Honda and Acura are not giving up on EVs
Honda and its sister automaker Acura are about to unleash a new wave of EVs onto showroom floors. Sort of. One of them is a joint venture, while the upcoming Acura RSX EV is technically still a prototype. Still, we expect to see these vehicles on U.S. roads by late 2025 and into 2026.
The big takeaway? Even with Honda slowing long-term EV development, these models show the company is still serious about EVs today. Importantly, they also mark a shift away from Honda’s earlier partnership with GM. Both the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX relied on GM-sourced batteries, powertrains, and tech as a quick way into the EV space. The upcoming lineup signals a stronger commitment to in-house development.
We have different tidbits of information regarding each vehicle. Based on what was released and what I was told at each event. I was lucky enough to see each vehicle in person, and with the Honda and the Afeela 1, I was able to sample the interiors. Out of all of these upcoming EVs, the Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1 should be in production first.
Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1
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The first to arrive will be the Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1, a sleek liftback created under the Sony-Honda joint venture. Think of it as Honda’s engineering blended with Sony’s entertainment and AI expertise.
- Drivetrain: Dual-motor AWD, 483 horsepower
- Battery: 91 kWh; 300-mile range
- Highlights: AI-powered cockpit, OTA updates, advanced sensors, futuristic infotainment experience
This model leans heavily on tech and user experience, aiming to bring something distinct to the mid-size EV segment. Out of all of these designs, the Afeela 1 looks modern, if a bit pedestrian. At the very least, it’s not what I would call “polarizing,” and the lines are succinct. It is restrained outside and rather striking on the inside.
Acura RSX EV
Acura
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Back in 2002, Honda replaced the Integra with the RSX—a sporty hatchback that built a cult following. The new Acura RSX EV revives the name but reinvents the mission: this is Acura’s first homegrown EV.
- Design: Fastback proportions, flared arches, Brembo brakes, full-width rear lighting
- Platform: Shorter wheelbase than the ZDX, previewing Acura’s next design language
- Tech: Asimo OS with deep personalization, OTA updates, bidirectional charging
Production is slated for late 2025, with customer deliveries expected in 2026. It’s positioned as a performance-oriented EV with a digital-first edge. This is one of those vehicles that I find looks better from the rear quarter, thanks to the fastback design mixed with the shapely ducktail integrated spoiler.
Honda 0 Series: Saloon & SUV
Honda
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Honda’s biggest push comes with the 0 Series, launching in 2026 with a new dedicated EV platform.
- Philosophy: “Thin, Light, Wise” design ethos
- Engineering: Thin battery pack, compact e-axles, active aerodynamics
- Interior: Spacious minimalist layouts powered by Asimo OS, with Level 3 autonomy in the works
Expect the 0 Series SUV to land first, followed by the sleeker 0 Series Saloon. Both aim to balance efficiency, elegance, and advanced tech. One cool feature, which I doubt will see production, is the Honda 0 Saloon’s sliding headlight covers. It’s a nod to old-school pop-up headlights, and, mixed with its Blade Runner design ethic, it’s undeniably cool.
If you put a Honda 0 SUV next to a Honda CR-V, you would see two vehicles that have similar proportions. That’s intentional. The CR-V is one of the best-selling vehicles in its class and one of Honda’s best-selling models ever. Looking at the Honda 0 SUV, you’ll find smooth lines, few gaps, and a very modern overall take on what a small SUV can be.
Summary table
| Model | Launch | Platform | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Honda 0 Saloon / SUV |
2026 |
Dedicated 0 Series EV |
Asimo OS, Level 3 autonomy, “Thin/Light/Wise” build |
|
Acura RSX EV |
Late 2025 → 2026 |
Acura’s in-house EV platform |
Sporty fastback, OTA updates, bidirectional charging |
|
Afeela 1 |
Mid-2026 |
Sony Honda Mobility |
483 hp dual-motor, ~300 mi range, AI-focused cockpit |
Honda
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Final thoughts
The EV market may be cooling, but Honda and Acura are far from bowing out. Instead, they’re taking a more measured approach, pairing in-house development with strategic partnerships. For consumers, this means more diverse options—from tech-heavy luxury to practical, efficient crossovers.
Backing this up, Honda is investing heavily in Ohio with a new “EV Hub,” a $1 billion retooling of existing plants, plus a $4.4 billion joint venture with LG Energy Solution for battery production. These moves will give Honda flexible production capacity, allowing it to build gasoline, hybrid, and EV models on the same line.
It’s not the EV surge we once expected, but Honda and Acura’s next wave of vehicles shows they’re not abandoning the segment. Progress may be slower, but their strategy reflects a measured approach to meet demand without overpromising on mass adoption.