SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Dec. 18, 2024 – Honda enthusiasts rejoice! The legendary Prelude is making a comeback, reimagined as a hybrid-electric sports coupe set to hit the U.S. market late next year. This exciting revival blends the Prelude's sporty heritage with Honda's commitment to electrification, promising an exhilarating driving experience with enhanced efficiency.
A Legacy of Innovation
First introduced in 1978, the Honda Prelude captivated drivers with its sleek design and engaging performance. Across five generations, the Prelude consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive technology, introducing innovations like four-wheel steering and torque vectoring. Now, the sixth-generation Prelude is poised to carry on this legacy, ushering in a new era of electrified performance.
"The return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid-electric sports model demonstrates our continued commitment to offer a variety of exhilarating products to meet the needs of our customers," said Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda Auto Sales. "The first three products in the Honda lineup in the 1970s were Civic, Accord and Prelude, and soon all three will be back together again in our passenger car lineup as hybrids."
Hybrid Performance Meets Sporty Handling
The all-new Prelude will feature Honda's award-winning two-motor hybrid powertrain, delivering a balance of power and efficiency. This sophisticated system combines a gasoline engine with two electric motors, providing instant torque and responsive acceleration. In addition, the Prelude will debut the innovative Honda S+ Shift feature, designed to enhance driver engagement and deliver a thrilling driving experience.
Electrification: A Key Pillar of Honda's Strategy
The return of the Prelude as a hybrid-electric model underscores Honda's commitment to electrification and its vision for a carbon-neutral future. Honda has set ambitious goals to achieve carbon neutrality for all its products and corporate activities by 2050, with battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles representing 100% of its vehicle sales by 2040.
Celebrating 25 Years of Hybrid Leadership
Honda is a pioneer in hybrid technology, having introduced America's first hybrid-electric model, the Insight, a quarter-century ago. The company is celebrating 25 years of hybrid sales in America this month, marking a significant milestone in its electrification journey.
Honda's Expanding Electrified Lineup
The Prelude joins a growing family of Honda electrified vehicles, including hybrid versions of the Accord, CR-V, and Civic. Honda also recently launched the Prologue, its first all-electric SUV, and is set to begin production of EVs based on its new Honda-developed EV platform at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio.
Looking Ahead: The Honda 0 Series
Honda continues to invest in next-generation electrification technologies, as showcased by its Honda 0 Series concept models. The company plans to introduce a production model of the Saloon in 2026, with a total of seven Honda 0 Series models planned globally by 2030.
About Honda
Honda is a leading automaker with a strong commitment to providing clean, safe, and enjoyable vehicles. The company offers a diverse lineup of cars, SUVs, trucks, and minivans, with a growing focus on electrified models. Honda has a long history of manufacturing in North America, with the majority of its vehicles sold in the U.S. being made in North America.