It may have arrived late to the electrification party, but Honda has some serious plans for the bustling sector. The Japanese brand recently announced it will introduce as many as 30 EV models by 2030; a tall order considering the automaker currently offers no battery-powered vehicles in the US.
As part of the announcement, the Tokyo-based company teased two new electric sports cars that will form part of this EV onslaught. While both are hidden under wraps, the sleekly styled model on the right bears a striking resemblance to the current-generation Acura NSX (which is sold as a Honda in other markets).
Sadly, the mid-engined supercar isn't long for this world, as the Type S was confirmed to be a limited edition send-off for the current generation, although a glimmer of hope was given for an electric successor.
Equally as striking as the NSX is the vehicle to its left. Not as dramatic as the would-be NSX successor, the elegant profile suggests a more usable sports car or grand tourer. This could materialize as an electrified S2000 replacement or maybe even a high-end GT car under the Acura nameplate. Honda doesn't give much away but does describe the pair as "a specialty and a flagship model, which will embody Honda's universal sports mindset and distinctive characteristics."
It's not all just beautiful sports cars, though. In North America, Honda plans to introduce two midsize to large EVs by 2024, developed jointly with General Motors. This will include the Prologue SUV, along with a fully electric Acura SUV. In its home market of Japan, the brand is taking a different direction by first offering an affordable and compact EV for the commercial sector. Personal-use models will follow shortly thereafter.
The world's biggest automotive market will receive the most models. China can look forward to no less than 10 EVs by 2027, although Honda has shared no details as to what they may be. A year before that, in 2026, the carmaker plans to introduce the Honda e: Architecture, a vehicle platform that combines both hardware and software.
Together with GM, Honda is aiming to introduce much-needed affordable EVs in 2027, with a cost and range that will rival gasoline-powered vehicles. This initiative will start in North America, a market where affordable EVs are sorely needed.
The brand also plans to set up a dedicated EV production line on the continent, to bolster the planned EV plants in China. This will come into play as Honda is aiming for an annual production volume of two million units globally. As the race toward electrification heats up, we're glad one brand has remained committed to the sports car. An electric NSX is definitely something to look forward to.