Subaru May Be Altering Its Car Naming Strategy | Carscoops

      The brand is likely to focus more on names such as SVX, WRX, and BRZ.

      Subaru has submitted three new trademark applications for potential electric vehicle models, indicating an expansion in their forthcoming lineup.

      The new trademarks for ZPX, VPX, and ACX suggest that Subaru is progressing toward an electrified future.

      Additionally, the company has trademarked STI and Wilderness variations of these enigmatic nameplates.

      Subaru's offerings have been consistently growing, and recent trademark activities suggest that this trend is set to continue. The latest trio of trademark applications filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office indicates the possibility of more models, potentially electric ones, soon. The applications pertain to the names “ACX,” “VPX,” and “ZPX.”

      All three submissions point out their applicability to “automobiles and structural parts, therefore, electric cars,” which implies a possible new generation of EVs and provides some insight into Subaru's future plans.

      Not Just Another Component or Nostalgic Name

      First of all, these aren't merely tech components or names like Hemi or F.A.C.E. Furthermore, these do not belong to Subaru's past. The company has never utilized any of these names in any recognized capacity. They also don’t connect to any previous models or concepts. However, the trademark filings include more than just three letters.

      Additionally, all three trademark applications, first identified by Carbuzz, also include submissions for an STI performance version. This is quite unusual for Subaru, as there are currently no STI-branded products available in the U.S. While both the BRZ tS and WRX tS feature STI-badged parts, neither qualifies as a true STI model, despite enthusiasts urging the brand for them.

      This aligns with recent remarks from Subaru executives, acknowledging the brand's departure from its performance-focused roots. Perhaps these three vehicles signal a return to that heritage.

      Subaru had previously filed for a trademark on the term “STe” a couple of years ago. Notably, the ZPX trademark also includes a Wilderness label, suggesting that whatever it ultimately becomes could have two high-performance variants.

      It's certainly possible that these are merely potential names the brand is contemplating and may never actually use. Clearly, the brand has yet to introduce the STe badge. Last year, it also filed for a dozen other names, including Accomplice, Everguide, Everpass, Getaway, Highroad, Hightrail, Outsider, Tailwind, Trailhead, Trailseeker, Uncharted, and Viewfinder.

      Notably, Uncharted emerged from that group, leaving the future of ACX, VPX, and ZPX uncertain at this stage.