Acura Automobiles: 2017 Acura NSX Press Kit

The NSX was created to revolutionize supercar performance, delivering a more vivid, immediate and intuitive dynamic experience with instant acceleration, ultra-powerful yet easily controlled brakes, and exceptional handling—making the most of the driver’s capabilities in every type of driving environment and rewarding the most skillful drivers with its extraordinary at-the-limit dynamic capabilities.

To achieve these qualities, the 2017 NSX enjoyed a design and engineering approach leveraging Acura’s global development muscle while using the company’s latest simulation and development techniques, with every aspect designed to deliver a New Sports eXperience. Here are the primary attributes contributing to the NSX’s superlative dynamics:

  • Ultimate Body/Frame Rigidity – Unparalleled structural rigidity transmits the full feeling of the power unit, suspension, and steering directly to the driver with no delay, while maximizing the effectiveness of direct yaw control to improve vehicle dynamics.
  • Low Center of Gravity and Centralized Mass – The NSX’s “advanced sports package” prioritizes design and packaging of all major vehicle systems to lower and center the mass of the vehicle for incredible handling and dynamic response.
  • Aerodynamic Balance – Optimized front-to-rear downforce balance for outstanding high speed handling stability
  • Mechanical Grip and Poise – Advanced, lightweight suspension and steering systems are carefully calibrated to work with street and track-ready tire options, and all other dynamic systems.
  • Super Sports Brakes – Powerful, linear, predictable and virtually fade-free braking performance in all driving conditions via the seamless integration of high-performance mechanical (Brembo hydraulic) and regenerative braking.
  • Direct Yaw Control – Sport Hybrid SH-AWD provides “active” all-wheel drive and enhanced handling capability via the dynamic apportioning of TMU motor torque. The “direct yaw control” of this electrified torque vectoring system creates a yaw moment under any driving condition to achieve the driver’s desired cornering line.
  • Instant, Powerful and Controllable Acceleration – Immediate and powerful acceleration G force from the moment the driver engages the throttle, enhanced by the instant torque response of three electric motors working in concert with the bespoke, twin-turbocharged V6 and lightning fast 9-speed dual clutch transmission (9DCT)
  • Integrated Dynamics System – To better access NSX’s ability to serve the driver’s desires, the Integrated Dynamics System uses 11 systems in four distinct settings that encompass the widest range of driving needs.

Ultimate Structural Rigidity
Like the original Acura NSX—the world’s first all-aluminum supercar—the all-new NSX has a cutting-edge structure: its multi-material body and space frame utilize new materials and construction methods to create a structure with unprecedented dynamic rigidity.

The ultra-rigid space frame uses aluminum castings (shown in yellow) for all suspension mounting points.

  • Unmatched dynamic torsional rigidity – Directly responds to the driver’s cornering demands, instantly transmitting those inputs to the chassis while maintaining perfect connection between front and rear axles, communicating both the driver’s action and any changes in the road surface with the utmost fidelity.
  • Ultra-high local chassis rigidity – Each chassis component is mounted to a rigid casting supported by extruded aluminum frame members that act like “truss structures” such that high local attachment area stiffness is ensured in all directions, helping to maintain the precisely-designed chassis geometry at all times.

Low and Centered Mass
The new Acura NSX “advanced sports package” is a design philosophy that seeks to optimize the design and packaging of all major vehicle systems—the body, chassis, interior, Sport Hybrid power unit (engine, Direct Drive Motor and 9DCT) and key hybrid components including the Intelligent Power Unit (containing the lithium-ion battery pack), PDU and the TMU—to lower and center the mass of the vehicle for optimal handling and dynamic response. The new NSX has the lowest center of gravity (CG) among its core competitors.

The low CG and centered mass pay dividends in handling and response. Biasing the mass toward the center of the NSX reduces the polar moment, making the car respond (yaw rate) faster to steering inputs and reducing its rotational kinetic energy. In other words, it’s easier to initiate a turn, and easier to stop the rotation. The low CG also reduces the dynamic load transfer, thus stabilizing the vertical load on the tires.

The payoffs are quick and precise response to driver inputs, minimal unwanted body movement, and stable tire grip—thus raising the performance levels.

A Tight Grip on the Road
The NSX’s front double wishbone and rear multi-link suspension systems were designed to support the extreme dynamic needs of this unique supercar, and work in perfect harmony with SH-AWD and all other systems.

An advanced double-joint front suspension design eliminates torque steer and steering kickback. The rear multi-link suspension provides high lateral rigidity to react faithfully to driver inputs and maintain stability.

Third-generation magnetorheological (MR) dampers continuously adjust damping forces in fractions of a second, instantaneously adapting to the driving situation, driver inputs and road conditions.

The system maintains the precise design geometry to extract the maximum grip and control from the tires. Agile at low speeds, yet supremely stable and predictable at high speeds, the NSX faithfully translates the driver’s inputs and always changing road surfaces for ultimate handling performance.

Forged light alloy wheels with high lateral stiffness wrapped in 245/35ZR19 front and 305/30ZR20 rear tires provide the NSX’s interface with the road. Standard high performance summer tires (Continental Conti-Sport Contact) provide excellent dry and wet weather handling and traction. The combination was tuned extensively in a joint effort with Continental to work in unison with the NSX chassis and SH-AWD systems to offer superior traction and grip.

Track-focused ultra-high performance summer tires, with elevated grip levels and even higher response characteristics are available as a dealer installed options.

Intuitive Steering
The NSX employs a sophisticated dual-pinion (with rack-mounted assist motor) electric power steering (EPS) system with a variable gear ratio. When on center, the ratio is tuned for optimal high speed control and stability. Off center, the gear ratio becomes progressively quicker for improved turn-in and maneuverability at low and mid speeds. The overall quick ratio effectively eliminates the need for driver’s hand-over-hand steering inputs.

High mounting and component stiffness minimize lost motion to help realize high steering accuracy and faithful road feedback. Steering assist levels are modified with the Integrated Dynamics System in concert with the MR dampers to provide appropriate effort and road feel for the desired level of performance.

Aerodynamic Balance High Speed Stability
NSX’s body shape was effectively designed to minimize aerodynamic drag while creating specifically balanced front-to-rear downforce through a total airflow management approach that focuses on utilizing airflow through each vent, while extracting maximum energy from the airflow field to cool the brakes and power unit.

Extensive research and development revealed that placing approximately three times as much downforce at the rear of the vehicle relative to the front of the car provides the optimal downforce balance for high-performance driving as well as everyday functionality.

Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive
Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is a further evolution of Acura’s highly regarded Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system in vehicles like the Acura TLX sports sedan and MDX sport-utility vehicle. This pinnacle new system electrifies the torque vectoring ability and provides this capacity to all drivers in all driving conditions.

The NSX’s revolutionary Sport Hybrid SH-AWD uses torque vectoring-enhanced vehicle dynamics—and specifically direct yaw control—to ultimate advantage by utilizing the instantaneous and “always-on” capacities of its electric motors to directly create a yaw moment at any speed, under power, and in off-throttle driving maneuvers—with greater immediacy and precision.

Supported by the advanced yaw-control capabilities of Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, the NSX driver is able to execute super-precise line tracing when aiming for the apex out on the track or on a favorite winding road. What’s more, the driver can do so with superb vehicle stability as well as a low workload, thus expanding the capabilities of all drivers, ranging from novice clubman to professional racer in virtually any driving scenario.

When accelerating the system provides instantaneous torque response via its three electric motors—the Direct Drive Motor and front Twin Motor Unit.

While braking, the NSX employs both its muscular mechanical braking system and its regenerative braking capabilities to deliver powerful, precise and virtually fade-free brake performance with very natural and progressive pedal feel while also recapturing kinetic energy to charge the system’s lithium-ion hybrid battery.

When cornering, the NSX’s Twin Motor Unit and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) work cooperatively to enhance cornering precision (line traceability). If desired, VSA can be disabled by simply selecting the Track mode setting of the Integrated Dynamics System, and then holding the VSA “Off” button, located on a panel to the left of the steering wheel, for at least six seconds.

By taking advantage of the immediate high-torque response of the system’s three electric motors to heighten control, the Acura NSX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system elevates any driver’s confidence and performance driving capabilities while extracting more performance from the car than is possible with conventional methods.

Next-Gen Supercar Power
At the heart of any supercar lies a powerful and responsive powertrain. The 2017 NSX raises the game by making its tremendous power instantly accessible and finely controllable.

Primary power is supplied by the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine, with peak engine output of 500 hp and 406 lb.-ft. of torque at the driver’s disposal. Broad power and torque bands mean that this massive motive force is available when the driver really wants it. Dual electric waste gates help manage boost regulation for smooth throttle transitions.

The new NSX’s 9-speed dual clutch transmission also plays a crucial role. Lightning-fast up and downshifts delivered seamlessly make the NSX a joy to drive—the faster the better. The wide total ratio range coupled with closely spaced individual ratios supports maximum extraction of the twin-turbo V6 power. And the transmission programming selects the right gear at the right time, or lets drivers select as they wish.

The 9 DCT’s gear ratio range prioritizes maximum
performance, with relaxed top-gear cruising.

But the real secret to the NSX’s virtually zero-delay acceleration lies in the seamless integration of the instant and substantial torque from the front TMU and Direct Drive Motor. This right now electric power pushes the NSX’s total output to 573 hp and allows fine adjustment of power for maximum performance—on the street or track.

Standing start acceleration G with wide open throttle (WOT).

Importantly, the NSX’s control systems manage the collective system power and torque smoothly while allowing scintillating response and acceleration. Responses can also be progressively quickened via Integrated Dynamics System settings.

Launch Mode Control
For ultimate, high-G acceleration from the standstill, the NSX driver can invoke Launch Mode Control. With the 9-speed DCT set in either Drive (“D”) or Manual (“M”) and the Integrated Dynamics System set to “Track” mode, the driver depresses the brake pedal with the left foot while simultaneously pushing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor with the right foot. When the brake pedal is released, the NSX will perform a perfectly executed launch that utilizes peak power from the TMU, twin-turbocharged V-6 engine and Direct Drive Motor.

Super Sports Brakes
Seamlessly integrating both mechanical (friction) brakes with electro-servo control and a regenerative brake system, the NSX provides exceptionally precise, linear and virtually fade-free braking performance in almost any driving condition. To support the driver in high-speed driving scenarios as well as at low-speeds, the powerful brake system has been painstakingly tuned for easy, predictable modulation in any condition.

The Brembo mono block brake calipers have been designed with high rigidity to provide even pressure distribution and superior pedal feel. Ultra-high performance and lightweight carbon ceramic brake rotors are available as a factory-installed option. Both the carbon ceramic and the standard iron rotors use a two-piece floating design to maintain consistent stopping power under severe braking.

Dialing Up Dynamic Pleasure: The Integrated Dynamics System
The NSX Integrated Dynamics System provides the driver with four selectable dynamic modes—Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track. The system integrates all of the vehicle’s dynamic chassis and powertrain systems—steering, brakes, throttle, vehicle stability assist, magnetorheological dampers, engine, transmission, and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD control systems. From the available all-electric operation of Quiet mode to the closed circuit, maximum performance capacities of Track mode, the Integrated Dynamics System progressively dials up the dynamic characteristics of the vehicle based on the needs of the driver and the driving environment.

In addition to dynamic system variations, the Integrated Dynamics System varies cabin sounds via Active Exhaust Valve and Intake Sound Control to fine-tune sound quality and volume to match the dynamic character of the vehicle in Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track modes. Notably, there is a full 25 dB sound level difference between Quiet and Track modes—a tremendous variance in audible sensation.

The NSX Integrated Dynamics System also has the world’s first custom setting menu that allows the driver to configure the vehicle’s mode for startup. For example, drivers can program the car to always start in Quiet, or Sport mode, along with the ability to schedule the NSX to operate exclusively in Quiet mode during a specified time period, such as the early morning to avoid waking the neighborhood.

Integrated Dynamics System mode characteristics:

Quiet Mode
Quiet mode prioritizes electric-only driving at lower speeds, maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing both cabin and exterior noise. The vehicle uses the TMU for initial launch from a standstill. When power demand requires the engine, it starts more quietly than in other modes and maximum engine speed is limited to 4,000 rpm, while the Active Exhaust and Intake Sound Control valves are closed for a more hushed operation. The transmission shift map also prioritizes lower engine speeds. The driver interface (tachometer and center console information display screen) features a cool and quiet blue color.

Sport Mode
Sport mode takes advantage of the Sport Hybrid system to offer the driver a direct responsive vehicle or a more relaxed vehicle according to their driving inputs. Compared to Quiet Mode, it eliminates the 4,000 rpm limit on the engine and quickens throttle response. A more aggressive transmission shift map holds gears longer and allows higher rpm shift points. The Intake Sound Control system and the Active Exhaust Valve are activated, allowing additional intake and exhaust sound to permeate the cabin for a more emotional driving experience. Like Quiet mode, Sport mode provides idle stop function. The Sport mode is the default setting in normal vehicle operation.

Sport+ Mode
Sport+ further prioritizes drivetrain response and dynamic performance with faster up- and down-shifts of the 9 DCT and still more aggressive throttle mapping. Maximum use of the electric motor torque provides more explosive acceleration. Increased agility is achieved by harmonizing a more aggressive Direct Yaw Control setting that works in concert with the magnetorheological dampers, Agile Handling Assist, and the Electric Power Steering system—perfect for a spirited drive on a winding road. It also transmits a higher degree of steering feedback, while intake and exhaust note sounds are further increased for an even more exhilarating driving experience. The TFT Meter sports an aggressive yellow “con-trail” along the tachometer needle supporting easy recognition of engine RPM. Red highlights for the center console information display also reinforce that the driver is in now in Sport+ mode.

Track Mode
Optimized for circuit driving, Track mode invokes the most aggressive settings and parameters to assist the driver in capturing the fastest and most consistent lap times possible, along with maximum acceleration from a standstill when utilizing Launch Mode Control. The braking system offers enhanced performance-oriented pedal feel. Up/down gearshift execution of the DCT and performance of the Super Hybrid SH-AWD and active driver aids (VSA, AHA) are programmed to support circuit limit driving, and an even greater amount of engine intake sound permeates the cabin for a heightened driving experience offering enhanced driver feedback even when wearing a helmet.

Track mode also prioritizes the lithium-ion battery state-of-charge to maintain a consistent level of torque delivery and direct yaw moment from the three electric motors.

Of note, the VSA operation is progressively “loosened” from the Integrated Dynamics System Quiet mode up to Track mode, enabling an increasingly higher degree of freedom for the driver in exploring the dynamic capabilities of the NSX. In “Track” mode, the VSA system can also be completely disabled by the driver.

Anatomy of a Turn
To better understand the dynamic functioning of the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD powertrain and all its related systems—including the V-6 engine, Rear Direct Drive Motor, mechanical and regenerative braking systems, front-mounted Twin Motor Unit and IPU (hybrid battery)—the following is a step-by-step illustration/explanation of the major component and systems functions when negotiating a typical circuit corner while in Track mode: