The Honda Prelude trademark has recently undergone a renewal process, yet Honda’s intentions regarding the use of the Prelude name remain unclear.
On August 15, Honda submitted an application to renew the Prelude trademark to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This renewal encompasses the designation for “land vehicles, namely automobiles, and automotive structural parts.” Currently, there are no indications or rumors of any potential production plans associated with this renewal.
The Honda Prelude, originally introduced in Japan in 1978, was a sporty front-wheel-drive coupe that featured stylish bodywork draped over the dependable mechanical components for which Honda had become renowned at that time. Much like other Honda models, the Prelude gained popularity within the tuner scene. Interestingly, it was even considered for a role in the 2001 film “The Fast and the Furious” for the character Vince, although it was ultimately replaced by a Nissan Maxima.
Production of the Prelude concluded after the 2002 model year, marking the end of an impressive five-generation run. While Honda did not delve into excessive gadgetry during the 1980s and 1990s, it did introduce rear-wheel steering in the third-generation Prelude.
Today, the Prelude name continues to hold recognition among car enthusiasts. However, this trademark renewal does not necessarily imply that Honda is planning a revival of the model. Automakers frequently renew trademarks associated with past model names to maintain control over them, much like the renewals for the Ford Thunderbird and Toyota Celica trademarks.
Additionally, introducing a new Prelude might create confusion with the 2024 Honda Prologue, an electric SUV based on General Motors’ Ultium architecture, set to initiate Honda’s foray into the electric vehicle market when it arrives in showrooms next year. Both “Prelude” and “Prologue” denote forms of introduction, suggesting that Honda is likely to choose only one of these names for its future endeavors.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Trademark Renewal
Q: Why did Honda renew the Prelude trademark?
A: Honda renewed the Prelude trademark to maintain control over the name, which is a common practice among automakers for past model names. However, their specific plans for its future use are unclear.
Q: Is there any information about the revival of the Honda Prelude?
A: As of now, there are no rumors or indications of Honda planning to revive the Prelude model. The trademark renewal does not necessarily imply a revival.
Q: What was the significance of the Honda Prelude in the automotive industry?
A: The Honda Prelude, launched in 1978, was a sporty coupe known for its sleek design and reliable mechanical components. It gained popularity among car enthusiasts, particularly in the tuner scene.
Q: Why did production of the Honda Prelude end in 2002?
A: Production of the Honda Prelude concluded after the 2002 model year, marking the end of a successful five-generation run. However, specific reasons for its discontinuation are not mentioned in the text.
Q: How does the renewal of the Prelude trademark relate to the 2024 Honda Prologue?
A: Renewing the Prelude trademark could potentially lead to confusion with the 2024 Honda Prologue, an electric SUV. Both “Prelude” and “Prologue” denote forms of introduction, suggesting that Honda might choose one of these names for its future projects.
More about Trademark Renewal
- [Honda Renews Trademark for Prelude](Link to the source article)
- United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- [History of Honda Prelude](Link to a relevant history article)
- [“The Fast and the Furious” movie](Link to the movie information)
- [2024 Honda Prologue Electric SUV](Link to information about the 2024 Honda Prologue)
4 comments
Prelude, fast car, cool design. But, now? Renew, but no news of comeback. Sad.
Honda’s Prelude, 2002, great memories. Trademark renewal, maybe a revival? Hope!
Confusion ahead! Prelude, Prologue, what’s next, Honda? Stay tuned.
Wow, honda did a thing with the prelude trademark, but what they gonna do with it, huh?