MTH has redesigned products to address certain electronic parts shortages (see Mike’s recent interview with Trainworld). Lionel could do the same (GR John seems to agree), but instead just uses excuse that components are no longer available.
They decided to discontinue production of CAB2 before the next generation product was ready.
My opinion is that Lionel made a questionable decision, and the longer this goes on, the more questionable it looks. Your opinion may differ.