Acura ZDX gets Google Built In

American Honda Motor Co.'s future evolution is not only electric, it's digital.

As the introduction of the automaker's first new-era electric crossovers draws near with the Honda Prologue and the Acura ZDX, the company is just as focused on digitizing the user experience as it is on launching its first two competitive zero-emission vehicles.

The Acura ZDX will offer the brand's first iteration of Google Built In when it goes on sale early next year. The Honda Prologue, also scheduled for an early 2024 on sale date, will likely offer the same type of in-car digital experience.

The digital platform tethers the user to the vehicle through their Google profile and immediately enables a smartphone-less connected in-car experience.

Both 2024 model year EVs are being co-developed with General Motors on Ultium battery-electric platforms and represent the first major step toward American Honda's goal of selling 500,000 EVs in North America by 2030.

In-vehicle connectivity will create a more productive ownership experience, said Raj Manakkal, American Honda's assistant vice president of digital services development.

"We're talking about software and digital services that can create new values to owners, even after they buy the car — this is the direction we are moving," Manakkal told Automotive News.

The company's next EV phase will see electrification and digitization more tightly intertwined. In 2026, Honda will market models based on a new software-defined platform called e:Architecture.

Manakkal said electric vehicles afford developers a domain to create distinct features and services, especially when it comes to charging and route planning.

For now, the Acura brand will serve as the "tip of the spear" for digitization across the company's products.

Google Built In debuted on the top Touring trim of the new Honda Accord. Acura's Google Built In will work the same way as Honda's, with Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, and will come standard across all trims.

Acura did not disclose details on what the ZDX lineup will look like, but it has announced a Type S performance-oriented variant in addition to a base model.

Google Assistant is the core control function, letting users access all the embedded media apps and set temperature controls via voice command. When the user's smartphone is connected, assistant will enable talk or text, or can be used to set reminders.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come standard on the ZDX.

Assistant also will set destinations for the driver through Google Maps and deliver an enhanced experience specific to EV drivers, optimizing route guidance to chargers for recharging or just a top off on the way to the ZDX's final destination. Maps will adjust arrival times based on how long it estimates recharging will take.

Google Maps also will precondition the battery for charging upon approach to a DC fast charger.

In addition to Google Built In functionality, the ZDX can receive fast and secure over-the-air updates that will "enhance functionality and capability," according to the automaker.

The digital experience also extends to the purchase process for the ZDX.

The electric crossover will be the first Acura to be sold 100 percent online, using a digital retail tool that enables buyers to shop for and purchase vehicles in a digital environment from start to finish, but with the option to pick up the vehicle in-person at the dealership at any point if they chose.

Though Acura is moving the shopping experience online, it has said dealers will remain at the center. The platform, which Acura calls an "omnichannel," will be the result of a close collaboration between Acura and representatives from its dealer body.