Honda's EV Pullback Hits the ICE Business

The Honda 0 Series Saloon and SUV

We’ve seen a number of automakers cancelling (or delaying) EV programs lately, but it’s usually accompanies by increased investment on the ICE side of the business. For instance, Porsche cancelled the EV variant of its upcoming K1 fullsize SUV, but a Macan-sized ICE SUV is due to re-enter the portfolio in a couple of years. Similarly, Nissan cancelled its two planned US-built SUV EVs but is bringing back the Xterra and developing a new body-on-frame architecture.

Honda recently (and unexpectedly) cancelled three state-of-the-art EVs right before their launch--which you’d think would be countered with increased investment in ICE. We did hear about a new hybrid system for larger D segment vehicles (like Pilot, Passport, MDX, and Odyssey) that’s targeting 30% better fuel economy and 10% better acceleration. Unfortunately, Automotive News is now reporting a supplier memo indicates several key ICE vehicles are facing significant delays:

🔹 Odyssey: delayed three years to 2030 (lifecycle: 13 years)

🔹 Accord: no next-generation indicated, and may go hybrid only in 2030 (lifecycle: 7+ years)

🔹 HRV: delayed two years to 2032 (lifecycle: 10 years)

🔹 Integra: production extended three years to 2032, with no next generation indicated (lifecycle: 9 years)

🔹 MDX: next-generation in 2031 (lifecycle: 10 years)

Keep in mind Hyundai and Kia are working to lifecycles of 5-6 years, and the Chinese even less (but, fortunately, they’re not selling here yet). If this is true, Honda dealers could be managing a showroom full of stale product by the end of the decade. In addition, it’s not clear if this new hybrid is being designed for next-generation models or current entries; if the former, you’ll be waiting a while for an Odyssey or MDX Hybrid.

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