Acura is set to unveil an electric SUV concept at the 2024 Monterey Car Week, showcasing a new direction for the luxury automaker. The unveiling comes as part of Acura’s broader plan to accelerate its electric vehicle offerings in the U.S. market. In a teaser photo released by Acura, the upcoming EV is based on an in-house-developed dedicated EV platform, signaling a shift towards producing their own electric vehicles.
A Bold New Direction
The electric SUV concept is just the beginning of Acura’s electric vehicle lineup, with plans to produce a production version of the concept at their Marysville Auto Plant in Ohio. The shift to electric vehicles is part of Acura and Honda’s larger strategy to bring more electric options to the market. Honda has recently introduced the 2024 Acura ZDX and 2024 Honda Prologue, both of which are built on General Motors’ Ultium EV platform.
In-House Development
The new electric SUV concept will utilize Acura and Honda’s own BEV platform, a significant departure from their previous reliance on GM’s platform. This move will allow Acura to have greater control over the design and performance of their electric vehicles, providing a more tailored product for their customers. The platform will feature an electric and electronic (E&E) architecture that incorporates Honda’s own vehicle operating system and in-vehicle software, promising a seamless user experience.
Made in America
Production of the electric SUV will take place at the Marysville Auto Plant in Ohio, highlighting Acura’s commitment to American manufacturing. The plant will also be the site of the battery production, in partnership with LG. This localized production strategy will not only benefit the local economy but also ensure a more sustainable and reliable supply chain for Acura’s electric vehicles.
Looking Towards the Future
With a targeted range of 300 miles or more, the Acura electric SUV is poised to be a competitive player in the electric vehicle market. The flexibility of the platform allows for vehicles in various segments, with the initial focus on mid-to-large SUVs. Acura’s electric SUV is expected to be part of Honda’s 0 Series family of EVs, signaling a new era of electric offerings from the automaker.
Monterey Car Week Debut
The electric SUV concept is set to debut at the 2024 Monterey Car Week, a premier automotive event that attracts enthusiasts from around the world. Acura has not specified which event the concept will be presented at, but with events like The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Monterey Car Week is the perfect platform to showcase a groundbreaking new electric vehicle. Stay tuned for more details on Acura’s electric SUV concept and the future of electric vehicles from the luxury automaker.