hayons hybrides

18:58 Aug 16, 2010 

I think it was Ford (but can't be positive) who had a US station wagon (estate wagon), with a tailgate that would open to the side (as a door), for allowing passengers to enter/exit the rear-facing 3rd row seat. It could also open down, as a tailgate, when the rear seat was folded down, to allow easy access for cargo loading.

This one is a truck/lorry, but see http://www.ronstrailers.com/dumptrailers.html
"3 way double action tailgate with chains"

18:52 Aug 16, 2010 

I thought it might be a hatchback or tailgate which would open on a vertical axis and an horizontal one. The more i thought of it and the less I remembered any such system. However, it seems that some hybrid vehicles have special hatchback, which is why i suggested a different reading of the phrase... To be explored further.

18:37 Aug 16, 2010 

about a double-acting tailgate. Seems to be a pretty common spec feature. It can open in a variety of ways, depending on the vehicle and the usage.

18:36 Aug 16, 2010 

it is meant to say hayons, hybrides or tailgates for hybrid vehicles

18:27 Aug 16, 2010 

Collins Robert gives "tailgate"
Larousse says
Porte de panneau arrière d'une automobile (berline, limousine ou break) s'ouvrant de bas en haut ou de haut en bas.