Electric Cars

Reimagining Performance: The Electric Evolution of Acura's Legacy

A Classic Nameplate Reborn: The RSX Embraces Electric Future

Acura is bringing back the RSX, but in a completely different form than its predecessor. This time, it emerges as an athletic electric SUV, a remarkable achievement in its own right. Significantly, this vehicle represents the inaugural electric model to be constructed on Honda's groundbreaking Zero global EV platform, setting a new precedent for the automaker's electric future.

Honda's Electric Vehicle Expansion: A New Global Platform

Honda's current electric vehicle offerings are somewhat limited, particularly within the North American market, primarily consisting of the Prologue and Acura ZDX, both of which utilize General Motors' Equinox EV architecture. While more electric models are available in Asian and European markets, the company's EV strategy has historically been fragmented. However, Honda is now poised to introduce a comprehensive range of new electric vehicles, all underpinned by its newly developed, in-house global EV platform, aptly named 'Zero'.

The RSX Concept: A Glimpse into Future Production

Today, Acura proudly presents the RSX concept, which is slated to be the first vehicle to utilize the innovative Zero platform. Although currently a concept, Acura confirms it provides a strong indication of the final production model, which is scheduled to commence manufacturing in the latter half of 2026 at Honda's new EV production hub in Ohio. This new RSX will share a production line with the Acura Integra, which may cause some confusion given that the original RSX in certain markets was also known as the Integra during its initial run in the 1990s. However, the shared name is where the similarities end; this all-electric performance SUV is distinctly different from the current sporty sedan.

The Vision Behind the Design: Precision Crafted Performance Redefined

Lance Woelfer, Vice President of Auto Sales at American Honda Motor Co., emphasized the significance of the new concept, stating, “The striking design of our Acura RSX Prototype demonstrates that it's more than just a new EV; it’s an entirely new and captivating Acura model. The RSX will embody nearly four decades of Acura's 'Precision Crafted Performance' brand identity through its compelling design and state-of-the-art technology.” Acura leveraged the inherent design flexibility offered by the new electric vehicle platform, resulting in a sleek yet assertive aesthetic for the vehicle.

Aerodynamic Excellence and Bold Aesthetics

Yasutake Tsuchida, Acura Creative Director and Vice President of American Honda R&D, highlighted the design's focus on "outstanding aerodynamic performance." He elaborated, “The Acura RSX boasts a sporty coupe-like profile that visually communicates the performance gains from its superior aerodynamics. Beginning with this entirely new RSX, we aim to redefine the Acura brand around a timeless elegance and a technologically advanced feel, crucial for a performance-oriented and distinctive brand.”

Promising Performance and Advanced Features

Currently, the design is the primary information available regarding the Acura RSX, as specific technical specifications have not yet been disclosed. However, it has been confirmed that the RSX will feature a powerful dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, a sport-tuned double-wishbone front suspension, a low center of gravity, and Brembo brakes, all of which Acura indicates will be standard. Furthermore, Acura has announced that the RSX will be the first vehicle equipped with Honda’s new ASIMO operating system. This advanced OS is designed to offer a personalized driving experience, akin to smartphone operating systems, and will support over-the-air updates to introduce new customizable features and services. The ASIMO OS will also incorporate machine learning capabilities, enabling it to adapt to individual driving preferences and personalize the vehicle to user specifications. Finally, Acura has confirmed the RSX will feature bi-directional charging capabilities, allowing the vehicle to power external devices (V2X) and even supply electricity back to a home (V2H).

Lucid Motors has unequivocally dismissed recent assertions regarding the sales performance of its new Gravity SUV. Despite a report circulating that indicated a mere nine registrations for the vehicle in its first half-year on the market, the electric vehicle manufacturer has come forward to clarify that actual deliveries significantly exceed this figure, reaching well into the three-digit range. This swift rebuttal aims to correct any misconceptions about the market uptake of its highly anticipated electric SUV.

The Lucid Gravity is an impressive electric sport utility vehicle, boasting remarkable specifications. It offers an extensive driving range, capable of traveling up to 450 miles on a single charge. Furthermore, its interior design provides more generous space than a Ford Explorer. Performance-wise, with up to 828 horsepower, it delivers acceleration that rivals many high-performance sports cars. However, a recent Automotive News article, referencing S&P Global Mobility data, suggested that the Gravity had secured only nine registrations during its initial six months on the market, sparking concern and speculation within the industry.

In response to the circulating reports, Nick Twork, the head of communications for Lucid, issued a direct statement, confirming the claim was \"completely inaccurate.\" He further elaborated that anecdotal evidence from customer social media postings also contradicted the low registration figures, reinforcing Lucid's position. While the company did not provide precise numerical breakdowns, Twork affirmed that Gravity deliveries had comfortably entered the three-digit bracket, indicating a more robust market presence than rumored.

Looking ahead, Lucid anticipates a significant increase in the production and delivery of the Gravity SUV during the latter half of the current year. On the company's second-quarter earnings call, interim CEO Marc Winterhoff highlighted that most supply chain obstacles, including a widespread magnet shortage, had been largely overcome. This progress has enabled Lucid to commence a substantial ramp-up in Gravity production. Winterhoff also noted a near doubling of daily order rates since the Gravity models became available for display and test drives in company studios, signaling growing consumer interest.

Lucid's proactive measures played a crucial role in preventing a production halt in the second quarter. The company successfully manufactured over 6,000 vehicles during this period, demonstrating its resilience and operational efficiency. Although Lucid revised its production forecast for 2025 slightly downward to between 18,000 and 20,000 units, citing evolving market conditions, its strategic partnerships continue to expand. Notably, Lucid secured a collaboration with Uber and Nuro, planning to deploy 20,000 Gravity robotaxis over the next six years, with Uber investing $300 million in the venture. Meanwhile, the Lucid Air has maintained its position as the leading luxury electric sedan in the United States, surpassing sales of competitive models like the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan, as well as many conventional fuel-powered vehicles in its class during the first half of 2025.

Lucid's commitment to innovation and market expansion remains evident, with strategic partnerships and production ramp-ups poised to enhance its footprint in the evolving electric vehicle landscape. The company's steadfast denial of the low sales figures for the Gravity SUV, coupled with its optimistic outlook for increased production and future collaborations, underscores a strong belief in its product line and overall business trajectory within the competitive EV sector.