Nu-Tec Designs, a specialty product design and manufacturing firm, has announces their newest product, the Flip-Step, a patent-pending hitch receiver step, third brake light and running light combination. This new flip-down step adds distinctive styling, functionality and enhanced safety to any SUV, pickup or RV, according to inventor Bill Schlicht. “The engineering, functionality and quality of the Flip-Step puts it in a class all by itself and it stands alone as the only multi-functional hitch receiver brake light and step in the industry,” Schlicht said. The front face of the 6”x9” Flip-Step features a super bright LED array which is on low when the running lights are on and is intensified upon braking giving the vehicle increased visibility day and night. Connection to the existing trailer wiring is simple, according to Nu-Tec, and installation of the Flip-Step is quick and easy, adjusting to most vehicle and hitch configurations. The large step provides a secure, anti-slip tread lined platform for accessing the truck bed, SUV roof rack or RV ladder. Cast from lightweight and strong 535 aircraft quality aluminum and designed to withstand heavy loads, the Flip-Step is rated to 600 pounds for consumer use; however testing from an independent laboratory found it required over 2,000 pounds before failure. The front face of the Flip-Step is designed with a flat surface especially shaped to accept logos for enhanced customization. “The 'Flip Step' first caught our eyes in the parts department of an RV retailer," said Chris St. John of SeaTac, Wash. "We were immediately impressed by the high quality of the finish. The powder coating was so tough it reminded us of a high-gloss version of a sprayed-in bedliner. We were so taken with the overall quality and the L.E.D. light display that it took us a moment to realize it was actually a step. I have a bad back and without a ladder, I had no way to access the back of my Ford F350 4X4 Superduty. Now I climb right in!” St. John said. The Flip-Step is available in two standard finishes, silver vein powder-coated and a brilliant Cermachrome finish, with additional styles such as a light bronze version currently being added for the high-end SUV market. “We’re finding that SUV and truck dealers in particular appreciate the polished, finished look the Flip-Step adds to their vehicles," Schlicht said. "Several dealerships are including a Flip-Step with every vehicle as a value-added feature for their customers, providing them with a highly functional, quality product with enhanced safety.” Further information on the Flip-Step can be found at www.flip-step.com or by contacting Nu-Tec Designs at (425) 898-0995 or e-mail nutec12@home.com.