Honda announces new US-built Ridgeline pickup amid CR-V sales leadership
Production plans in Alabama revealed following CR-V's historic sales performance.
1Honda's US Move
Honda confirmed its next-gen Ridgeline pickup will be produced in the US starting 2026. The Alabama plant will resume assembly by 2028 after temporary stoppage, a decision linked to adapting to California's emission regulations while maintaining market presence.
2Sales Performance
Ridgeline sales dipped 3% in H1 2024, with annual volumes stuck at 41-52k units since 2021 - far behind segment leader Toyota Tacoma's 270k sales. Honda aims to broaden appeal by enhancing the model's rugged capabilities beyond its current car-like refinement.
3CR-V's Breakthrough
The announcement coincides with CR-V becoming America's best-selling vehicle in H1 for the first time. Its 6% sales growth benefited from production constraints plaguing Ford F-Series and Toyota RAV4, traditionally the sales leaders.
4Production Strategy
Honda executives remained ambiguous about potential shift to body-on-frame construction. The focus is boosting capabilities while retaining unibody advantages. The teaser image suggests evolutionary design changes rather than radical platform overhaul.
5Market Dynamics
Despite Tacoma's market dominance, Honda seeks to strengthen Ridgeline's niche as the refined midsize pickup. The planned enhancements target both loyalists and new buyers wanting more capability without sacrificing the model's signature ride comfort.
6Industry Significance
Honda's decision reflects automakers' production flexibility amid regulatory shifts. Maintaining US manufacturing supports local jobs and supply chains while ensuring compliance. This balancing act will define competitiveness in evolving pickup truck segments.
Original article: US Top News and Analysis — Honda ABD'de yeni Ridgeline pikap modelini duyurdu