It has been revealed that Honda’s flagship sports car, the NSX, which ceased production in 2022, will be revived as a fully electric vehicle in 2027. The new NSX is positioned as a strategic model that will play a central role in Honda’s “Honda 0 Series” initiative.
Background and strategy behind the revival of the new NSX
The intention behind the revival of the new NSX:
- A symbol of Honda’s sports car technology in the electrified era
- Development of cutting-edge racing technology into production vehicles in conjunction with the return to F1
- Serves as a test bed for next-generation EV technology
- Increase Honda brand value in the global market
DNA inherited from the first and second generations
Second generation NSX
Since its first appearance in 1990, the NSX has adhered to the concept of being a “supercar that anyone can handle.” The new model continues this philosophy, adopting a design that emphasizes practicality for everyday use while still offering high performance .
Evolution of the NSX over the years:
- First generation (1990-2005) : All-aluminum body, V6 VTEC engine
- Second generation (2016-2022) : 3.5L V6 twin-turbo + 3-motor hybrid
- Third generation (scheduled for 2027) : Fully electric, over 1,000 horsepower, and planned to be equipped with solid-state batteries
Overwhelming performance achieved through EV conversion
1020 horsepower electric powertrain
The biggest feature of the new NSX is the electric motor that delivers a maximum output of 1,020 horsepower , which is a significant increase over the previous model’s 581 horsepower (610 horsepower for the Type S), finally reaching the four-digit horsepower range.
Powertrain details:
- Drive system : Electric AWD system
- Maximum output : 1020ps
- Front-to-rear weight distribution : 42:58 (rear-biased design)
- 0-100km/h acceleration : expected in the low 2-second range
- Top speed : Over 300km/h
Innovative electric AWD system
The new NSX employs the e-SH-AWD electric AWD system , which instantly controls the output of the front and rear motors . This is an evolution of the previous SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD system, achieving even more precise torque distribution.
e-SH-AWD features:
- Torque distribution between the front and rear and left and right is controlled in units of 1/1000 of a second
- Improved cornering performance through coordinated control with regenerative braking
- Look-ahead control using slip prediction technology
- Optimal driving force distribution according to road conditions
Adoption of all-solid-state battery technology
The new NSX is likely to be equipped with solid-state batteries , which Honda is currently developing, and will achieve performance that significantly exceeds that of conventional lithium-ion batteries.
Advantages of solid-state batteries:
- Range : 650km (WLTC estimated value)
- Charging time : 80% charge in 10 minutes (estimated)
- Safety : Greatly reduced risk of thermal runaway
- Weight reduction : Approximately 30% weight reduction compared to conventional models
Innovative design and aerodynamics
Honda 0 Series thin platform
The new NSX uses a thin EV platform exclusive to the Honda 0 Series , which allows for an ultra-low center of gravity that was previously impossible with conventional engine vehicles.
Platform Features:
- Floor height reduced by 50mm compared to previous model
- Low center of gravity achieved through optimal battery placement
- High-rigidity aluminum space frame structure
- Ideal front-to-rear weight distribution
Exterior designed for aerodynamic performance
The design of the new NSX is characterized by aerodynamics that pursue functional beauty . Through repeated wind tunnel testing, the balance between downforce and air resistance has been optimized.
Key exterior features:
- Front : Low-profile nose, LED matrix headlights
- Side : Wide and low silhouette reminiscent of previous NSX models
- Rear : Large diffuser, active spoiler
- Body size : Length 4520mm x Width 1955mm x Height 1215mm (estimated)
Active aerodynamics
To ensure stability at high speeds, the car is fully equipped with an active aero system that automatically adjusts aerodynamic characteristics according to speed and driving mode.
Active Aero Features:
- Variable front splitter
- Active rear spoiler (3-stage adjustment)
- Intelligent Cooling Air Duct
- Automatic opening and closing grill shutter
Next-generation interiors and AI technology
Driver-centric digital cockpit
The interior of the new NSX is a digital space that combines a futuristic feel with functionality . All controls are optimally positioned within the driver’s reach, ensuring ease of use during sporty driving.
Main interior features:
- Fully digital meter : 12.3-inch high-resolution display
- HUD (Head-Up Display) : Driving information is projected onto the windshield
- Center display : 14-inch ultra-wide touchscreen
- Multi-function steering wheel : Built-in driving mode selector switch
AI voice assistant “Honda SENSING AI”
The new NSX comes standard with a next-generation AI voice assistant , which uses natural language processing to enable intuitive voice control.
AI voice assistant features:
- Voice control of air conditioning, navigation and audio
- Personal optimization function that learns driver preferences
- Voice reporting of vehicle status
- Linked to automatic emergency reporting system
Premium materials used
The interior is crafted with the finest materials and craftsmanship , achieving a quality feel comparable to that of a luxury car, despite being a sports car.
Interior material details:
- Seats : Genuine leather + Alcantara combination
- Dashboard : Carbon fiber trim
- Steering wheel : Leather wrapped, performance grip
- Pedals : Aluminum sports pedals as standard equipment
Price, release date, and competitive comparison
Estimated price starts from 25 million yen
Pricing for the new NSX is expected to start at 25 million yen , a slight increase from the base grade of the previous model (24.2 million yen), but a very reasonable price considering the improved performance.
Expected grade composition:
- Standard grade : 25 million yen
- Type S : 28 million yen
- Type R : 32 million yen (estimated limited sales)
Schedule for release in 2027
The development and release schedule for the new NSX is expected to be as follows:
Development and release schedule:
- 2025 : Prototype expected to be unveiled
- Late 2026 : Pre-production model unveiled
- Spring 2027 : Release in Japan
- Summer 2027 : North American (Acura) launch
Comparison with major competitors
The new NSX is expected to establish a unique position in the increasingly competitive EV supercar market.
Comparison of major competitors:
| Car model | Drive system | Maximum power | Price (estimated) | Release date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New NSX | EV | 1020ps | 25 million yen and up | 2027 |
| Lexus LFR | EV/PHEV | 1000ps class | 38 million yen and up | 2028 |
| Nissan GT-R EV | EV | 900ps class | From 28 million yen | 2028 |
| Toyota GR Supra EV | EV | 800ps class | 20 million yen and up | 2025 |
Global Strategy and the Acura Brand
The new NSX will be sold under the Acura brand in North America , with the aim of enhancing brand value and expanding sales in the global market.
Global expansion strategy:
- Japan : Limited sale under the Honda brand
- North America : Mainly under the Acura brand
- Europe : Small number of vehicles sold under the Honda brand
- Asia : Different brands depending on the market
summary
The new NSX is the most important model in Honda’s electrification strategy , and its return in 2027 is expected to be a sure thing. It is expected to be a flagship model that generously incorporates cutting-edge technology, including a 1020 horsepower EV powertrain, solid-state battery technology, and next-generation AI functions.
Highlights of the new NSX:
- ✅Overwhelming performance : 1020 horsepower, 0-100km/h in 2 seconds
- ✅Advanced EV technology : solid-state battery, 650km range
- ✅Innovative design : ultra-low center of gravity, advanced aerodynamics
- ✅Next -generation equipment : AI voice assistance, full digitalization
- ✅ Competitive prices : Strategic pricing starting from 25 million yen
The new NSX inherits the philosophy of the previous NSX as a “supercar that anyone can handle,” while also being equipped with innovative performance and equipment suited to the electrified era. Its arrival is highly anticipated as the start of a new legend in the Japanese automotive industry.
