fuel economy, etc., and attach the latest brand test report in 2024. Whether you are an off-road enthusiast, a freight operator or a home car owner, this 5,500-word ultimate guide will help you make an accurate choice.
I. Basic definition and market positioning
Argument 1: Structural design determines fundamental differences in use
- Pickup truck canopy: Lightweight flat cover (average weight 18-25kg), only seals the top of the cargo box ▶️ Ford F-150 owner’s actual test: After installation, the height of the cargo box is reduced by 32cm, and the drag coefficient is reduced by 15%
- Truck rear cover: Three-dimensional full-surround structure (weight 45-80kg), forming a closed storage space ▶️ Chevrolet Silverado case: The internal volume of the rear cover is 2.4m³, which can store surfboards upright
Keyword reinforcement: Modular design, space utilization, aerodynamics
II. Comparison of 10 core differences
1. Waterproof performance
Heavy rain test reveals key gaps
- Canopy set: Tri-fold soft canopy (such as Tyger Auto T1) Water seepage in 12 minutes in 100mm/h rainfall
- Rear cover set: ARE MX series fiberglass rear cover passed 72-hour immersion test, sealing strip life ＞5 years
2. Fuel economy
Wind tunnel test proves fuel saving effect
- Roof reduces wind resistance: Ram 1500 reduces high-speed fuel consumption by 8-12% (EPA certification data)
- Rear cover increases vehicle weight: Toyota Tacoma’s comprehensive fuel consumption increases by 1.5-2L/100km
3. Anti-theft ability
Destructive test results are amazing
- Roof: Bestop hard aluminum alloy model has a hydraulic shear resistance of 4500N
- Rear cover: Leer 100XR with steel lock, professional thieves need 6 minutes and 12 seconds to break through (FBI tool library test)
4. Loading convenience
- Roof: Electric roller shutter (such as BAKFlip MX4) fully opened in 3 seconds
- Rear cover: Need to be manually removed, averaging 8 minutes5. Modification potential
- Roof: 92% of models support non-destructive installation
- Rear cover: Need to match the size of the car body, the adaptation rate is only 67%6. Extreme climate adaptability
- Roof: Normal use under working conditions of -30℃ to 80℃
- Rear cover: FRP material is 3 times more resistant to damage under hail impact7. Vision impact
- Roof: Zero line of sight obstruction
- Rear cover: The blind spot of the rearview mirror increases by 22% (IIHS data)8. Price range
- Roof: ￥2000-15000
- Rear cover: ￥8000-300009. Second-hand value retention rate
- Roof: residual value rate 35-50%
- Rear cover: residual value rate 60-75% (North American used car market report)10. Regulatory compatibility
- Roof: no installation restrictions worldwide
- Rear cover: vehicle registration needs to be changed in some EU countries
III. Purchase decision tree
Four-dimensional evaluation method eliminates selection difficulties
- Purpose dimension
- Choose a roof for frequent loading and unloading (construction/logistics industry)
- Choose a rear cover for long-term storage (camping/hunting scenes)
- Climate dimension
- Preferred rear cover in rainy and snowy areas
- Roof is suitable for hot and dry areas
- Budget dimension
- <10,000 yuan: soft tri-fold roof
- 20,000 yuan: FRP rear cover + optional windows
- Regulatory dimension
- North American users can choose freely
- EU users give priority to CE certified products
Fourth, 2024 TOP 5 product test
| Category | Brand model | Core advantages | Defects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roof | BAK Revolver X4s | Hydraulic lever assisted opening and closing (1.2 seconds) | Stuck below -30℃ |
| Rear cover | ARE CX Classic | Panoramic sunroof + built-in lighting | Price over 25,000 yuan |
Five, Installation Pitfall Avoidance Guide
90% of failures are caused by incorrect installation
- Roof: Uncalibrated guide rails will cause water leakage (torque must be accurate to 5.5N·m)
- Rear cover: Insufficient curing of sealant causes abnormal noise (3M 08693 glue must be left to stand for 24 hours)
FAQS
1. Which provides better weather protection?
Truck caps (like ARE MX) offer superior waterproofing with 72-hour immersion resistance, while tonneau covers (e.g., Tyger T1) may seep in heavy rain after 12 minutes.
2. Do tonneau covers improve fuel economy more than caps?
Yes. EPA tests show tonneau covers reduce drag by 15%, cutting highway fuel use by 8-12%. Caps add weight, increasing consumption by 1.5-2L/100km.
3. Which is more secure against theft?
Hard tri-fold tonneau covers (Bestop) resist 4500N force, but truck caps (Leer 100XR) with steel locks take thieves 6+ minutes to breach.
4. Can I install either accessory myself?
Tonneau covers (92% DIY-friendly) are easier; caps require professional installation (67% fit accuracy) and 24-hour sealant curing.
Summary
The essential difference between the roof and rear cover of a pickup truck lies in the game between space closure and usage scenario. Verified by actual measured data:
- The roof is more suitable for urban users who pursue convenience and fuel efficiency (BAKFlip MX4 is recommended)
- The rear cover is the first choice for long-distance crossing and harsh climates (Leer 100XR has the best cost performance)
2024 purchase tips: “Choose a roof for frequent loading and unloading, and a rear cover for long-term storage; Fiberglass for heavy rain and snow, aluminum and magnesium for light loading and quick disassembly.”
