Automakers apply for new patent filings all the time, but only a few are worth highlighting. This is one of them. Late last month, Ford filed to trademark the name "G.O.A.T Modes" with the US Patent and Trademark Office. That's right. Goat Modes. Sports fans will know that G.O.A.T typically stands for Greatest Of All Time but we're not entirely sure that's what Ford intends here as the patent filing didn't clarify it.

What's more clear, however, is that this patent involves "drive systems comprised of automatic controls for vehicle chassis and powertrain controllers, integrated as an integral part of a passenger vehicle."

So, where and how could we see a future GOAT Mode?

Bear in mind this is pure speculation on our part, but going by the patent description, this could be a new driving mode for a range of future models, specifically a future off-roader, such as the upcoming Ford Bronco and next-generation F-150. It's also possible GOAT Mode could be used for a high-performance model, such as a future Mustang variant.

The patent did not specify this system is for combustion-engined vehicles only, so there's a chance it could even be used on upcoming electric vehicles, including the Mustang Mach-E. Has Ford thought of something no else has done before? Possibly, yes.

One theory is that GOAT Mode would allow drivers to switch from a solid to an independent front suspension at the push of a button. In other words, is this a really stiff, disconnecting sway bar? It might also have something to do with adjusting the vehicle's ride height. More specifically, a system capable of adjusting individual wheels while rock crawling.

Again, these are only possibilities at this stage and automakers never comment on pending patent applications such as this.