Some cars are more than just means of transportation—they're nostalgic journeys into the past that hold the promise of a more electrified future. And when Honda revealed its Prelude concept at the motor show, it became clear that it might be ready to rekindle the charm of its sporty past in a new electric guise.
Honda she always was committed to driving pleasure, so it's no surprise that the concept Honda Prelude designed to offer just that – electrified pleasure on the road. At first glance, the design of the car seems to be a little far from the popular Civic model, albeit with some futuristic flair. The lack of a grille and symmetrical but not blocky body lines give the car a fresh and sporty look. Brembo brakes behind the 20-inch factory wheels are visible, and real side mirrors are installed instead of cameras. A slim but noticeable spoiler adorns the fast rear, while all-black windows give a clear message that the interior is hidden from prying eyes for now.
Although Honda while powertrain specifications remain under wraps, Toshihiro Mibe, the company's CEO, highlighted Honda's commitment to sporty models in the future. He described the Prelude concept as "an introduction to our future model, which will inherit the 'joy of driving' into a fully electrified future and embody the unchanging sporting mentality of the Honda company."
The return to the past of the Prelude car is a story of innovation and sportsmanship. In 1978, the first generation Prelude introduced the world to front-wheel drive sports performance. It was the first Honda model with a moonroof, and when it left the scene in 2001, the Prelude offered a maximum output of 217 horsepower (160 kW) in Japan and 200 horsepower (149 kW) in the US.
Today, as the automotive world moves toward electrification, it seems it might be time for a new Prelude EV. With a single front-wheel motor, a modest battery pack to keep weight in check, and a power output in the 300 horsepower (224 kW) range, this could be a fun and affordable sports coupe that could find life on the road again.
While details on Honda's Prelude concept remain under wraps for now, it's clear that Honda is ready to explore its sporty roots in the new electrified era. And judging by the visuals, the future of Honda's sporting legacy could be truly electric.
