It has been rumored for quite some time now that the new-generation Ford Mustang would bring about the return of some old-time names, like the SVO or Cobra.

That is looking more like a reality no, as Ford ->ke31 has filed a trademark application for the "Mach 1" moniker, meaning that the new Mustang ->ke428 will also likely include a Mach 1 variant.

Ford filed the trademark on Thursday, February 23, 2012 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and it was published for opposition on January 1, 2013. Starting August 26, 2013, the trademark application has a status of "First Extension – Granted," meaning that Ford is free to use it, and that it needs to offer a legal document summarizing the way in which the automaker is planning to use the trademarked.

While this document offered by Ford remains a secret, we expect ford to slap the "Mach 1" badge on a high-performance version of the 2015 Mustang. A likely possibility is the Mach 1 name replacing the outgoing Shelby badge.

Click past the jump to learn more about the Ford Mustang Mach 1.

Ford Mustang Mach 1 - History

Ford used the Mach 1 nameplate for the first time in 1969 on a vehicle placed between the between the GT and the Boss 302. The original Mustang Mach 1 was distinguished by a matte-black hood with a shaker scoop, Magnum 500 wheels and a chin spoiler.

In 1971 the Mach 1 replaced the GT version, and this version was distinguished by a new hood with two small hood scoops, turn signals mounted in the grille and, of course, the signature matte-black hood. The Mach 1 name was dropped in 1978.

In 2003 Ford revived the name when it slapped the famed badge on a special edition placed between the GT and the Cobra. This version was powered by a 4.6-liter, V-8 engine that delivered 305 horsepower and featured the usual Mach 1 design elements.