**Honda Patents Hint At Element-Inspired SUV And Pickup**
**Honda’s Innovative Designs**
– Honda patents a boxy SUV and a compact pickup with unique features.
– The SUV design draws inspiration from the original Honda Element.
– The patent filings spark speculation about potential production models.
**The Return of the Honda Element**
Honda’s long-dormant Element could be making a comeback. Newly surfaced patents hint at a boxy SUV with design cues straight from the original. While the Element’s quirky charm won a dedicated following, its 2011 discontinuation left a void. These patent filings have reignited hopes for a revival.
**Innovative Features**
The drawings depict a crossover with a clever tail extension that deploys into a roof-mounted tent, creating a separate room at the back of the vehicle. The resulting setup looks perfect for family camping trips, but that’s not even the most interesting part.
**Exciting Concepts**
Honda’s patent portfolio extends beyond the camping crossover. A compact pickup concept also emerges, showcasing a modular interior with a movable divider. This versatile little truck can transform from a single-seater workhorse to a two-person hauler. Bold fender flares, deployable steps, and a full-width taillight bar give the concept a rugged, adventurous look.
**Speculation and Possibilities**
The patents, filed in December 2022 and published this past June, have sparked speculation about a potential Element revival. The Element was introduced in concept form in 2001, followed by the production version in 2002. A modern reincarnation could be positioned below the HR-V in Honda’s SUV lineup, potentially featuring a hybrid or a fully electric powertrain under the hood.
**Final Thoughts**
As much as we would like to see the crossover and pickup evolve into production models, there’s a very good chance they were created solely for trademarking the clever camper and pickup partition ideas. Until Honda gives the green light, consider this a case of wishful thinking for Element enthusiasts.
**Exclusive Renderings**
Until Honda dusts off the Element nameplate for a future concept or production vehicle, you can use our exclusive renderings to fuel your imagination. These were based on the official patent drawings with a level of artistic freedom, creating the electrified camper of our dreams.
**Illustrations: Thanos Pappas for CarScoops**