Acura has been spotted testing its first electric vehicle, the 2024 ZDX, and the latest prototype is wearing minimal camouflage gear.
The original ZDX was a mid-size SUV with coupe-like styling that arrived about the same time as the original BMW X6. It didn't prove popular and Acura axed the model after just four years.
Acura is now set to revive the nameplate for its EV. The electric ZDX is expected to debut shortly, though it won't start sales until 2024. When it arrives, it will usher in a new business model where sales for electric models are handled exclusively online.
Rather than using an in-house platform, Acura brokered a deal to use General Motors' Ultium platform and battery technology set for the ZDX. GM will also build the ZDX for Acura. GM has a similar deal with Honda for the 2024 Prologue electric SUV.
2023 Cadillac Lyriq
Judging by the prototypes, the ZDX will share many elements with the Cadillac Lyriq, another Ultium-based mid-size SUV. The designs of the A-, B-, and C-pillars appear to be common across both vehicles, though the D-pillars are unique.
Acura previewed the design of the ZDX with the reveal of the Precision EV concept during 2022 Monterey Car Week. While the design of the concept has been toned down significantly for the production model, elements like the shark nose grille, sculpted hood, and distinct D-pillar have been retained.
A glimpse of the interior shows what appears to be a single panel integrating both a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment screen. The same design was featured in the Precision EV concept. Acura has confirmed the ZDX's infotainment system will feature in-built Google apps.
Acura Precision EV Concept
Acura Precision EV Concept
Acura Precision EV Concept
Acura hasn't mentioned powertrain specs. While the Ultium platform supports batteries as big as 200 kwh and enough electric motors for 1,000 hp, the ZDX should offer similar performance to the Lyriq, meaning roughly 100 kwh of battery capacity and around 340 hp. Expect more power for a sporty ZDX Type S model. Range should start around 300 miles.
Production of the ZDX will likely take place at GM's Spring Hill Manufacturing plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee, where GM builds the Lyriq. Honda's Prologue, which is closer to the Chevrolet Blazer EV in design, is tipped to enter production at GM's plant in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, where the Blazer EV and smaller Chevy Equinox EV will be built.
For their future EVs, Honda and Acura will rely on in-house developed technology. Honda last year announced a wide-ranging strategy that will see the automaker invest more than $60 billion in R&D over the next 10 years, with the bulk of the funds to be spent on development of EVs, as well as software. The strategy will see Honda launch 30 EVs globally by 2030 for its Honda and Acura brands, including two sporty models, one of which is believed to be a redesigned NSX supercar.
