Honda has long been known for its innovative and unique vehicle designs, and it seems that the automaker may be considering a return to its boxy, off-road roots with two recent patents that have caught the attention of automotive enthusiasts. One of these patents features a squared-off SUV that bears a striking resemblance to the beloved Honda Element, which was in production from 2003 to 2011. The Element, with its distinctive upright stance and plastic bodywork, may have seemed a bit quirky at the time, but its adventurous and boxy look has stood the test of time, garnering a loyal following even years after it was discontinued.
The rise of electric powertrains in the automotive industry presents a unique opportunity for Honda to revive the Element, and the two patents filed by the company suggest that this may be a possibility. Both patents were filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in December 2022 and were published in June of this year. One of the patents showcases a camper attachment that can be latched onto the back and top of a vehicle, featuring expandable extensions that can roughly double the size of the vehicle. While the camper attachment is practical and innovative, it is the vehicle it is attached to that has captured the attention of enthusiasts—a boxy SUV with generous ground clearance that harkens back to the design of the Honda Element.
The rectangular shape of the SUV in the patent drawing bears a resemblance to the Element, particularly in the design of the doors. The smaller rear door that opens in the opposite direction to the front door, along with the unique door handles that merge to form an ovoid housing, are direct callbacks to the Element’s coach doors. This design choice not only adds a touch of nostalgia for fans of the Element but also showcases Honda’s commitment to creating practical and versatile vehicles that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The second patent filed by Honda features a compact pickup truck with a movable divider that can adjust the length of the bed. This innovative feature allows for greater flexibility in cargo storage and transportation, making the truck a versatile option for both work and play. The patent also suggests that the roof of the truck could be extended when the divider is in its farthest-back position, providing additional interior room for passengers or cargo. While this truck may not be as directly referential to the Element as the SUV in the first patent, it still exudes a rugged and blocky aesthetic that is sure to appeal to fans of off-road vehicles.
While it is important to note that not all patents filed by automakers result in production vehicles, the designs showcased in these patents offer a glimpse into Honda’s potential future lineup. The possibility of a new Element or a similar lifestyle vehicle from Honda is certainly exciting for enthusiasts who appreciate the brand’s history of innovative and adventurous designs. Whether these patents will materialize into production models remains to be seen, but one thing is for certain—Honda’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and functionality is as strong as ever.
