Rapid Blue Makes Its Glorious Return in GTA V's Electric Car Update

History of Rapid Blue Paint in GTA

The iconic Grand Theft Auto series has been known for offering players the chance to get behind the wheel of their dream cars in a massive open world. Car customization has always been a core part of the experience, and ever since GTA III introduced the Pay 'N' Spray auto shops back in 2001, players have loved respraying their rides in unique paint jobs.

One of the most famous and coveted paint colors over the year has been Rapid Blue. First introduced in GTA IV in 2008, Rapid Blue immediately caught players' eyes with its vibrant electric sheen. For years the color remained an exclusive reward available only to the most dedicated players. But recently, GTA fans spotted Rapid Blue making an appearance once again in promotional images for GTA V's upcoming major update.

Rapid Blue Arrives in Los Santos

The upcoming GTA Online expansion will bring a range of new vehicles to Los Santos, most notably the long-awaited debut of electric cars. Rockstar Games has teased some sneak peeks of these new whip, including an orange and black Pfister Neon. But the car that really got fans talking was the blue rapid Grotti Turismo spotted in several screenshots.

Could this striking throwback paint job signify the return of the legendary Rapid Blue? Many fans in online forums seem to think so. And they have good reason to be excited. Rapid Blue has only made rare appearances in past GTA games as an ultra-exclusive Easter egg color.

What Makes Rapid Blue Special

There are a few reasons why Rapid Blue has become so coveted among GTA enthusiasts over the years. For one, its sparkling blue finish really pops, especially in the California sunshine that bathes Los Santos. It's just a gorgeous, head-turning shade.

But more meaningfully, obtaining Rapid Blue has been somewhat of an urban legend in the franchise. In early games it could only be unlocked through cheat codes or obscure hidden challenges. So spotting a Rapid Blue car on the streets became a sign of a serious GTA veteran.

It seems Rockstar is now bringing back this iconic paint both as fan service to long-time players, and to introduce it to new audiences in Los Santos.

Rapid Blue's Appearance on the New Electric Cars

Exactly which of Los Santos' new electric cars will offer Rapid Blue as a custom color option remains unconfirmed. The glimpses we've seen so far show it on the Grotti Turismo model. As Rockstar rolls out more sneak peeks in the lead-up to launch, we may get confirmation if other electric cars like the new Lampadati Corsita can also rock Rapid Blue.

Grotti Turismo

The Rapid Blue Grotti Turismo featured in official screenshots shows off the sparkling blue paint in all its glory. Details remain scarce on the updated Turismo model itself, but if it lives up to its real-life inspiritation, the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, it will boast some seriously impressive performance specs.

Expect blistering acceleration thanks to instant electric torque. And with all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, and active aerodynamics redirecting airflow, the Turismo should handle like a dream while pushing unthinkable speeds. No doubt this futuristic electric hypercar will provide the perfect canvas for showing off the vibrant Rapid Blue finish.

Other Electric Car Options

While the Grotti seems confirmed for Rapid Blue, some other electric car models spotted in various GTA V materials could end up offering the throwback paint job as well.

The Lampadati Corsita, for instance, represents a new take on a classic GTA car. Its '60s European sports car look upgraded with modern electric power could make a great pairing with Rapid Blue. Especially since blue remains an iconic color tied to Italian racing heritage.

We may also see Rapid Blue as an option on the chunky, off-road ready Maxwell Vagrant. Its heavy armor plating and all-terrain capabilities positioned as the ideal ride for action-packed missions and heists. Why not give players the chance to crash through Los Santos in durable electric style with Rapid Blue as their battle colors?

The Future of Rapid Blue in GTA Online

While the return of Rapid Blue already has fans excited, there remains some mystery around exactly how players will be able to unlock the sought-after paint job in GTA Online gameplay.

If Rockstar holds true to tradition, obtaining this rare finish won't be easy. It may involve completing special field research requests, difficult stunt jumps, obscure Easter egg hunts or unique robbery missions.

But the challenges will be worth it if it means joining the elite ranks of Los Santos car enthusiasts who can cruise the streets in Rapid Blue. And with the vibrant paint looking so striking on the new electric cars, plenty of players will be racing to add it to their collections.

In the end, Rapid Blue's reappearance seems to signify Rockstar embracing fan service and GTA tradition in this upcoming expansion. New technologies like electric cars will push the series into the future. But a classic paint job like Rapid Blue reminds us of the franchise's storied history of car culture and customization that has kept fans hooked for over 20 years.