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Honda Pauses Ridgeline 2026-28, Targets Hybrid V6

6/8/2026

50 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Honda will pause 2026 Ridgeline production for 1.5 years, resuming late 2028.
The pause follows a $15.7 billion EV write-off and a shift to a hybrid powertrain to meet emissions rules the 3.5-L V6 cannot satisfy.
Honda is developing a dual-motor hybrid V6 that should raise fuel economy by 30 percent versus the roughly 20 mpg engine.
Toyota, Ford and Kia are launching hybrid pickups, prompting Honda to warn a misstep could push buyers to rivals.

History

Historical Context

Toyota launched the world’s first mass-produced hybrid, the Prius, on 10 December 1997, and by May 2008 had sold one million units worldwide. Its success led the EPA to classify the Prius as a clean vehicle and spurred other Japanese makers toward electrified trucks. In 2026 Honda paused development of a hybrid Ridgeline, echoing Toyota’s earlier pivot to hybrid technology.

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Story summary

Honda will pause 2026 Ridgeline production for 1.5 years, resuming late 2028.
The pause follows a $15.7 billion EV write-off and a shift to a hybrid powertrain to meet emissions rules the 3.5-L V6 cannot satisfy.
Honda is developing a dual-motor hybrid V6 that should raise fuel economy by 30 percent versus the roughly 20 mpg engine.
Toyota, Ford and Kia are launching hybrid pickups, prompting Honda to warn a misstep could push buyers to rivals.

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