Automakers had been hesitant to embrace online sales, but that changed during the coronavirus pandemic. While the issues with the outbreak have largely subsided, online sales are here to stay.
Acura is making that abundantly clear as they’ll be serving as the “tip of the spear for digitalization at American Honda.” As part of this effort, 100% of Acura EV sales will take place online.
The company didn’t go into specifics, but said the move will begin with the ZDX and ZDX Type S. Acura will begin accepting pre-orders later this year, ahead of their arrival in early 2024.
Also: 2024 Acura ZDX And ZDX Type S Take Shape In Official ‘Spy’ Photos
As a refresher, the ZDX and ZDX Type S are GM-based EVs that are a fancier counterpart to the Honda Prologue. The company hasn’t said much about them, but the models will feature unique styling inside and out. We can also expect OnStar and Super Cruise.
Putting the ZDX aside, Acura confirmed the TLX will be receiving “enhancements” later this year. These are designed to “further its appeal in the competitive midsize luxury sedan segment,” although specifics are lacking. That being said, the model was unveiled in 2020 so it’s ready for a facelift.
In other news, Acura and Honda are expecting to rebound after a dismal 2022. Acura sales plummeted 35% last year to 102,306 units and Honda joined them in the gutter with sales that were down 32.9% to 983,507 units.
American Honda Vice President of Sales, Mamadou Diallo, said “Like the rest of the industry we’re not completely out of the woods with supply issues yet, but we’re optimistic the Honda and Acura brands will achieve higher sales volumes this year.” If everything pans out, Acura sales will rebound to around 160,000 units while Honda sales will climb to 1.2 million units.
While it’s tough predicting the future, the company noted they began 2023 with roughly twice the inventory as last year and will be working closely with dealers on “pre-sales and reservations to take care of customers.”
Speaking of Honda, Prologue orders will begin later this year and a Civic Hybrid will be offered in America starting in 2024. The latter will be available as a sedan and hatchback.
