Acura has officially launched its first-ever BEV – the ZDX, and we at Electrek got the invite to Montecito, California, to test drive the top-tier S-Line trim of the crossover SUV. Acura did many things right in its first venture into electrification, but is it worthy of the performance grade the Honda division is known for? Even more, is it worth the price tag? You be the judge.
Table of contents
A quick background on the arrival of the Acura ZDX
It has been about nine months since Acura unveiled the ZDX to the public during Monterey Car Week last summer. The all-electric ZDX kicks off a new era for Acura, one that its team is quite proud of as the automotive industry, including its parent company, Honda, begins to embrace BEVs.
The crossover is the first all-electric offering from the Honda luxury and performance sub-brand and should not be confused with the combustion fastback by the same name that preceded it many years ago.
During its unveiling, we learned the ZDX would be available in an A-Spec version, complete with single—and dual-motor powertrain options and a dual-motor Type S trim that includes an exclusive “Double Apex Blue Pearl” exterior paint.
In December 2023, Acura opened up reservations for the BEV, sharing that the previously mentioned A-Spec trim would start at an MSRP of around $60,000 for RWD and around $70,000 for the S-Line.
By January 2024, we got official pricing, which was a bit higher than initially promised unless you include the maximum federal tax credits available in the US, which this model should qualify for. More on that later, but for now, we’re going to run you through the specs of the ZDX S-Line – the model we got the chance to test out recently around Santa Barbara and Montecito. Here are some images of the exterior.
Experiencing the Acura ZDX S-Line, inside and out
To begin, the 2024 Acura ZDX arrives in three separate trims: RWD and AWD versions of the A-Spec and the top-tier AWD S-Line—the variant we tested out. All models are the same size—197.7 inches long by 77 inches wide and 64.4 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 121.8 inches.
Each variant also features the same 102 kWh battery pack, but the BEV’s platform offers somewhat disappointing charge rates – 10 to 20% in 42 minutes on a DC fast charger. For the sake of comparison, here are how the performance specs break down by trim, including the S-Line.
Acura ZDX Trim
A-Spec RWD
A-Spec AWD
S-Line AWD
Powertrain
Single Motor
Dual Motor
Dual Motor
Horsepower
358 hp
490 hp
499 hp
Torque
324 lb-ft
437 lb-ft
544 lb-ft
Max Towing
3,500 lbs
3,500 lbs
3,500 lbs
EPA Est.Range
313 miles
304 miles
278 miles
DC Charge (10 mins)
81 miles
79 miles
72 miles
Source: Acura
As the premium trim level, the Acura ZDX S-Line also has the $1,000 add-on option for 22-inch Berlina black performance wheels and 275 / 40R22 summer tires from Continental instead of the standard all-seasons.
Starting with the exterior, you’ll notice a wide and long stance, similar to the Honda Prologue we previously tested, that shares many of the same BEV DNA (much of which came from GM). Starting with the front, you’ll notice a new diamond pentagon grille that is illuminated, alongside an Acura badge that is much more subtle compared to its other models.
The S-Type I drove comes equipped with a Berlina Black lower grille beneath the 3D embossed diamond, as well as a black upper cabin – perfectly matching the wheel upgrade if you opt in on it.
You’ll notice “Jewel Eye” LED headlights and metallic gray runners along the wheelbase in the images above. I am not a fan of the gray on the sides, as I feel it takes away from the luxury feel Acura usually tries to achieve.
The ZDX body curves inward toward the rear to increase aerodynamics, where you’ll find a subtle tuned spoiler and RR diffuser. The result is a crossover BEV with a low center of gravity and near 50/50 weight distribution, creating a clean exit flow of air that equates to a smooth and quiet ride.
Next, let’s move into the interior of the Acura ZDX S-Line.
Overall, the inside of Acura’s first all-electric crossover is roomy and comfortable, but it by no means screams luxury. The dash components and door trims were quality and sturdy, but there was still plenty of plastic and other composites present.
These elements were actually quite nice, but they don’t match the price point Acura is asking for this BEV, but more on that in a bit. I found the seats very comfortable, and I liked the white interior leather with the S-Line logo embossed in the front headrests—a nice sporty touch.
You know I always test out the air-conditioned seats, and in the case of the ZDX, I found them adequate. They definitely worked, but after a while, I had to check and see if they were still on. However, I remained cool as both a driver and a passenger, so they got the job done.
Acura ZDX’s interior features two digital displays – an 11-inch “Digital Gauge Cluster” and an 11.3-inch center screen with Google built-in. It will also be the first Acura vehicle equipped with a Bang & Olufsen audio system, consisting of 18 speakers throughout the cabin – standard on all ZDX trims. That’s a nice touch for sure; the system was boomin’.
Beneath the displays, the extra-wide center console offered plenty of room for storing phones, drinks, and other belongings, and the storage below is perfect for a purse or perhaps some snacks. Why not? I would have preferred the wireless phone charger to be up front near the flat part of the console instead of vertical in a little nook you have to shove it into.
The metal sport pedals were a nice touch, but that’s really the only design element in the ZDX that makes it feel sporty. It also doesn’t feel luxurious either. So what is it? That’s where I struggle.
On that note, let’s dig into my experience driving the Acura ZDX S-Type, shall we?
Driving impressions
To begin, I want to point out that the 2024 Acura ZDX S-Type comes with four different drive modes: Normal, Sport, Individual, and Snow – the latter of which utilizes air suspension to raise the vehicle 25mm. I tested three of the four, as there was no snow in the middle of California in April, but I have some thoughts.
First of all, the button to switch between drive modes on the lower dash to the left of the steering wheel. I knew where to look for it after driving the Prologue, but this placement could be better for safe driving. My driving partner and I struggled to find and tap it while behind the wheel without taking our eyes off the road. You sort of have to lean over and reach for it. I would have preferred to have it as a toggle on the steering wheel.
Normal mode was completely fine, and I found the regenerative braking to be superb in this BEV, especially at its highest setting. One-pedal driving is possible, but again, you must activate a lock mode next to the drive mode button so the vehicle doesn’t creep. Why?
I felt a slight shift when switching to Sport mode, but I would argue the average driver really wouldn’t notice. The dampers offer less vibration, but the electric motor is significantly louder, adding to the ambiance; in terms of overall acceleration, I didn’t feel much “oomph” compared to regular mode.
Still, the dual motors provided plenty of power to easily overtake slower cars (and other journalists) on the highway. I have no qualms with the torque and acceleration from me. I truly loved the Acura ZDX’s ADAS functions, which it calls “Hands-Free Cruise.” Let’s be honest, though; it’s just GM’s SuperCruise – it even has the green bar on the steering wheel (mind you, a wheel that closely resembles the Blazer EV) to let you know when the feature is activated.
That said, the hands free driving worked like a charm and safely switched lanes on its own several times without issue. You can view that autonomous magic in my comprhensive video below. The Head Up Display was fine too. You could clearly see your speed, but there were no other prompts such as navigation. Our particular ZDX must have had a sensor issue because the neither the digital gauge nor the HUD could read speed limit signs – that metric remained blank during the entire drive.
The cluster itself is inherently Acura, but there is much evidence that the ZDX is rooted in GM’s design DNA, similar to the Cadillac LYRIQ, Blazer EV, and the Honda Prologue. I believe that in a lot of the design elements, particularly the cockpit, Acura’s hands were tied (at least financially) to stick with the same components and their placement rather than do redesigns.
It will be interesting to see how Acura’s follow-up to the ZDX will look, assuming it will be a completely bespoke model. I’m particularly interested in learning what architecture and ADAS Honda will deliver as it has now gotten its beak wet in BEVs.
Overall, I think the ZDX is an excellent start for the brand, but it doesn’t scream 100% Acura because it really isn’t. I would classify it as an excellent beginner-level BEV, but I fear consumers will opt for more affordable options for the same… or, in some cases, better performance specs. I think pricing will be the most detrimental to ZDX’s success in the current market. Speaking of which…
Pricing, availability, and our video review of the Acura ZDX
* Prices do not include additional $1,350 in destination fees
What do you think? Would you shell out $65k for the new Acura ZDX? What about $74,500 for the S-Type with performance wheels? I further summarize my experience with the latest all-electric crossover in the video review below.
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Japanese equipment giant Kubota brought 22 new or updated machines to the 2025 bauma expo earlier this year, but tucked away in the corners was a new retrofit kit that can help existing customers decarbonize more quickly, and more affordably.
The latest equipment maker to put its name on the retrofit list is Kubota, who says its kit can be installed by a trained dealer in a single day.
That’s right! By this time tomorrow, your diesel-powered Kubota KX019 or U27-4 excavator (shown) could be fitted with an 18 or 20 kWh li-ion battery pack and electric drive motors and ready to get to work in a low-noise or low-vibration work environment where emissions are a strict no-no. Think indoor precision demolition or historic archeological excavation.
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Then, if necessary, it can go right back to diesel power.
Kubota says its modular retrofit kits is a response to the increasing global demand for sustainable alternatives by focusing on making machinery that’s flexible and repairable enough to be “reusable,” and offer construction fleet managers a longer operational lifespan, superior ROI (return on investment), and lower TCO (total cost of ownership) than the competition.
Kubota’s solution also notably reduces maintenance costs and operational overheads. With no engine and associated components, servicing time and expenses are considerably reduced, saving customers both time and money. Additionally, with electricity costing far less than fossil fuels, it offers a highly economical advantage.
International Rental News reports that other changes to the excavators include a more modern cab controls with a digital instrument cluster, a 60 mm wider undercarriage for more stability, and an independent travel circuit allows operators to use the boom, dipper, bucket, and auxiliary functions without an impact on tracking performance.
Kubota’s new kit, first shown at last year’s Hillhead exhibition in the UK, will officially be on sale this summer – any day now, in fact – though pricing has yet to be announced.
Electrek’s Take
If you’re wondering how it is that we’re still talking about bauma 2025 a full quarter after the show wrapped up, then I haven’t done a good enough job of explaining how positively massive the show was. Check out this Quick Charge episode (above) then let us know what you think of Kubota’s modular power kits in the comments.
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Elon Musk isn’t happy about Trump passing the Big Beautiful Bill and killing off the $7,500 EV tax credit – but there’s a lot more bad news for Tesla baked into the BBB. We’ve got all that and more on today’s budget-busting episode of Quick Charge!
We also present ongoing coverage of the 2025 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix and dive into some two wheeled reports on the new electric Honda Ruckus e:Zoomer, the latest BMW electric two-wheeler, and more!
New episodes of Quick Charge are recorded, usually, Monday through Thursday (and sometimes Sunday). We’ll be posting bonus audio content from time to time as well, so be sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss a minute of Electrek’s high-voltage daily news.
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Got news? Let us know! Drop us a line at tips@electrek.co. You can also rate us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or recommend us in Overcast to help more people discover the show.
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
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Solar and wind accounted for almost 96% of new US electrical generating capacity added in the first third of 2025. In April, solar provided 87% of new capacity, making it the 20th consecutive month solar has taken the lead, according to data belatedly posted on July 1 by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and reviewed by the SUN DAY Campaign.
Solar’s new generating capacity in April 2025 and YTD
In its latest monthly “Energy Infrastructure Update” report (with data through April 30, 2025), FERC says 50 “units” of solar totaling 2,284 megawatts (MW) were placed into service in April, accounting for 86.7% of all new generating capacity added during the month.
In addition, the 9,451 MW of solar added during the first four months of 2025 was 77.7% of the new generation placed into service.
Solar has now been the largest source of new generating capacity added each month for 20 consecutive months, from September 2023 to April 2025.
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Solar + wind were >95% of new capacity in 1st third of 2025
Between January and April 2025, new wind provided 2,183 MW of capacity additions, accounting for 18.0% of new additions in the first third.
In the same period, the combination of solar and wind was 95.7% of new capacity while natural gas (511 MW) provided just 4.2%; the remaining 0.1% came from oil (11 MW).
Solar + wind are >22% of US utility-scale generating capacity
The installed capacities of solar (11.0%) and wind (11.8%) are now each more than a tenth of the US total. Together, they make up almost one-fourth (22.8%) of the US’s total available installed utility-scale generating capacity.
Moreover, at least 25-30% of US solar capacity is in small-scale (e.g., rooftop) systems that are not reflected in FERC’s data. Including that additional solar capacity would bring the share provided by solar + wind to more than a quarter of the US total.
With the inclusion of hydropower (7.7%), biomass (1.1%), and geothermal (0.3%), renewables currently claim a 31.8% share of total US utility-scale generating capacity. If small-scale solar capacity is included, renewables are now about one-third of total US generating capacity.
Solar is on track to become No. 2 source of US generating capacity
FERC reports that net “high probability” additions of solar between May 2025 and April 2028 total 90,158 MW – an amount almost four times the forecast net “high probability” additions for wind (22,793 MW), the second-fastest growing resource. Notably, both three-year projections are higher than those provided just a month earlier.
FERC also foresees net growth for hydropower (596 MW) and geothermal (92 MW) but a decrease of 123 MW in biomass capacity.
Taken together, the net new “high probability” capacity additions by all renewable energy sources over the next three years – i.e., the bulk of the Trump administration’s remaining time in office – would total 113,516 MW.
FERC doesn’t include any nuclear capacity in its three-year forecast, while coal and oil are projected to contract by 24,373 MW and 1,915 MW, respectively. Natural gas capacity would expand by 5,730 MW.
Thus, adjusting for the different capacity factors of gas (59.7%), wind (34.3%), and utility-scale solar (23.4%), electricity generated by the projected new solar capacity to be added in the coming three years should be at least six times greater than that produced by the new natural gas capacity, while the electrical output by new wind capacity would be more than double that by gas.
If FERC’s current “high probability” additions materialize, by May 1, 2028, solar will account for one-sixth (16.6%) of US installed utility-scale generating capacity. Wind would provide an additional one-eighth (12.6%) of the total. That would make each greater than coal (12.2%) and substantially more than nuclear power or hydropower (7.3% and 7.2%, respectively).
In fact, assuming current growth rates continue, the installed capacity of utility-scale solar is likely to surpass that of either coal or wind within two years, placing solar in second place for installed generating capacity, behind only natural gas.
Renewables + small-scale solar may overtake natural gas within 3 years
The mix of all utility-scale (ie, >1 MW) renewables is now adding about two percentage points each year to its share of generating capacity. At that pace, by May 1, 2028, renewables would account for 37.7% of total available installed utility-scale generating capacity – rapidly approaching that of natural gas (40.1%). Solar and wind would constitute more than three-quarters of installed renewable energy capacity. If those trend lines continue, utility-scale renewable energy capacity should surpass that of natural gas in 2029 or sooner.
However, as noted, FERC’s data do not account for the capacity of small-scale solar systems. If that’s factored in, within three years, total US solar capacity could exceed 300 GW. In turn, the mix of all renewables would then be about 40% of total installed capacity while the share of natural gas would drop to about 38%.
Moreover, FERC reports that there may actually be as much as 224,426 MW of net new solar additions in the current three-year pipeline in addition to 69,530 MW of new wind, 9,072 MW of new hydropower, 202 MW of new geothermal, and 39 MW of new biomass. By contrast, net new natural gas capacity potentially in the three-year pipeline totals just 26,818 MW. Consequently, renewables’ share could be even greater by mid-spring 2028.
“The Trump Administration’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ … poses a clear threat to solar and wind in the years to come,” noted the SUN DAY Campaign’s executive director, Ken Bossong. “Nonetheless, FERC’s latest data and forecasts suggest cleaner and lower-cost renewable energy sources may still dominate and surpass nuclear power, coal, and natural gas.”
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