What if it is for an off-road-focused Maverick
Ford has applied for a trademark in America to protect the use the word “Rattler” on its vehicles. According to paperwork, this would apply to “motor vehicles” which includes automobiles, pick up trucks, electric vehicles and sport utility vehicles.
The Rattler name is ideal for an off-road vehicle that is desert-focused and can maneuver through rough terrain. Raptor’s pronunciation is also very similar to Rattler, which could lead to a direct connection between the two brands. Motor1.com reached Ford to see if Ford was interested in more information about the Rattler trademark. It didn’t. Dawn McKenzie, spokesperson for Trademark Applications, told us that although they are meant to protect new designs and phrases, they are not necessarily indicative of new business or product planning.
Scientists define raptors as birds of prey. They include hawks and falcons, owls and other vertebrate-eating animals. Some raptors even eat snakes like rattlesnakes. This could lead to a hierarchy in the Ford lineup, with the Raptor at its top and the Rattler at its lowest rung. It is possible that Ford considered using a different animal to be the highest performing version of its off-road-oriented products. The F150 would include the Raptor. Bronco could have the Warthog and possibly either Maverick or Rattler would be able to get the Rattler’s name, assuming that the trademark is granted. This strategy may not be possible based on new information about the Bronco. Ford has reportedly decided to stop calling the more compact model Warthog. The Raptor name will be used to link the SUV to the pickup.