Acura is gearing up to unveil its first ever electric SUV — the 2024 ZDX and performance-focused ZDX Type S. Developed in partnership with GM, these forthcoming EVs represent an important milestone for the Honda luxury brand.
Slated for reveal this August and launch in early 2024, the ZDX EV marks Acura’s initial foray into the growing luxury electric SUV segment. While details remain limited for now, here’s an early look at what to expect from Acura’s pioneering battery-powered SUVs.
Overview of the 2024 Acura ZDX Models
Acura will launch its new EV era with two variants of the ZDX SUV:
- ZDX — The standard model targeting a balance of efficiency and performance
- ZDX Type S — An upgraded performance-tuned version offering more power and acceleration
Both will share the same core electric underpinnings but differ in powertrain tune. They slot into the heart of the booming midsize luxury EV market when they go on sale in 2024.
Teaser Provides a Glimpse of the ZDX
To get the hype started, Acura released a dark teaser image highlighting some ZDX design features:
- Distinctive 5-sided grille with illuminated bottom edge -Slim headlights with signature Acura LED lighting signature
-Sculpted hood sections hinting at the long front dash-to-axle proportion
While obscured in shadow, the teaser foreshadows the production model’s sharp, modern styling. The full reveal comes next month.
ZDX EV Debuts at 2022 Monterey Car Week
The wait for the 2024 ZDX won’t be long. Acura is planning the official debut at a major upcoming event:
- World premiere on August 17, 2022
- Occurring during annual Monterey Car Week
- Historic, high-profile auto event attended by industry press and collectors
- Showcases the most important new luxury vehicle reveals
Revealing the model at the prestigious Monterey Car Week underscores Acura’s confidence in the landmark ZDX EV.
GM Ultium Platform Enables New Acura EVs
Behind the scenes, the 2024 ZDX stems from an important partnership enabling Acura to quickly enter the EV space:
- ZDX co-developed with General Motors
- Based on GM’s flexible Ultium battery platform
- Will be manufactured in GM’s Spring Hill, TN EV plant
- Ultium central to many upcoming GM EVs like Lyriq
- Allows Acura to launch EV without developing full proprietary platform
Leveraging GM’s advanced modular platform provides a vital head start on electrification.
ZDX Powertrain Specs: What We May Expect
While official details remain unannounced, insights into the ZDX’s potential powertrain emerge from the GM connection:
- Single motor RWD — Estimated 340 hp like Cadillac Lyriq, ample for most drivers
- Dual motor AWD — Possible additional front motor for AWD, with ~500 hp total
- 90+ kWh battery — Near or above 100 kWh capacity anticipated
- 300+ mile range — Targeting class-leading estimated driving range
- 800V architecture — Enables ultra-fast charging up to 180+ kW
GM’s proven electric components allow the ZDX to deliver appealing performance and capabilities.
Projected Driving Range
Thanks to its cutting-edge battery technology, the ZDX lines up to be among the longest-range options in its class.
- 300+ mile range expected — Enough for extended driving between charges
- 800V charging system — Unlocks fastest charging speeds
- Performance model may see reduced range — More power demands more battery energy
The large battery pack should satisfy daily commuting and weekend trips with range to spare.
Acura’s First EV Signals Brand’s Commitment
The 2024 ZDX represents an important strategic shift for Acura as its first EV:
- Shows Acura embracing vehicle electrification
- Response to rising customer demand for EVs
- Opportunity to attract new demographics to the brand
- Allows tech sharing across Honda/Acura brands
- Establishes foundation for additional future EVs
With the ZDX paving the way, expect more zero-emissions Acuras to follow as Honda phases out gas models.
Distinguishing the ZDX Type S Performance Model
To satisfy drivers craving more thrills, the ZDX Type S turns up the wattage:
- More power — Estimated 500+ horsepower vs 340 hp in base ZDX
- Quick acceleration — 0–60 mph as fast as 3.5 seconds via AWD traction
- Sportier handling — Firmer suspension, bigger brakes benefit handling
- Performance styling — Aggressive bodywork and interior accents
- SH-AWD — Possible adaptation of Super-Handling AWD tech
The Type S will deliver a distinctly heightened level of performance worthy of its storied badge.
Preview of ZDX Type S Development Testing
To fine tune the ZDX Type S’s dynamic capabilities, Acura engineers have been putting prototypes through extensive testing:
Cold Weather Testing
Evaluates cold weather EV range and charging in extreme low temperatures.
Hot Weather Testing
Validates cooling and battery systems in searing desert heat.
Towing Testing
Confirms towing power and long-distance towing range.
Handling Tuning
Refines suspension, steering, and SH-AWD settings at the limit.
Charge Testing
Verifies battery longevity and charging speeds over thousands of cycles.
The Type S will excel in performance and drivability thanks to this exhaustive development regimen.
Estimated Arrival Timeframe
The ZDX models will land at dealerships nationwide in the first half of 2024 as 2024 model year vehicles:
- Debut — August 2022 reveal at Monterey Car Week
- Start of production — Early 2023 manufacturing at GM’s Spring Hill, TN plant
- Arrival at dealers — By Spring 2023
This typical timeframe means the ZDX should hit the market about a year after its unveiling.
ZDX EV Could Spawn a Range of Electric Acuras
The flexible Ultium platform paves the way for multiple Acura EVs:
- ZDX sedan — A 4-door electric sedan sharing technology with the ZDX SUV
- Electric MDX — An electrified Acura’s popular 3-row family SUV
- Electric NSX — A high-performance EV sports car successor
- Electric Integra — A battery-powered twist on Acura’s new sport compact
- Prologue SUV — Honda’s upcoming electric SUV also spinning off Ultium
The ZDX is likely just the first of many EVs from Acura as the brand transitions away from gasoline.
How the ZDX Compares to Rivals
The electric luxury SUV market is heating up. Here is how Acura’s first entry stacks up:
Cadillac Lyriq — Close cousin also based on Ultium underpinnings. Slightly smaller.
Tesla Model Y — Seats 7, huge center screen, Tesla charging network are advantages.
Audi e-tron / Q8 e-tron — More traditional luxury approach than Tesla. 300+ mile range.
Rivian R1S — Newcomer offers superlative performance and rugged SUV styling. Limited availability.
The ZDX aims high out of the gate, targeting the most competitive set right from launch.
Five Key Questions About the ZDX Electric SUV
- When does ZDX production start? Early 2023 according to the timeline provided by Acura.
- Where will the ZDX be built? At GM’s Tennessee EV manufacturing plant.
- What is power output of ZDX Type S? Likely a dual motor 500+ hp based on GM’s technology.
- Does ZDX have all-wheel drive? Base ZDX will be RWD. Type S adds AWD.
- How far can ZDX drive on one charge? Expect 300+ mile range aided by its large battery pack.
Previewing the ZDX: Inside and Out
While specifics await reveal, Acura’s EV concepts and reputation provide clues into the likely ZDX user experience:
Intelligent Performance
With e-motor instant torque and AWD traction, the ZDX promises sports car-like acceleration more sustainably.
Striking Modern Style
The Precision EV Concept’s raked silhouette hints at the ZDX’s flowing integrated lines.
Spacious, Tech-Centric Cabin
An airy, driver-focused cockpit blends premium materials with user-friendly controls.
Serene Ride Quality
Superb sound insulation and ride comfort balance sporty agility for grand touring ability.
Premium Brand Reputation
Acura qualities like refinement, reliability and engineering shine through.
Blending these virtues could elevate the ZDX as a new first choice in eco-luxury SUVs.
https://wiack.com/2024-acura-zdx-teased/?feed_id=6796&_unique_id=64cfbb10f0030 #Wiack #Car #CarInsurance #CarRental #CarPrice #AutoLoans
