This roadster looks so fun. This patent could be an indication that Honda is interested in building it.

According to a newly published patent in America, Honda may still be exploring its Project 2&4 Concept that it developed in 2015. This filing outlines a vehicle’s body with a backbone frame running through the middle. These illustrations are strikingly similar to the bare bones car that was on display a few years back. This patent was filed by the company in the U.S. in August 2016 and published by the Patent Office on February 16, 2017.

Honda claims it can make a body structure using a die-cast aluminium beam. This will allow Honda to “reduce the number of components and increase stiffness to give the user a direct feeling of acceleration like an automobile,” according the patent. It would theoretically retain rigidity and reduce weight while being single-piece. The production process would also be simple since the components would bolt to the supports that are located in the spine’s center. This would allow for mounting of pedals and steering wheels.

Honda’s description about how the powertrain would function makes us want to drive a car like this. Engineers would cut an opening in the aluminum backbone and place the powertrain inside. Either a combustion engine, or an electric motor would work according to the company. The vehicle’s spine would have a hollow section for the fuel tank. Patent states that one or more wheels could be attached to the back.

To reduce the vehicle’s weight, the owner can remove the passenger’s chair from a solo drive. A cowl panel could be installed in the chair’s spot by the owner for improved aerodynamics.

Honda also considers two options for increasing the safety of its vehicles. There are two options for improving safety in the vehicle. One is to use inflatable airbags at each seat and one at each front. The company may also consider using telescoping rods (see the below) in the same places that will provide continued support after a rollover.

Honda’s Project 2&4 Concept was presented at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. It is a joint project of the automotive and motorcycle engineers. Behind the driver, the show car featured a 999cc V4 engine with 212 horsepower (158kilowatts) as well as 87 pound-feet (112 Newton-meters). It weighed in at 893 pounds (405 kg).

The simple and lightweight Honda roadster is sure to get our attention, especially when it comes up against the Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, a patent filing is not a guarantee that an invention will be brought to market. You might find Honda protecting your cool idea from someone else.

However, Honda designer Martin Petersson stated to Top Gear in 2015 the company was not done with Project 2&4. “There will be another step. He said that it was too optimistic for us to continue this project in a basement. Perhaps this patent filing could indicate that there will be an official update on the vehicle in the near future.