By Steve Laser
In a surprising announcement from Honda in Japan on March 12, the automaker has decided to cancel three future electric vehicles. The O Series SUV (below), O Saloon, and Acura RSX were planned to be introduced to the U.S. market for the 2026 and ‘27 model years.
“Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda) today announced that it has made a decision to cancel the development and market launch of three EV (electric vehicle) models that had been planned for production in North America. This decision was made as part of the reassessment of the company’s automobile electrification strategy due to various factors including recent changes in the business environment.” Honda said in a prepared news release.
Honda discussed the reasons for the cancellations including, “…the profitability of Honda automobile business is currently declining due primarily to 1) the unfavorable impact of changes in U.S. tariff policies on the gasoline and hybrid vehicle business and 2) a decline in the competitiveness of Honda products in Asia due to the impact of the allocation of more resources to EV development.”
“In order to improve the current earnings situation as early as possible, Honda considered various options; however, after careful consideration, the company made the decision to cancel the development and market launch of three EV models that had been planned for production in the U.S., namely the Honda O SUV, Honda O Saloon, and Acura RSX. Honda determined that starting production and sales of these three models in current business environment where the demand for EVs is declining significantly would likely result in further losses over the long term.” Honda said.
O SUV Prototype Revisited
The midsize O SUV was planned to be the first O Series model to go into production at its EV Hub in Ohio. Launch plans originally called for a North American debut in the first half of 2026, with other markets expected to follow.
Inside, the O SUV featured a high-tech environment with a yoke-style steering wheel, wide triple-screen displays, and a streamlined center console. In addition to futuristic styling, the O Series was planned to debut new technologies, including Honda’s vehicle operation system called ASIMO OS. The name payed homage to Honda’s friendly ASIMO, a humanoid walking robot that first appeared more than 20 years ago.
O Saloon Prototype Revisited
Called the flagship vehicle of the O Series, the O Saloon would have turned heads on the street with its sleek and low stance. A production model based on the prototype was originally planned to launch in late 2026 for North America, followed by other markets.
Honda developed a spacious cabin for the driver and passengers in the O Saloon. The architecture presented a light and airy look, with sporty and supportive seating. Along with the yoke steering wheel and electronic steer-by-wire, the driver could access information and entertainment via the triple screen dash displays.
Acura RSX Prototype Revisited
The dynamically styled RSX was expected to be the first vehicle to ride on Honda’s new EV platform shared with the O Series. The RSX prototype featured dual-motor all-wheel drive, and double wishbone front suspension with sport tuning.
Like the O Series, the RSX was planned to be built at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio, plant that features a flexible production system, allowing gas engine, gas-electric hybrid, and full EVs to be manufactured.
Of course, Honda continues to feature a wide variety of models in the U.S. market, including the Civic, Accord, New Prelude, HR-V, CR-V, Pilot, Passport, Ridgeline, and Odyssey. Many of these vehicles offer hybrid powertrains.
Note: Prototype vehicles are shown in this story. Honda has cancelled production plans for the O Series and Acura RSX.
News source and photos courtesy of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.; RSX photos courtesy of Acura.
Story (commentary) 2026 by CarNichiWa.com