Honda unveils all-new Prelude

Honda have taken the covers off the hybrid-electric Honda Prelude Concept. This concept demonstrates Honda’s commitment to offering exhilarating products while moving towards an electrified future.

The use of an iconic nameplate like Prelude symbolises the importance of this model’s role in the Honda electrification strategy and demonstrates how this strategy could be executed in a sporty and dynamic package.

The original Prelude was a sleek-two door coupe that first entered production in November 1978. It became a favourite amongst enthusiasts and remained a part of the Honda line up for five-generations, until 2001.

The use of the Prelude name is fitting with Honda Chief Engineer Tomoyuki Yamagami describing it as follows,” "This is going to be the prelude for all of the electric vehicles that Honda is going to be launching."

In concept the Honda Prelude looks to carry on where models like the CR-Z left off, being a stylish, technologically advanced, fun to drive coupé.

While Honda are yet to confirm they drivetrain, they have hinted that it will feature a hybrid drivetrain, which will in all likelihood be similar to what is currently utilised in hybrid versions of the Civic and Accord in certain markets.

The styling of the two dour coupé is sporty and sleek and when it enters production it will be the first two door in the Honda line up since the iconic S2000.

The front end features a light bar between the LED headlights and there is an air duct low down on the front bumper as well as behind the front wheels. The Prelude Concept uses physical wing mirrors and flush-fitting door handles. The rear too incorporates a full-width light bar, plus a small rear spoiler.

The reveal of the Prelude Concept formed part of a larger announcement regarding Honda’s electrification plans. As Honda move towards their goal of achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities by 2050, Honda has a vision to make battery electric and fuel cell vehicles represent 100% of their new vehicle sales by 2040. Hybrid vehicles are a key step in this electrification strategy which includes equipping core models with hybrid-electric powertrains.

Availability

The Honda Prelude is still a prototype and therefore global and local launch dates remain unconfirmed.