Electric Tonneau Covers - Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I buy an electric tonneau cover rather than any other kind of tonneau cover?

This is the crème de la crème, people. It doesn’t get better than this. From the hands-off operation to the high-quality aluminum used in the construction to the ability to having full access and the ability to have the cover open to the exact inch you want it open, this cover has everything. Electric tonneau covers are the best tonneau covers your money can buy.

Are electric tonneau covers secure?

Yes. In fact, there is no tonneau cover more secure than an electric tonneau cover. The polymer fortified with aluminum is stronger than the hard plastic or fiberglass found in other tonneau covers. There are tonneau covers that are less secure yet, those made of soft materials like cloth or vinyl that a would-be thief can easily access via a swift and easy cut with a simple razor. You can’t cut through an aluminum tonneau cover.

The locking system used in an electric tonneau is also without parallel. The electromagnetic brake activated by your key fob cannot be undone with anything other than another press from your key fob. No one is going to pry that open, so no matter how valuable your gear is, you can rest assured it is safe when locked under an electric tonneau cover.

The electromagnetic braking system also allows for complete control of how open your tonneau cover is. Some tonneau covers can only be part way open. This is the case with folding tonneau covers, which are limited to leaving your bed a third or two-thirds open for a tri-panel cover, or a quarter, one-half, or three-quarters open for a quad-panel.

Even some standard retractable tonneau covers can only be opened midway in pre-established increments. You have more freedom with an electric tonneau cover, because the electromagnetic locks allow for intermittent locking: you can stop the cover anywhere in its track to best fit the cargo you’re transporting.

How long does it take to open an electric tonneau cover?

It has to be said that while it is easier to open an electric tonneau cover, it doesn’t open quite as quick as a standard retractable tonneau cover or a hinged tonneau cover. You won’t be left waiting too long though: it still takes less than 30 seconds, which is faster than it takes to open a roll-up tonneau cover, and much faster than it takes to open a snap tonneau cover. And for many people, a slight loss in speed is worth the convenience of opening the cover without even touching it.

How much do electric tonneau covers cost?

Well, they aren’t cheap. The Retrax PowertraxONE will run you somewhere between $1,880 and $1,930. There is also an upgraded version, the Retrax PowertraxPRO, will run you even more, from $2,400 to $2,450.