Next spring Acura is going to release the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, which features a new 377-hp three-motor hybrid system.
Next spring Acura is going to release the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, which features a new 377-hp three-motor hybrid system. The RLX is the first Acura model to feature the new 377-hp hybrid system, which combines a V-6 engine with a new 7-speed dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor and an electrically powered variant of Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.
Acura hasn’t released all the performance specs, but it does claim that the RLX Sport Hybrid runs a 0-60 mph time comparable with competitor’s V8-powered sedans. But the best part is that even though it can keep up with its V8-powered competitors, the RLX Sport Hybrid is rated at 28/32 mpg.
How does it all work? Acura started with a 3.5-liter, 310-horsepower that is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends its power to the front wheels. The electric SH-AWD system eliminates the conventional drive shaft and rear differential, replacing them with two 27-kilowatt electric motors. The rear motors dynamically distribute both positive (drive) and negative (regenerative braking) electric-motor torque. The system is further aided by a 35-kilowatt front electric motor that supplements engine torque to the front wheels and provides regenerative brake torque to charge the vehicle’s 260-volt lithium-ion battery pack.
Take note! This hybrid system is a preview of what we can expect in the next NSX.
Source: Acura
