30 Interesting Facts About Honda

Honda is a renowned Japanese automotive and engineering company with a global presence. Founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda and Takeo Fujisawa, the company has since become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of automobiles, motorcycles, and power equipment. Honda is known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability, which has earned the brand a strong reputation among consumers. Their diverse range of products includes popular car models like the Civic and Accord, as well as iconic motorcycles like the Super Cub. Beyond transportation, Honda also produces engines, lawnmowers, generators, and other power equipment. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and technological advancements, Honda continues to be a prominent player in the automotive and engineering industries.

1. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. was founded on September 24, 1948, in Hamamatsu, Japan, by Soichiro Honda and Takeo Fujisawa.
2. The company’s first product was a motorized bicycle known as the Honda Type A, which later evolved into the iconic Honda Cub series.
3. Honda initially gained fame for its motorcycles and became the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer in the 1960s.
4. The Honda Super Cub, introduced in 1958, has become one of the best-selling motor vehicles in history, surpassing 100 million units sold worldwide.
5. The Honda S500, introduced in 1963, was the company’s first sports car and marked its entry into the automotive industry.
6. The Honda Civic and Accord are two of Honda’s most successful car models, known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and popularity worldwide.
7. In 1972, Honda introduced the Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion (CVCC) engine, known for its low emissions and fuel efficiency, contributing to Honda’s reputation for environmentally friendly technology.
8. Honda has been at the forefront of automotive innovations, including the introduction of Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) technology.
9. In 1986, Honda launched the luxury division Acura in North America, which became the first Japanese luxury car brand.
10. Honda invests heavily in research and development, with advanced centers like the Honda Research Institute and the Asaka R&D Center.
11. Honda has a rich motorsport history and has been actively involved in Formula One racing as an engine supplier and, at times, as a full works team.
12. Honda has consistently focused on environmentally friendly technologies and has developed hybrid and electric vehicles like the Honda Insight and Honda Clarity.
13. Honda’s humanoid robot ASIMO, introduced in 2000, showcases the company’s expertise in robotics and advanced engineering.
14. In 2015, Honda entered the aviation industry with the introduction of the Honda Jet, a light business jet known for its innovative design.
15. Honda has manufacturing facilities in various countries, including the United States, Japan, China, Canada,India and the United Kingdom.
16. Honda has a dominant presence in motorcycle racing, winning multiple championships in MotoGP and other racing series.
17. Honda’s corporate philosophy is encapsulated in its “Three Joys” principle: “The Joy of Buying,” “The Joy of Selling,” and “The Joy of Creating.”
18. In 2006, Honda’s FCX Clarity set the Guinness World Record for the world’s first production fuel cell vehicle.
19. Honda has actively pursued sustainable practices, such as reducing CO2 emissions from its manufacturing processes and increasing the use of renewable energy.
20. Honda places a strong emphasis on safety and has received high safety ratings for many of its vehicles from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and also NCAP.
21. Honda is a truly global brand, with a wide presence in more than 150 countries worldwide.
22. In addition to its own operations, Honda has engaged in numerous joint ventures with other companies in various industries, including automotive and power equipment manufacturing.
23. Honda has pioneered safety technologies, such as the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which enhances crash safety and reduces cabin intrusion during collisions.
24. The Honda Accord has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States for several decades, known for its reliability and practicality.
25. Honda is the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world, producing a wide range of motorcycles, including off-road, sport, and touring bikes.
26. The Honda Foundation, established in 1977, supports environmental, educational, and charitable initiatives around the world.
27. Honda has been a pioneer in hydrogen fuel cell technology and introduced the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, a hydrogen-powered vehicle for clean and sustainable transportation.
28. Honda is known for its efficient and innovative manufacturing processes, which have contributed to its reputation for producing reliable and high-quality vehicles.
29. Honda vehicles have received numerous awards and accolades over the years, recognizing their reliability, safety features, and overall value.
30. Honda has five vehicle facilities in the United States, located in Ohio, Indiana, and Alabama. Over the last 40 years, Honda has produced over 30 million automobiles and light trucks in the United States.