Why did Honda discontinue the Clarity plug-in?

Honda discontinued the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid largely because demand was tepid, the costs of maintaining multiple propulsion systems were high, and the company shifted its resources toward faster-selling electrified models and future BEV programs.

Beyond that concise summary, the decision to end the Clarity lineup reflected a mix of consumer appetite, cost considerations, and Honda’s broader electrification strategy. The Clarity family—covering fuel-cell, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric variants—never achieved the scale needed to justify ongoing investment, especially as Honda planned to accelerate its BEV roadmap and pursue more popular electrified options.

Clarity's brief run and the decision timeline

Honda introduced the Clarity family to showcase different propulsion technologies and provide lower-emission options under one model line. The lineup included the Clarity Fuel Cell (FCV), Clarity Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and Clarity Electric (BEV). Availability was limited to select markets, and the plug-in variant did not become a volume seller in the United States or Europe.

• The Clarity family encompassed FCV, PHEV, and BEV variants, with the PHEV serving as the most relevant option for U.S. buyers during its run.


• The Clarity PHEV offered about 47 miles of EPA-rated electric range, depending on year and configuration.


• Sales were modest in North America and other markets, limiting the model’s scale and profitability.


• Honda signaled a shift away from the Clarity lineup by ending Clarity production for the U.S. market after the 2021 model year, signaling a move toward a broader electrification strategy.

In short, the Clarity lineup never gained meaningful volume, and the ongoing costs of supporting three propulsion systems did not align with Honda’s evolving electrification strategy.

Why the plug-in variant faced the most challenges

The plug-in hybrid variant faced a unique set of headwinds within the Clarity family and in the broader market. A concise look at the main factors explains why Honda chose to discontinue it as part of a broader pivot toward scalable electrification.

• Market demand: There was limited consumer appetite for plug-in hybrids in a market increasingly favoring longer-range BEVs and simpler, all-electric ownership.


• Economics and complexity: Maintaining a dual powertrain increased manufacturing and service costs, with little payoff in volumes for a low-sell-through model.


• Strategic shift to BEVs and hybrids: Honda prioritized electrified options with broader appeal and higher sales potential, including upcoming BEV platforms and crossovers.


• Infrastructure context: Although BEVs rely on charging networks, the Clarity PHEV sat in a transitional space between conventional hybrids and all-electric vehicles, complicating its value proposition as markets evolved.

Taken together, these dynamics reduced the business case for continuing the Clarity PHEV, prompting Honda to retire the model in favor of future-ready electrified options.

What Honda did next

With the Clarity lineup winding down, Honda redirected its development and product planning toward more scalable electrification options and upcoming BEVs. The company has emphasized electrified SUVs and crossovers and pursued new BEV programs to meet regulatory goals and consumer demand.

• Shifting focus to higher-volume configurations: Prioritized hybrids and BEVs in key markets rather than maintaining a niche, multi-powertrain family.


• New BEV initiatives: Announced plans for a broader BEV portfolio, including the Prologue electric SUV developed with General Motors and other BEV programs planned for North America and beyond.


• Resource reallocation: Redirected engineering, production, and marketing resources from Clarity to more widely adopted electrified models.

By reallocating its resources, Honda aimed to offer more compelling electric options with greater range, faster charging, and broader market availability, reducing the need for a dedicated plug-in-hybrid model.

Regional context

United States

In the U.S., Honda ended Clarity model-year 2021 sales as part of the broader electrification push. The absence of a direct, mass-market Clarity replacement underscores the company’s focus on more popular electrified models in the years that followed.

Global perspective

Honda's decision to discontinue the Clarity variants reflected a global strategy to emphasize scalable electrification—hybrids and BEVs—over a narrow three-variant approach that proved difficult to justify economically in a shifting market.

Summary

Honda discontinued the Clarity plug-in hybrid primarily due to weak demand, high maintenance costs for multiple propulsion systems, and a strategic pivot toward more scalable electrified options. The move aligned with Honda's broader plan to accelerate its BEV and hybrid lineup, invest in new electric platforms, and prioritize models with broader market appeal and growth potential. The end of the Clarity era marked a shift in Honda's electrification priorities as the company prepared for a future dominated by broader BEV adoption.

Conclusion: Honda chose to retire the Clarity PHEV because it could not justify the ongoing investment against the backdrop of slow sales and a strategic push toward a more widely adopted electrified lineup.

Why did Honda discontinue the Clarity PHEV?

According to Honda's official statement on why the Clarity FCV was being pulled from its line-up, it cited a low market demand for fuel cell vehicles, the dearth of hydrogen fuel stations, a lackluster market reception, and a lack of government subsidies for fuel cell vehicles.

How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Honda Clarity PHEV?

A Honda Clarity plug-in hybrid battery replacement can cost anywhere from approximately $8,500 to over $12,000 at a dealership, depending on the service center and whether it's a full or remanufactured unit. Some independent shops may offer lower prices, sometimes as low as $8,500, though they might not use official OEM parts. Costs can also be lower if purchasing a used battery from a third-party source, but this is not a recommended option unless you have experience with this type of repair and are prepared for potential future issues. 
This video explains how much it costs to replace a hybrid battery and how to extend the battery's life: 49sGreentec EV and Hybrid BatteriesYouTube · Jun 11, 2025
Cost breakdown

• Dealership: $8,500 - $12,000+ 
• Independent shops: Can be lower, but depends on parts and labor 
• Used parts: Potentially cheaper, but often without a warranty and with high risk 

Factors that affect cost

• Part type: OEM vs. aftermarket vs. used
• Installation location: Dealership vs. independent shop
• Part quality: New vs. refurbished vs. remanufactured
• Labor costs: Can vary significantly depending on your location
• Drivetrain: All-electric versions might have slightly different replacement costs 

How to get an accurate estimate

• Contact a dealership: Get a quote from a Honda dealership in your area for an OEM battery replacement. 
• Contact independent hybrid/EV specialists: Get a quote from a reputable independent shop that specializes in hybrids and EVs. These shops may have different options for parts and labor that can lower costs. 
• Check online parts suppliers: Look up prices for replacement batteries from online retailers, but remember that this will not include installation costs. 

Does Honda have a 2025 plug-in hybrid?

Hey there automotive enthusiasts. Today we're diving into Honda's latest evolution of their beloved CRV. The 2025. Model that's making waves with its first ever plug-in hybrid variant.

What is the problem with Honda Clarity plug-in hybrid 2019?

Common problems reported for the 2019 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid include issues with the air conditioning system (especially the evaporator after the condenser is replaced under warranty), a failing 12-volt battery, and occasional power loss caused by a variety of issues like a malfunctioning hybrid system, DC-DC converter, or fuel pump. Several recalls have also been issued for this model, particularly regarding the rear seat belt assemblies and fuel pump. 
Major problems 
This video discusses common problems and faults with the Honda Clarity, including issues with the 12-volt battery: 52sTechnical EvolutionYouTube · Sep 6, 2025

• Air Conditioning (AC): A frequent issue is AC failure, especially for the evaporator after the condenser has been replaced under an extended warranty. 
• 12-Volt Battery: The 12-volt battery can fail without warning, leading to a variety of warning lights and potential drivability issues. This is common in many hybrids and EVs. 
• Loss of Power: Some owners report sudden power loss while driving, which can be caused by problems with the hybrid system, a faulty DC-DC converter, a failing fuel pump, or issues with the electronic control module (ECM). 
• Hybrid System/Battery: Reports of the hybrid battery deteriorating, or "manufacturer control" codes, can indicate a serious problem requiring professional diagnosis and potential repair or replacement under the hybrid battery warranty. 
• Check Engine Light: The check engine light can illuminate for various reasons, from a simple sensor issue to more serious problems like a flashing light that indicates a severe engine misfire. 
• Rear Seat Belts: A recall was issued because the seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism may not lock as intended. 

Minor problems

• Passenger Sun Visor: The spring on the passenger side visor can fail. 
• Wipers: Some drivers find the wiper blades loud and ineffective. 
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Some owners have reported issues with the LKAS and associated sensors. 

Important considerations

• Recall Repairs: Ensure all outstanding recalls have been addressed by a dealer. 
• Professional Diagnosis: When the check engine light comes on, or if you experience power loss, get a professional diagnosis, as it could indicate a serious problem requiring expensive repairs. 
• Battery Health: Pay attention to the health of both the high-voltage hybrid battery and the 12-volt battery, as issues with either can cause significant problems. 
• Winter Performance: The hybrid battery's electric range can drop significantly in cold weather. 
• Erratic Behavior: If the battery runs out of charge, especially on hills, the car may exhibit strange behavior, with the engine revving loudly as it struggles to accelerate.