Key Takeaways

  • The Honda Prologue is the latest EV to exit the U.S. market.
  • Several automakers are discontinuing models due to tariffs and changing consumer preferences.
  • Despite the losses, new EVs like the Rivian R2 are entering the market.
  • Sales of EVs are recovering, but still lag behind previous years.

Honda Prologue’s Departure

The Honda Prologue has officially been discontinued, marking the end of the automaker’s all-electric vehicle lineup in the U.S. This decision reflects Honda’s retreat from the EV market, which contrasts sharply with trends in other regions.

The Prologue’s exit raises questions about other EVs that have also left the U.S. market and the reasons behind these changes.

Market Dynamics

The termination of the $7,500 federal tax credit significantly impacted EV sales in the U.S. Other factors contributing to the reduction in available models include tariffs, shifting consumer preferences, production costs, and regulatory changes. Recent data indicates that EV sales accounted for about 5.8% of the total market in the second quarter of 2026, with 247,226 units sold. Although sales increased compared to the first quarter, they remain lower than the same period last year, prior to the tax credit’s expiration.

Despite these challenges, there are signs of recovery. For instance, the gap in sales between 2025 and 2026 has narrowed, although Q2 sales were still 20.5% lower than in 2025.

Automaker Discontinuations

Afeela

The Afeela, initially introduced as a prototype by Sony in 2020, was part of a joint venture with Honda. Despite a strong marketing push, it never reached production. In March 2026, the venture announced it would cease development on the Afeela-branded EVs.

Honda and Acura

Honda’s ambitious plans for its O Series, including a mid-sized SUV and other prototypes, have been halted. The company stopped development of the Acura RDX and other models in March 2026, citing U.S. tariffs and competition from Chinese manufacturers. The Prologue, which had seen some success initially, was confirmed to be going out of production in July.

Hyundai

Hyundai has performed well in the U.S. EV market but made the decision to discontinue the Ioniq 6 due to tariffs. The Ioniq 6 is manufactured in South Korea and imported, while other models are produced domestically.

Nissan

Nissan will not produce a 2026 model year for its Ariya SUV in the U.S. The Ariya was first unveiled in 2020 and was anticipated to be a significant addition to Nissan’s electric lineup.

Polestar

Polestar has faced challenges due to U.S. restrictions on Chinese technology. The company has been effectively barred from the U.S. market without authorization from the Department of Commerce. It will continue to sell existing stock of its models but cannot introduce new vehicles.

Tesla Model S and Model X

Tesla announced the end of production for the Model S and Model X in January to shift focus towards AI and robotics. The last units rolled off the assembly line this spring, as Tesla reallocates resources to new projects.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen has decided to halt production of the ID.4 in the U.S. to prioritize high-volume vehicles. The ID. Buzz is currently on hiatus but is expected to return in 2027.

Volvo

Volvo will discontinue its EX30 and EX30 Cross Country models in the U.S. after summer 2026. The company plans to continue offering its larger EX60 and EX90 SUVs in the market.