Choosing the right automatic running boards suppliers sounds simple.
It isn’t.
A buyer can find dozens of suppliers online, compare product photos, check prices, and still have no clear idea which supplier can deliver consistent quality.
You may feel the same way. Too many options. Too much information. Not sure where to start.
After years in the running board business, I know that a supplier needs to offer more than a good-looking product. Production capacity, vehicle coverage, quality control, OEM/ODM support, MOQ, and after-sales service all matter.
This article covers 7 automatic running board suppliers and manufacturers worth knowing.
By the end, you’ll understand what makes each supplier different and what to check before choosing an automatic running board supplier for your business.
Empecemos.
7 Global Automatic Running Boards Suppliers: Comparison Chart
If you’re short on time or just need a bird’s-eye view, this table breaks down key information across seven global automatic running board suppliers.
| Company / Brand | País | Posicionamiento | Main Vehicle Brands / Coverage | Tipo de producto | Punto fuerte | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RealTruck / VoltStep | EE. UU. | Marca / Fabricante | Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, RAM, Toyota and other trucks & SUVs | Estribos eléctricos | Large aftermarket portfolio and distribution network | Medio-alto |
| Estribos MAX | China | Manufacturer / OEM / ODM | Toyota, Jeep, Ford, Nissan, RAM, Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, BYD, Chery, GWM, Geely, Changan and other global brands; 500+ vehicle models | Estribos eléctricos | Factory direct, OEM/ODM, broad vehicle coverage | Medio |
| Boost Auto | EE. UU. | Brand / Supplier | Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, RAM and other full-size trucks & SUVs | Powered Running Boards | Truck-focused aftermarket products | Alto |
| DirtyBars | Australia | Own Brand / Supplier | Toyota, Ford, Nissan, Isuzu and other 4WDs | Electric Retractable Side Steps | Strong Australian 4WD focus | Alto |
| WODEN | Sudáfrica | Fabricante | Toyota, Ford, Isuzu, Jeep, Land Rover, Volkswagen, Nissan and Mercedes-Benz | Electric Side Steps | In-house manufacturing and wide 4WD coverage | Medio-alto |
| VIKOR Industries | Australia | Own Brand / Supplier | Toyota, Ford, Isuzu, RAM, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz, BYD, Volkswagen and others | Electric Side Steps | Australian 4WD aftermarket focus | Alto |
| Accesorios Clearview | Australia | Own Brand / Supplier | Toyota, Ford, Nissan, Isuzu, RAM, Mazda and others | Power Boards | Vehicle-specific power board applications | Medio-alto |
Now that you’ve seen the summary, let’s unpack each automatic running board supplier and look at its products, vehicle coverage, business model, and key features.
1. RealTruck / VoltStep
RealTruck is a major U.S. automotive aftermarket company that supplies products for trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles. Its product range includes running boards, truck bed accessories, towing products, lighting, suspension parts, and other vehicle accessories.
For automatic running boards, RealTruck offers its own VoltStep Electric Running Boards and also sells established brands such as AMP Research. This gives the company a broad position in the power running board market, from its own products to well-known aftermarket systems. RealTruck also states that it is a manufacturer, not only a retailer.
Gama de productos
RealTruck’s electric running board range covers several truck and SUV applications. VoltStep is available for vehicles such as:
- Ford: F-250, F-350, Ranger, Ranger Raptor, Bronco
- Chevrolet: Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500
- GMC: Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500
- RAM: Full-size pickup applications
- Other Trucks & SUVs: Various vehicle-specific applications across the RealTruck catalog
The VoltStep uses a 6-inch-wide aluminum stepping surface and automatically deploys when the vehicle door opens. It retracts under the vehicle when the door closes.
Technology and Product Features
- Automatic Deployment: Magnetic door sensors trigger the running boards when the door opens.
- Aluminum Construction: The boards use lightweight, high-strength aluminum with a textured powder-coated finish.
- Integrated LED Lighting: LED lights improve visibility when the running boards are deployed.
- Safety Stop: The system can stop when it detects an obstruction.
- Vehicle-Specific Mounting: Kits include vehicle-specific brackets, wiring, and installation instructions.
- Weather Protection: The design uses sealed components and corrosion-resistant materials for truck and SUV applications.
- Garantía: VoltStep products carry a limited 5-year warranty.
Final Thoughts
RealTruck stands out because it combines its own VoltStep product with a wider portfolio of aftermarket running board brands. Its vehicle coverage is especially strong in the U.S. truck and SUV market, with products for popular models from Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, RAM, and other manufacturers.
For buyers comparing automatic running boards suppliers, RealTruck is an important reference because it combines product development, manufacturing, distribution, and aftermarket support in one business. Its product range also shows how electric running boards can be positioned as both a practical vehicle upgrade and a premium aftermarket accessory.
2. MAX Running Boards
MAX Running Boards is a China-based manufacturer specializing in automatic electric running boards for SUVs, pickup trucks, and 4×4 vehicles. The company was established in Foshan in 2012 and operates a 25,000 m² manufacturing facility. MAX works with distributors, dealers, 4WD shops, vehicle builders, and automotive businesses in international markets.
The company focuses on both standard vehicle applications and custom development. Its production capabilities cover CNC machining, robotic welding, powder coating, assembly, and product testing. MAX also provides OEM and ODM services for customers that need customized products, branding, packaging, or new vehicle applications.
Gama de productos
MAX Running Boards offers automatic electric running boards for a wide range of SUVs, pickup trucks, and 4×4 vehicles. The product range covers more than 500 vehicle models across major global and Chinese automotive brands.
- Toyota: Land Cruiser, Hilux, Tundra, Tacoma, 4Runner, Fortuner
- Ford: F-150, F-250, F-350, Ranger, Bronco, Everest
- Nissan: Patrol Y62, Patrol Y63, Navara, Frontier, Titan
- RAM: 1500, 2500, 3500
- Jeep: Wrangler, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee
- GM: Chevrolet Silverado, Colorado, Tahoe, Suburban; GMC Sierra, Yukon, Canyon
- Mitsubishi: Triton, Pajero, Pajero Sport, Outlander
- Isuzu: D-Max, MU-X
- Mercedes-Benz: G-Class, GLS, GLE
- Geely: Monjaro, Okavango, Coolray and other selected models
- GWM: Tank 300, Tank 500, Tank 700, Cannon / Poer, Haval H9
- Chery: Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8, Tiggo 9 and other selected models
This range allows MAX to serve both traditional 4×4 markets and the growing demand for electric running boards on newer Chinese vehicles.
Technology and Product Features
- Vehicle-Specific Design: Products use vehicle-specific brackets and mounting points for supported applications.
- OEM & ODM: MAX supports custom products, private-label projects, logo customization, and new vehicle development.
- Durability Testing: Running boards are tested for up to 80,000 cycles.
- Load Capacity: Products are designed to support 300 kg or more per side.
- Water Resistance: Selected systems use IPX7-rated waterproof motors.
- Aluminum Step Board: The main step board can use 2–4 mm aluminum alloy, with the thickness customizable for different projects.
- Factory Production: CNC machining, robotic welding, powder coating, assembly, and testing are handled within the production system.
- Flexible MOQ: Standard products are available from 1 juego, while custom development projects generally start from 30 sets.
Final Thoughts
MAX is built around the manufacturing side of the running board business. Instead of focusing on one regional vehicle market, its product range covers established 4×4 platforms from Toyota, Ford, Nissan, Jeep, RAM, Mercedes-Benz, and other major brands, as well as newer Chinese vehicle brands such as Geely, GWM, and Chery.
El 500+ vehicle model coverage is particularly useful for distributors and aftermarket businesses that need to serve different vehicle markets with one supplier. Custom development also gives MAX a way to support applications that are not yet part of the standard catalog, especially when customers can provide vehicle or chassis data.
For businesses looking beyond ready-made products, the combination of factory production, OEM/ODM support, standard products from 1 set, and custom vehicle development makes MAX suitable for both regular aftermarket supply and new running board projects.
3. Boost Auto
Boost Auto is a U.S.-based aftermarket brand and supplier focused on accessories for trucks and SUVs. The company is based in Illinois and has built its product range around popular American pickup trucks and off-road vehicles. Its current lineup includes powered running boards, light-up running boards, lighting products, door handles, and other truck accessories.
Gama de productos
Boost Auto offers two main types of powered running boards: its standard Boost Auto Powered Running Boards and the Lumastep M2 Powered Light Up Running Boards.
The products cover many popular truck and SUV applications, including:
- Ford: F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Bronco
- Chevrolet: Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Colorado
- GMC: Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Canyon
- RAM: 1500, 2500, 3500
- Toyota: Tundra
- Jeep: Wrangler, Gladiator
The current product catalog shows vehicle-specific applications across different model years and configurations, rather than using one universal running board for multiple vehicles.
Technology and Product Features
El Lumastep M2 is one of Boost Auto’s main powered running board products. It combines automatic deployment and retraction with integrated LED lighting. Buyers can choose different lighting functions, including running lights, turn signals, sequential signals, and switchback functions on selected applications.
Key features include:
- Automatic Deployment: The boards automatically deploy when the vehicle doors open and retract when the doors close.
- Integrated LED Lighting: Lumastep M2 adds LED lighting to the running board and offers different lighting configurations.
- Compatibilidad específica con el vehículo: Each application is developed for specific vehicle models and model years.
- Complete Installation Kits: Products include vehicle-specific brackets, hardware, wiring harnesses, and installation instructions.
- OEM-Style Integration: The wiring system is designed for integration with the vehicle, with detailed installation instructions provided.
- U.S. Support: Boost Auto provides U.S.-based customer support and lists lifetime technical support for its Lumastep M2 products.
- Garantía: Current Lumastep M2 listings carry a 1-year warranty.
Final Thoughts
Boost Auto has built its running board business around the U.S. truck and SUV aftermarket rather than a broad global vehicle catalog. Its strongest applications are full-size pickups and popular off-road models from Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, RAM, Toyota, and Jeep.
El Lumastep M2 also gives Boost Auto a clear product identity. Instead of treating lighting as a separate accessory, the company combines powered running boards with LED functions such as turn signals, sequential lighting, and startup effects.
For the U.S. truck market, Boost Auto’s approach is closely tied to vehicle-specific fitment and installation support. The detailed year-and-model applications, complete wiring kits, installation guides, and U.S. technical support make the product line particularly focused on direct aftermarket installation.
4. DirtyBars
DirtyBars is an Australian-owned brand developed by Dirty4x4, focusing on automatic running boards and electric side steps for 4WD vehicles. The brand started with a custom electric side step project for a Toyota LandCruiser 76 Series and has since expanded into a wider range of Australian 4WD applications.
Gama de productos
DirtyBars focuses on popular 4WDs and pickup trucks used in the Australian market. Current applications include:
- Toyota: LandCruiser 76, 78, 79, 250 Prado, 300 Series, Hilux
- Ford: Ranger and Ranger Raptor
- Nissan: Patrol Y60, Y61, Y62 and NP300 Navara
- Mazda: BT-50
- Isuzu: D-Max
- Chevrolet: Silverado 1500 and 2500
The company continues to develop additional estribos eléctricos for new vehicle applications. This vehicle-specific approach gives DirtyBars a clear focus on the 4WD aftermarket rather than general passenger vehicles.
Technology and Product Features
DirtyBars combines the function of automatic electric running boards with a rugged design inspired by traditional rock sliders. The steps deploy when the doors open and retract when the doors close, helping improve vehicle access while keeping the steps out of the way when driving off-road.
Key features include:
- Vehicle-Specific Fit: Brackets and mounting points are designed for individual vehicle applications.
- 300 kg Load Rating: The electric side steps are rated for up to 300 kg of vertical load.
- Waterproof Motors: Motors are rated for up to 30 minutes of submersion.
- Safety System: Anti-pinch protection and an obstacle-detecting pressure sensor are included.
- Manual Override: Selected systems include an in-cab manual override button.
- Factory-Style Installation: Kits include the steps, brackets, ECU, wiring harness, and mounting hardware.
Final Thoughts
DirtyBars has built its position around the Australian 4WD market. Its strongest applications include LandCruiser 70 Series models, LandCruiser 300 Series, Prado 250, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Patrol. This focus gives the brand a clear place among automatic running boards suppliers serving the Australian and New Zealand 4WD aftermarket.
The main difference is its product design. DirtyBars combines electric retractable side steps with a rock-slider-inspired appearance, giving the running boards a more rugged look than many conventional flat power boards. Its growing dealer and installer network across Australia and New Zealand also supports local product supply and professional installation.
5. WODEN
WODEN is a South African manufacturer of automatic running boards and electric side steps for SUVs, pickups, and 4×4 vehicles. Its products are developed and manufactured in South Africa, with more than 120 staff and a dedicated R&D team of 10 engineers. WODEN has developed more than 100 vehicle-specific derivatives and has production capacity of up to 80,000 sets per year.
Gama de productos
WODEN offers estribos eléctricos for many popular 4WD and pickup platforms, including:
- Toyota: Hilux, Fortuner, Land Cruiser 76, 79, 200, 300, Prado
- Ford: Ranger and Everest
- Isuzu: D-Max and MU-X
- Jeep: Wrangler and Gladiator
- Mitsubishi: Triton / L200
- Land Rover: Defender
- Nissan: Navara
- Mercedes-Benz: X-Class and Sprinter
- Volkswagen: Amarok
The company develops its estribos automáticos for individual vehicle derivatives rather than relying on a universal design. This allows the brackets, step position, and electrical system to match specific vehicle applications.
Technology and Product Features
WODEN electric side steps use 12V electric motors and deploy in about 1.25 seconds when a door opens or when activated through the vehicle remote. The steps use aluminum construction with cast-steel hinges and support loads of up to 300 kg.
Key features include:
- IP68 Motors: Designed for wet and demanding off-road conditions.
- Plug-and-Play Installation: Most applications use bolt-on installation without drilling.
- Anti-Pinch Protection: The system helps prevent the step from closing on an obstruction.
- Vehicle-Specific Design: Each running board is developed for a specific vehicle derivative.
- 210,000-Cycle Testing: WODEN states that every step undergoes a 210,000-cycle test before release.
- 2-Year Warranty: Products are backed by a two-year warranty.
Final Thoughts
WODEN stands out among automatic running boards suppliers because manufacturing is a core part of its business. Its dedicated facility, in-house R&D team, more than 100 vehicle derivatives, and stated annual production capacity of 80,000 sets give the brand a stronger manufacturing profile than many regional aftermarket brands.
Its product range is also closely connected to the African and 4WD markets, with applications for Land Cruiser, Hilux, Ranger, D-Max, Fortuner, and other popular off-road vehicles. For buyers looking for a running boards manufacturer with established vehicle-specific development and large-scale production capability, WODEN represents a distinctly manufacturing-led model.
6. VIKOR Industries
VIKOR Industries is an Australian-owned 4WD accessories brand that designs and engineers products for the Australian market. Its range includes estribos laterales eléctricos, bull bars, lighting, suspension, and other 4×4 accessories. The brand focuses on products for popular SUVs, pickups, and off-road vehicles.
Gama de productos
VIKOR offers automatic running boards and electric side steps for a growing range of 4WD vehicles. Its applications include:
- Toyota: Hilux, Tundra, Prado 250
- Ford: Ranger, Ranger Raptor, Everest, F-150
- Isuzu: D-MAX and MU-X
- Nissan: Navara
- RAM: 1500 and 2500
- Chevrolet: Silverado 1500
- Mercedes-Benz: G-Wagon
- Volkswagen: Amarok
- BYD: Shark 6
The product range covers both established 4WD models and newer vehicles entering the Australian market, including electric and hybrid pickups.
Technology and Product Features
VIKOR electric running boards are designed to extend when the vehicle doors open and retract when the doors close. Vehicle-specific brackets allow many applications to use existing mounting points without drilling or major vehicle modifications.
Depending on the application, features can include integrated LED lighting, safety stop functions, and load ratings of up to 280 kg. The retractable design also helps maintain ground clearance when the vehicle is used on rough roads or off-road tracks.
VIKOR’s approach is focused on making automatic running boards fit specific 4WD platforms rather than offering a universal side-step system. This is important for vehicles with different chassis layouts, factory mounting points, and ground-clearance requirements.
Final Thoughts
VIKOR has a broader 4WD accessory range than many specialist automatic running boards suppliers. Electric side steps are part of a larger catalog that also includes vehicle protection, suspension, lighting, and other 4WD upgrades.
Its coverage of newer platforms is another notable part of the business. Alongside established models such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-MAX, VIKOR also offers applications for vehicles such as the BYD Shark 6. This mix reflects the changing Australian 4WD market, where traditional diesel pickups and newer electrified vehicles are increasingly sold side by side.
7. Accesorios Clearview
Accesorios Clearview is an Australian automotive accessories brand that supplies automatic running boards and electric side steps for SUVs, pickups, and 4WD vehicles. The company is known for its Clearview Power Boards range, which is designed around vehicle-specific applications and distributed through a network of automotive accessory dealers.
Gama de productos
Clearview Power Boards cover a range of popular 4WD and pickup models in Australia, including:
- Toyota: Hilux, LandCruiser, Prado
- Ford: Ranger and Everest
- Nissan: Navara and Patrol
- Isuzu: D-MAX and MU-X
- RAM: 1500 and other selected models
- Mazda: BT-50
The range focuses on vehicle-specific estribos eléctricos, with mounting systems developed for individual vehicle platforms rather than a universal fit.
Technology and Product Features
Clearview Power Boards use an automatic retractable design. The estribos laterales eléctricos extend when the doors open and retract when the doors close, providing a wider step when entering the vehicle while keeping the boards closer to the body during driving.
Key features include:
- Automatic Deployment: The running boards extend and retract with the vehicle doors.
- Vehicle-Specific Design: Brackets and mounting systems are matched to individual vehicle applications.
- 300 kg Load Capacity: The boards are designed to support up to 300 kg.
- IP68 Motors: The motors are designed for protection against dust and water.
- LED Lighting: Selected applications include integrated LED lighting.
- Dealer Installation: Clearview Power Boards are supplied through automotive accessory dealers and installers.
Final Thoughts
Clearview Accessories takes a more dealer-focused approach than many online-first automatic running boards suppliers. Its Power Boards range is designed for the Australian 4WD aftermarket, with vehicle-specific applications covering popular models from Toyota, Ford, Nissan, Isuzu, RAM, and Mazda.
The dealer network is an important part of the Clearview model. Instead of focusing mainly on direct online sales, the brand works with automotive accessory businesses that can supply and install its electric running boards. This makes Clearview particularly relevant to the Australian accessory trade, where vehicle-specific fitment and professional installation are important parts of the purchasing process.
Conclusión
We started with a simple question—where can you find reliable automatic running boards suppliers?
You now have 7 companies to compare, each with its own market focus, vehicle coverage, and product approach.
Still looking for the right supplier?
That’s where MAX Running Boards comes in. From standard vehicle applications to custom automatic running boards projects, MAX supports distributors, dealers, 4WD shops, and vehicle builders worldwide.
Ponte en contacto con nosotros hoy mismo and discuss your next running board project with MAX.
