Electric Cars

Ford is ushering in a new era of automotive innovation with the anticipated launch of its affordable midsize electric pickup. This strategic move, centered around the novel Ford Universal EV Platform, aims to democratize electric vehicle ownership, potentially signaling the gradual phasing out of traditional gasoline-powered SUVs. The company's commitment to cost-effective, spacious EVs reflects a broader industry shift towards sustainable mobility, promising a transformative impact on consumer choices and market dynamics.

Ford Unveils Future-Forward EV Strategy in Kentucky

On a pivotal Monday in August 2025, at its sprawling Louisville, Kentucky, assembly plant, Ford unveiled ambitious plans for its next-generation electric vehicles. The centerpiece of this announcement was a pioneering midsize electric pickup truck, poised to become Ford's contemporary \"Model T\" for the electric age. This vehicle is projected to debut with an accessible starting price point of around $30,000, promising a lower total cost of ownership compared to Tesla's popular Model Y.

A cornerstone of this electrifying transformation is the newly introduced Ford Universal EV Platform. This adaptable architecture, also revealed at the Kentucky event, is engineered to provide superior interior volume and will serve as the foundation for an entire family of economical electric vehicles. Ford’s vision is to produce highly competitive EVs that challenge existing market paradigms.

Production of the new midsize electric pickup is slated to commence in 2027 at the Louisville Assembly plant, necessitating a significant restructuring of current manufacturing operations. Consequently, Ford confirmed the retirement of two prominent internal combustion engine (ICE) SUVs: the Ford Escape and the Lincoln Corsair. Both models, currently assembled at the facility, will cease production after the 2026 model year, clearing the path for the electric future.

This decision, while strategically sound for Ford's EV transition, came as a surprise to many, given the Ford Escape's status as the company's second-best-selling SUV, trailing only the Explorer. In the first half of 2025, the Escape notably outsold the Bronco Sport, demonstrating its enduring popularity. Similarly, the Lincoln Corsair held the position of the second-highest-selling Lincoln brand model through June, underscoring its significant market presence.

Despite the impending production halt later this year, Ford has assured consumers that both the Escape and Corsair will remain available for sale well into 2026. This phased transition allows for an orderly shift while maintaining market presence. Ford has committed approximately $5 billion in investments to its Louisville Assembly Complex, a substantial financial outlay designed to prepare the facility for the manufacturing demands of its next wave of electric vehicles and to foster the creation of nearly 4,000 new jobs.

Reflections on Ford's Electric Leap and the Evolving Automotive Landscape

Ford's bold strategic pivot toward an affordable electric pickup signifies more than just a new product launch; it represents a profound shift in the automotive industry's very foundation. From a reporter's perspective, this move embodies a conscious effort to democratize electric mobility, making advanced EV technology accessible to a wider demographic. The "Model T" analogy is particularly apt, hinting at Ford's ambition to replicate the widespread adoption seen with its historical gasoline counterpart, but this time, with clean energy.

This transition also underscores the undeniable pressure on traditional automakers to adapt and innovate in the face of environmental concerns and evolving consumer preferences. The discontinuation of well-established and profitable ICE models like the Escape and Corsair is a testament to Ford's conviction in its electric future and a recognition that the long-term viability of the industry lies in sustainable alternatives. It's a clear signal that the era of the internal combustion engine is gradually, but definitively, drawing to a close. For consumers, this heralds an exciting period of new choices, blending utility with environmental responsibility. The industry is in a fascinating state of flux, and Ford’s decisive action is a powerful indicator of the direction we are all heading.

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).