Acura hasn’t revealed the 2024 ZDX yet, but we do know how it plans to sell it. The new electric vehicle, a brand first, will spearhead its plans to digitize American Honda and sell 100 percent of its EVs online, starting in 2024 with the ZDX and ZDX Type S. Pre-sales start in 2023 ahead of an early 2024 release.
Acura teased the ZDX last month via official spy photos. The automaker hasn’t provided specific details about the powertrain, but we do know that the crossover will use General Motors’ Ultium platform. The architecture can support batteries ranging from 50 to 200 kilowatt-hours. The two automakers announced they were partnering on electric vehicles, with the American automaker providing Honda with an EV platform.
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The architecture also underlies the new Honda Prologue, which will also see pre-sales begin later this year. However, it is not yet clear whether Honda will apply the same sales strategy for its electric cars. Motor1.com contacted Honda for comment. Deliveries of the Prolog also begin in early 2024. Honda revealed the Prolog in October, providing few details about the vehicle.
Photos of the ZDX that Acura shared last month show the crossover wrapped in custom camouflage, hiding styling details. The automaker says it took inspiration for the ZDX’s design from its futuristic look Precision EV Concept.
ZDX development has moved to real world conditions. Temporary headlights and taillights indicate a lot of work remains. However, we should start seeing test vehicles in public soon sporting reduced camouflage. The automaker is working to fine-tune the driving experience and road behavior of EVs, which the company calls Precision Crafted Performance.
Acura’s attempt to move new car sales online is another industry trend. The coronavirus pandemic is forcing a large number of online shoppers, and dealers, automakers and others are scrambling to keep up with that demand.
However, many states have strict dealer franchise laws that prohibit direct sales from manufacturers, and it’s unclear how Acura’s plan will work with its dealer network. We reached out to the company for details on the plans, and are waiting for the automaker to provide some additional information. We’ll update the story when we hear back.
