The new "NSX-type" EV will be based on Honda's innovative 0 (Zero) Series electric platform, which is set to underpin a range of future vehicles. This platform will first appear in Honda's electric sedan, scheduled for launch in 2026, and will later support the new Acura sports model. The 0 Series architecture is designed with a focus on being "thin and light," which translates to a lower vehicle height and a more spacious cabin. This approach to EV design is critical for maintaining the low center of gravity and agile handling characteristics that are essential for a high-performance sports car.

Shinji Aoyama, Global Executive Vice President of Honda, shared insights into this new project during a roundtable interview at Monterey Car Week. He emphasized that while the vehicle might not carry the NSX name, it will embody the spirit of the NSX. "We may not call it an NSX, but it's kind of an NSX-type of vehicle," Aoyama stated. This statement leaves room for speculation, but it is clear that the new model will aim to deliver a similar blend of performance, style, and technological innovation that made the NSX a legend.

The NSX has long been revered as a benchmark in the world of sports cars. The second-generation NSX, which ended production in 2022, was a hybrid powerhouse featuring a twin-turbo V6 engine paired with three electric motors to produce a combined 600 horsepower. This setup allowed the NSX to compete with some of the most prestigious supercars on the market, such as the McLaren 650S, Lamborghini Huracán, and Ferrari 488. The upcoming electric model will have to deliver a similarly exhilarating experience to meet the high expectations set by its predecessors.

While electric vehicles have proven their capabilities in terms of straight-line speed, handling and track endurance remain areas of concern. Even the most advanced electric supercars struggle to match the sustained performance of their internal combustion engine counterparts. Additionally, the sound—or lack thereof—of electric motors presents a challenge for manufacturers aiming to deliver a truly immersive driving experience. The second-generation NSX's V6 engine, though not the most sonorous, still offered a more engaging auditory experience than the relatively muted hum of electric motors.

As we look ahead to the late 2020s, the introduction of this "NSX-type" EV represents a bold step for Acura. The brand is not just preserving its performance heritage but also adapting it to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. The development of this new model on Honda's 0 Series platform underscores a commitment to innovation, with a focus on delivering a thrilling yet sustainable driving experience.

While many details remain under wraps, the confirmation of this new sports model has already generated excitement among enthusiasts and industry insiders alike. Acura's foray into electric sports cars could very well set a new standard in the segment, blending the precision and performance of the NSX with the benefits of electric power.

The world will have to wait until 2027 to see what Acura has in store, but one thing is certain: the legacy of the NSX will continue to inspire and evolve in ways that push the boundaries of what a sports car can be.