Honda is entering the long-range electric vehicle market with its new 0 Series platform. The lineup includes the Acura RSX, a dual-motor compact crossover coupe set to launch in the first half of 2026.

Until now, Honda had not produced a true long-range EV for the U.S. market. Its global electric models have received mixed reviews, leaving the company behind rivals that moved into electrification earlier.

What the 0 Series Brings to the Table

The Acura RSX represents the first model built on Honda’s new software-defined architecture. According to the company, all 0 Series vehicles will run on Honda’s Asimo OS, a system that includes a built-in AI assistant and supports over-the-air software updates.

Honda has said the RSX should offer more than 300 miles of range, putting it in a competitive position against other compact electric SUVs already on the market. Two additional models, the 0 Series SUV and 0 Series Saloon, are expected to follow, although the Saloon’s launch has been delayed until 2027.

Why This Matters for the EV Market

Honda’s slow approach to electrification has been a notable gap in its lineup, especially as competitors expanded their EV offerings. The 0 Series represents the company’s attempt to prove it can build a competitive, software-driven electric vehicle from the ground up.

The inclusion of an AI assistant and over-the-air updates also reflects a broader industry shift. Automakers are increasingly building vehicles that can improve over time through software, rather than requiring hardware changes for new features.

What This Means for Drivers

For consumers, Honda’s entry adds another serious option in the long-range EV segment, particularly for shoppers who have stuck with gas-powered Honda or Acura models while waiting for a credible electric alternative.

The success of the RSX could also influence how willing Honda is to expand its EV lineup further, including more affordable models in segments like compact sedans, a category many EV shoppers feel is currently underserved.

The Bigger Picture

Honda’s 0 Series launch is as much about catching up as it is about proving long-term capability. With software-defined vehicles becoming a major focus across the auto industry, how well Honda’s first attempt performs could shape its electric strategy for years to come.