Honda kills the Element

The Element was first shown as a concept car in the form of the Honda Model X at the 2001 Detroit Motor Show, and went into production a year later, at the end of 2002. The Element featured a multi-functional cargo area, versatile seating and a dirt-friendly interior with washable floors, and was hugely popular among the youths in America.

Honda sold almost 70,000 units of the Element in its first full year in 2003, and the car received several upgrades throughout its life, yet managed to stay relevant and competitive in its eight years of production. Sales however declined to about 15,000 last year, and Honda has made the decision to can the model. Overall, Honda has sold 325,000 Elements since its launch in 2002.

According to John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda, "The Element proved that ultimate functionality can often come from thinking inside the box. It made boxy vehicle designs cool, and Element owners continue to enjoy its unique styling and unmatched versatility."