Acura RSX Prototype: Honda teases first model on new electric platform
Although the RSX Prototype is still a concept car, the published images reveal it to be much closer to a production model than an abstract concept car; a distinction that was not shared by the Acura Performance EV Concept, which was unveiled about a year ago. The steep front end with its striking two-tone paintwork transitions into a flat, fairly long hood. The roofline slopes down early and curves in the style of an SUV coupé, and the rather rugged doors are also striking when viewed from the side. The relatively narrow headlights on the concept car could only be LED daytime running lights, but there are no main headlights integrated into the bumper, but this could still change before the series is launched. However, the RSX Prototype already has a charging flap (between the front wheel and the driver’s door) and door handles, which indicates that it is close to the series model.
When it comes to the drive system, Acura only mentions an “all-wheel drive, sport-tuned double wishbone front suspension, low centre-of-gravity and Brembo brakes – all standard.” In terms of technology, perhaps with the exception of the Brembo brakes and the sporty tuning of the chassis, the RSX will borrow heavily from the underlying Honda platform. Honda has so far only provided rudimentary data on the models in the ‘0 Series’, but according to reports, a 180 kW rear motor will be combined with a 50 kW motor on the front axle. The battery size is not yet known, but the range is expected to be 300 miles (just over 480 kilometres) according to the American EPA procedure.
Acura is not yet providing detailed information on the technology of the future production RSX, but it is providing information on production. The RSX will be produced next year at Honda’s flexible manufacturing facility at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio, “using domestic and globally made parts.” The Honda EV Hub is the Marysville Auto Plant, where the RSX will be built on a production line alongside the combustion-engine Acura Integra. The corresponding Honda models will also be built there. The first two US electric cars from Honda and Acura, the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX, are still based on GM’s Ultium platform and are built by General Motors.
Currently, only images of the exterior design are available, but the production model is also set to feature an important interior innovation with the Asimo OS. With its own operating system, the company wrote that it wants to “accelerate Acura into the Software Defined Vehicle era.” Asimo OS is designed to learn the preferences and driving behaviour of the vehicle owner.
“The dramatic styling of our Acura RSX Prototype demonstrates that it’s not just a new EV, but a compelling all-new Acura model,” said Lance Woelfer, Vice President of Sales at American Honda Motor Co. “RSX will deliver on nearly four decades of Acura Precision Crafted Performance brand DNA with appealing design and cutting-edge technology.”
“The Acura RSX has a sporty coupe style that expresses the performance that comes from excellent aerodynamics,” added Yasutake Tsuchida, Acura Creative Director and Vice President of American Honda R&D. “Starting from this all-new RSX we will redefine the Acura brand around timeless beauty and a high-tech feel that is essential for a performance and unique brand.”
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