Acura has revealed its plans for the American market in 2024, with the official arrival of its first-ever EV, the ZDX, a new crossover, and two updated models.
The Ultium-based ZDX will soon be made available to customers, with the order books opening in February. Reservations for the electric crossover opened in December, with reservation holders set to receive a unique Acura Energy Key Card with several benefits. For the first time in Acura’s history, the ZDX will be sold through a new omnichannel retail experience, with buyers placing orders online.
As a reminder, two models will be offered, including a 500-horsepower Type S variant estimated to sell for over $70,000. So, what else is on the horizon? The big news is undoubtedly the arrival of a new compact crossover that will be “positioned at the gateway of the lineup.”
Volvo Cars is setting ambitious targets for its electric vehicle (EV) sales, aiming for half of its sales to be EVs by next year, with a strategic goal of transitioning to an entirely EV-focused manufacturer by 2030. This optimistic outlook persists despite some analysts and competitors suggesting potential slowdowns in the EV market. Volvo’s CEO, Jim Rowan, expressed a different view, indicating confidence in the sector’s expansion during his appearance at the Reuters Global Markets Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Robust Growth Predicted Despite Market Challenges
Despite challenges faced by other automakers, Rowan maintains a positive outlook on the EV market’s potential for “tremendous growth.” He believes that increasing disposable incomes and Volvo’s strong pricing strategy will support consumer shifts towards electric vehicles, particularly in Europe. Last year, Volvo’s global EV sales surged by 70% to 113,419 vehicles, signaling robust market demand and validating Rowan’s optimistic projections.
Industry Comparisons and Future Outlook
While some automotive giants like Volkswagen and General Motors encountered setbacks in their EV strategies last year, others, including BMW and Hyundai Motor Group, reported strong performances and are optimistic about future growth. BMW celebrated record plug-in sales, and Hyundai expects to hit new sales records after a successful 2023. On the flip side, Volkswagen is implementing a significant cost-saving initiative, and GM is focused on overcoming production challenges related to its Ultium battery cells to better position itself in the evolving market.
A pair of stolen BMW SUVs led to a pair of crashes Monday evening, according to local police agencies.
According to the Orono Police Department, around 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 15, officers responded to a stolen vehicle report on Togo Road related to a BMW SUV. An officer on Shoreline Drive spotted a vehicle matching the description.
In a surprising turn within the pickup truck market, the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 has emerged as the leader in value per mile, overturning expectations that the Toyota Tundra or Ford F-150 might dominate this aspect. While the Tundra and F-150 are renowned for their reliability and popularity respectively, the Silverado 1500 has proven to offer superior value, especially for those skeptical of Chevrolet’s offerings.
Detailed Analysis Reveals Value Leader
A comprehensive study by iSeeCars, analyzing over 8.3 million vehicle sales and 181 million vehicle odometer readings, calculated the cost-effectiveness of vehicles based on their lifespan. The study revealed that the Chevy Silverado 1500 leads the full-size truck segment with an impressive average cost of $2,863 per 10,000 miles and an expected lifespan of nearly 200,000 miles. In comparison, the Toyota Tundra, while lasting longer with an average lifespan of over 226,000 miles, incurs slightly higher costs which diminish its overall value ranking.
Cost Efficiency Across Major Truck Brands
The Ford F-150, often the top-selling truck, actually ranks fourth in terms of value, with a higher cost per mile and a shorter lifespan than its competitors. The study places the Nissan Titan at the bottom of the list, primarily due to its high cost per mile and shorter lifespan, though it’s noted that the Titan’s discontinuation will soon change the rankings. For those evaluating which 2023 truck to purchase, the Chevy Silverado 1500’s lead in value might tilt the scales in its favor, supported by its solid reliability score from J.D. Power.
Lightweight, quick, and stealthy: three things that make an effective reconnaissance vehicle.
As it would turn out, the practical applications of e-bikes go beyond just personal mobility and recreation. E-bikes and e-motorcycles are powerful, easy to ride, are quiet, and these days, boast impressive range. All these attributes are essential from a military standpoint, especially in tactical missions that require the rapid ingress and egress of troops in a stealthy manner.
Indeed, e-bikes and e-motos being used in military settings are gaining popularity. We’ve seen it in action, as electric bikes from the likes of Delfast and ELEEK have been set up for combat duty in Ukraine. This time around, e-bikes could soon play a role in the French military, as the Battle Lab Terre innovation group, part of the French Land Force’s technical section, recently held tests on high-speed e-bikes and electric motorcycles. More specifically, it tested the LMX range of two-wheelers, with the 56 electric bicycle and the 161 electric motorcycle.
Naturally, the goal of these tests was to assess whether or not these two-wheelers could serve any practical application in a military context. For reference, LMX Bikes is headquartered in France, and is known for its high-performance electric two-wheelers. While the results of the initial tests conducted on the two models seem promising, French e-mobility publication Clean Rider reports that the French Army’s Technical Section (STAT) will continue testing these light EVs in 2024. Other metrics such as speed, range, stealth, and other performance variables will be taken into account.
Diving into the specifics of the bikes, the LMX 56 isn’t your typical electric mountain bike. It’s an off-road only machine that packs more than four times the power of even the fanciest e-MTBs on the market. Equipped with a throttle, the LMX 56 delivers up to 2,500 watts of maximum power output and 175 Nm of torque to the rear wheel. It makes use of a conventional chain drivetrain on the right side in combination with a belt-drive on the left side that’s connected directly to the motor. Moreover, its large battery pack promises a single-charge range of up to 62 miles.
Meanwhile, the LMX 161 is marketed as a lightweight motocross bike with premium suspension components, off-road wheels and tires, and a powerful motor. With 9,000 watts of peak power, it pumps out the equivalent of 12 horsepower, or about as much as a 125cc gas-powered motorbike, but with instantaneous throttle response thanks to the electric motor. Furthermore, LMX claims that it weighs just half that of its gas-powered counterparts.
Honda’s Recovery and Ambitious Plans for Electrification
Following a turbulent period due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Honda’s North American operations have stabilized, with sales nearing pre-pandemic levels in 2023. American Honda, buoyed by strong demand, saw a significant rebound, with a year-over-year sales increase exceeding 30%. Looking ahead to 2024, the company is not only enhancing its internal combustion engine lineup but also launching high-volume battery electric vehicles (BEVs), showcasing a strategic pivot towards electrification.
The 2024 Acura ZDX arrives in 340-horsepower and 500-horsepower variants. Acura
The 2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec offers an electric range of 325 miles. Acura
The 2024 Acura ZDX made its debut during Monterey Car Week in California. Acura
Acura’s New Offerings and Technological Advancements
In 2024, Acura is set to introduce the all-electric ZDX SUV, marking a significant step in its EV strategy. This new model, developed in collaboration with General Motors and sharing some base attributes with the Chevrolet Blazer, underscores Acura’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio. The ZDX will debut with advanced features like hands-free driving technology, mirroring systems found in competitors like Ford and GM, and will be available for order directly through Acura’s online platform starting in February.
Honda’s fuel cell housing. Honda will introduce a hydrogen fuel cell CR-V in 2024. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Enhancements Across Honda and Acura Models
The upcoming year will also see updates across several Acura models, including the flagship MDX, which will receive a new Bang & Olufsen sound system and switch from a touchpad to a touchscreen infotainment system. The RDX is set to receive functional enhancements to boost its appeal. Additionally, Honda is preparing to launch the Prologue, an all-electric midsize SUV, initially in states with favorable zero-emission vehicle policies, with plans for a nationwide rollout. The Honda CR-V is also evolving, with a new fuel cell version set to debut, representing North America’s first production model to combine plug-in and fuel cell technologies.
A refreshed version of the 2025 Honda Civic. The model is shown with fresh fascia design and new wheels. American Honda Motor Co., Inc
Rear of the refreshed 2025 Honda Civic. The model is shown in a Sport Touring trim level. American Honda Motor Co., Inc
This comprehensive overview highlights Honda and Acura’s robust plans for the upcoming year, focusing on advancing electric vehicle technology and refreshing popular models to enhance their market appeal and environmental sustainability.
Honda Accelerates into the EV Market with Diverse 2024 Lineup
Honda is set to make a significant entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market in 2024, catching up to competitors like Ford and Toyota. The lineup includes the Honda Prologue SUV and the Acura ZDX SUV, both battery-powered, along with a groundbreaking fuel cell version of the popular CR-V. Additionally, Honda will introduce a hybrid version of the Civic, anticipating that it will constitute 40% of all Civic sales following its release this summer.
Strategic Launch and Innovative Features
The Honda Prologue EV, boasting a 300-mile range with an Ultium battery developed by General Motors, will initially be available in states known for their EV-friendly policies, such as California, Texas, and Florida. This strategic launch approach aims to test the waters in warmer climates before a broader national rollout. Honda is also enhancing buyer incentives, offering significant charging credits and complimentary home charger installations to entice early adopters.
Acura Steps into the EV Arena; Honda Expands into Fuel Cell Technology
Simultaneously, Acura is preparing to market its first fully electric model, the ZDX SUV, with a starting price around $60,000 and a promising range of up to 325 miles. Unique to the industry, Acura will adopt a fully online sales model starting in February, mirroring the approach of EV pioneers like Tesla and Rivian. In a pioneering move, Honda is also launching the CR-V as a hybrid fuel cell vehicle, combining plug-in and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, a first in North America, offering versatility in fueling options for a wider adoption potential.
2024 Honda Civic Hybrid (Credit: Honda)
These initiatives underscore Honda’s commitment to electrification and innovation, setting a strong foundation for its future in the EV market. The introduction of diverse powertrain technologies in its lineup not only caters to current market trends but also positions Honda as a forward-thinking automaker ready to lead in the evolving automotive landscape.
Celebrating Excellence in the Canadian Auto Industry
The 2024 AutoTrader Awards have officially announced the winners, showcasing the best vehicles available to Canadian consumers. Organized by AutoTrader, Canada’s premier automotive marketplace, these awards draw on the expertise of some of the nation’s leading automotive journalists. Editor-in-Chief Jodi Lai emphasized the commitment of AutoTrader to empowering Canadian consumers with reliable car buying advice, positioning the awards as a pivotal resource for prospective buyers.
A Comprehensive Look at This Year’s Top Picks
This year’s AutoTrader Awards highlighted a variety of categories tailored to the Canadian market, including new additions like Best Hybrid and Best Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV). These join established categories such as Best Mainstream EV and Best Full-Size Truck. The awards aim to simplify the decision-making process for consumers, providing expert recommendations that distinguish exceptional vehicles from the merely good.
Insight into the Judging Process and Award Winners
An esteemed panel of over 20 automotive journalists participated in the selection process, each bringing a deep understanding of what makes a vehicle stand out in its segment. They assessed each contender against rigorous criteria including innovation, safety, and overall value. The judging culminated in the selection of winners in various segments—from family sedans like the Honda Accord Hybrid to luxury SUVs like the BMW X7—and set the stage for the Grand Prix winners to be announced in February 2024.
This detailed examination of the AutoTrader Awards offers a glimpse into the meticulous process behind these influential accolades and highlights the vehicles that excel in meeting the needs and expectations of Canadian drivers.
In a tragic turn of events in northeast Portland, three individuals—a teenager and two adults—lost their lives due to electrocution after a power line, weighed down by ice, fell onto their SUV. This incident occurred amid an intense ice storm that wreaked havoc across the region, posing severe risks to public safety. The victims attempted to escape the vehicle after the live wire fell, unknowingly stepping into a lethal trap as they made contact with the electrified ground.
A three-hour radar loop showing where rain (green), snow (blue) and sleet/freezing rain (purple) are falling. (FOX Weather)
Emergency Response and Safety Warnings
The Portland Fire & Rescue team responded promptly to emergency calls reporting the downed power line. Upon arrival, they discovered the victims already deceased outside the vehicle, highlighting the rapid and fatal nature of the electrocution. Rick Graves, a spokesperson for the fire department, stressed the importance of staying inside the vehicle if it comes into contact with a live wire. He explained that the car’s tires usually provide insulation from the ground, making it a safer option until professional help can safely remove the hazard.
Current Northwest winter weather alerts. (FOX Weather)
Continued Threats from Severe Winter Weather
The same storm system caused extensive environmental damage, with numerous trees and additional power lines collapsing under the weight of the ice. This led to significant power outages and structural damage, complicating rescue and recovery efforts. The local authorities had to close schools and limit transportation services due to the perilous conditions, illustrating the storm’s extensive impact on daily life. As the community begins to recover, the repeated warnings about the dangers of severe winter weather remain more relevant than ever, urging residents to exercise caution and prioritize safety during such events.
A car’s paint color can significantly reflect both the vehicle’s character and the owner’s personality. Car manufacturers put considerable effort into selecting the perfect hue for each model. This creativity also extends to the names they choose for these colors, often resulting in some memorable and unique options.
Public-Selected Names and Creative Classics
Volkswagen UK recently engaged the public to name the bright yellow finish of its new T-Cross SUV, resulting in the charming moniker “Rubber Ducky.” This isn’t the only example of great car paint names through the years. For instance, Vauxhall’s Adam featured names like “James Blonde” and “Goldbusters,” showcasing a playful approach to car marketing.
Iconic and Unique Car Paint Names
James Blonde – Vauxhall Adam: When Vauxhall launched the Adam city car in 2013, it aimed to inject fun and appeal specifically for younger drivers, offering over a million personalization combinations. The creative team excelled in crafting unique color names, including “Saturday White Fever,” “White My Fire,” “Goldbusters,” and “Orange Alert.” However, the standout choice remains the clever and vibrant yellow “James Blonde.”
Green Hell Magno – Mercedes-AMG GT R: This vibrant matte green, named after the famous Nurburgring race circuit, complements the GT R’s powerful and aggressive stance.
Tangerine Scream – Ford Focus ST: Ford’s bright orange for the Focus ST is aptly named “Tangerine Scream,” reflecting its bold and energetic vibe.
Hella Yella – Jeep Wrangler: Known for its adventurous spirit, the Jeep Wrangler offers this striking yellow shade, among other bold colors like “Mojito” green.
Embracing Local Heritage and Playful Choices
Norfolk Mustard – Lotus Elise: Lotus, with its strong British roots, named its vivid yellow paint “Norfolk Mustard,” paying homage to its factory location in Hethel, Norfolk.
Green Tea Latte – Kia Soul: Aiming to inject fun into the brand, Kia offered the Soul in quirky colors like “Green Tea Latte” and “Vanilla Milkshake,” appealing to a younger audience.
Frozen Berry – Porsche Taycan: Porsche’s extensive color range includes the light pink “Frozen Berry,” a bold choice for its electric Taycan and other models.
These creative color names not only enhance the car’s appeal but also add a layer of personalization and fun for the owners. The effort and imagination that go into naming car paint colors demonstrate the manufacturers’ dedication to making each vehicle unique and memorable.
A three-hour radar loop showing where rain (green), snow (blue) and sleet/freezing rain (purple) are falling. (FOX Weather)
Current Northwest winter weather alerts. (FOX Weather)
