Acura has taken a bold step forward in its electrification journey with the unveiling of the Acura Performance EV Concept. This striking concept car not only sets the stage for Acura’s next all-electric model, expected to debut next year, but also offers a tantalizing preview of the brand’s future design language and engineering prowess.

A Vision of Electrified Performance

Building on the momentum of the recently launched 2024 Acura ZDX, the Acura Performance EV Concept represents the pinnacle of Acura’s commitment to delivering an exhilarating driving experience in the electric era. According to Mike Langel, assistant vice president of Acura National Sales, this concept marks “the exciting next step in our electrification strategy,” with a design that will heavily influence the next all-electric Acura SUV.

Design Inspired by Performance

The Acura Performance EV Concept is a masterclass in design, seamlessly blending form and function. Its aggressive front fascia, inspired by the high-tech aesthetics of hydrofoil superyachts, sets the tone for a vehicle that is as dynamic as it is visually arresting. The vented hood, which extends forward from the A-pillars, and the deeply sculpted side surfaces with prominent vents, highlight the car’s aerodynamic focus.

The concept’s expressive coupe-like silhouette, finished in a captivating “Moonlit White Pearl” paint with a semi-matte finish, is sure to turn heads. The teardrop cabin, upswept decklid, and full-width taillight draw inspiration from the second-generation NSX, creating a rear design that is both sharp and distinctive. The “ACURA” branding on the tailgate, presented in a new font unique to the brand’s electrified vehicles, adds a final touch of modernity to this futuristic design.

Engineering Excellence

Underneath its stunning exterior, the Acura Performance EV Concept is built on Acura’s next-generation EV platform, which allows for unprecedented design freedom. As Dave Marek, Acura Design Executive, explains, this platform enables Acura to “push the boundaries of Acura design even further,” resulting in a vehicle that is as powerful as it is beautiful.

The concept’s long wheelbase, short overhangs, and muscular wheel arches emphasize its athletic stance, while massive 23-inch wheels wrapped in wide 295/35R23 performance tires ensure that it stays firmly planted on the road. The sculptural wheel design, with its brushed machined edges and unique spoke pattern, gives the impression of movement even when the vehicle is stationary.

Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the drilled high-performance brakes at all four corners, each featuring striking neon green Acura scripting that ties back to the Acura Electric Vision Design Study revealed at Monterey Car Week in 2023.

A Milestone in Acura’s Electric Journey

The Acura Performance EV Concept is the latest in a line of visionary Acura concept vehicles showcased at Monterey Car Week over the past decade. Following in the footsteps of the NSX Concept (2013), Precision Concept (2016), Type S Concept (2019), and Precision EV Concept (2022), this new concept is set to make its public debut at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, on August 16th. It will also be featured on the Concept Lawn at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 18th.

Honda’s Commitment to Electric Vehicles

Acura’s electrification efforts are part of a broader strategy by Honda to lead the EV revolution in North America. The establishment of the Honda EV Hub in Ohio marks a significant milestone in this journey, with the Marysville Auto Plant set to begin EV production in late 2025. Honda’s commitment to this transformation is underscored by a $700 million investment in its Ohio facilities, including the East Liberty Auto Plant and Anna Engine Plant.

The Honda EV Hub will also be home to the L-H Battery Company, Inc., a joint venture with LG Energy Solution. This state-of-the-art facility, scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, will have an annual capacity of approximately 40GWh, providing the power needed to drive Honda’s ambitious EV plans.

The Future of Acura is Electric

As Acura continues to innovate and push the boundaries of automotive design and engineering, the Acura Performance EV Concept stands as a beacon of what’s to come. With its groundbreaking design, advanced platform, and commitment to performance, this concept car is not just a glimpse into the future—it’s a bold statement that Acura is ready to lead the charge in the electrified era.