During the previous year, it was confirmed by Honda that among their 30 electric vehicles slated for debut by 2030, a pair of sports cars will be included. One of these will be a successor labeled as a “flagship” to the Acura NSX, while the other model remains vaguely described as a “specialty” offering. There are indications that the latter vehicle might make its debut this year, as hinted by a high-ranking official from Honda Motor Europe.
“We hold great affection for sports cars,” conveyed Tom Gardner, the vice president of Honda Motor Europe, in an interview with Autocar. “We cherish performance and are truly appreciative of the enthusiastic response we received for the latest [Civic] Type R. The demand is substantial, and the performance has been exceedingly well-received.”
“Keep an eye on this space: [2023 marks] 75 years [of Honda automobiles]—we celebrated the S2000 at its 50th; what’s next is still a mystery.”
Honda’s electric sports cars, foreshadowed in 2022. Honda
Past remarks by Honda executives have given insight into which of the two sports cars we can anticipate this year. Honda typically unveils a new NSX when it aims to showcase its prowess, when it is keen on proving a point and establishing its reputation, often necessitating technology that is not yet widely feasible. Last year, the CEO of Honda mentioned that the company will abstain from producing an electric Type R until solid-state batteries become viable. If Honda is not willing to compromise on lesser batteries for a Type R model, it seems improbable that they would for a flagship vehicle like the NSX.
As a result, the only plausible option left is the “specialty” model. Unfortunately, there haven’t been any clear indications yet of the form this car may take. Since the discontinuation of the S2000 in 2009, enthusiasts have been yearning for its revival, but an electric version may not be embraced as an authentic heir. It would also have to compete with the refined and resolute Mazda MX-5. Another plausible scenario is that it may resemble the 2017 Honda Sports EV concept showcased here, albeit requiring a design revamp.
2017 Honda Sports EV concept. Honda
Currently, all that’s certain is that a possible (most likely electric) sports car is on the horizon and could arrive sooner than we think. After nearly a decade and a half without anything between the Civic and NSX, its arrival would be warmly received.
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