Honda Motor Company Limited is a Japanese multinational corporation renowned for producing motorcycles, automobiles, and power equipment, with its head office in Minato, Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1946 by the Japanese inventor, engineer, and auto racing enthusiast Soichiro Honda. The company's current form with over half a century of history represents his innovative, daring, and nontraditional approach and mindset.

Honda introduced its first motorcycle in 1949, and by 1959 they were the world’s largest motorcycle producer, an accomplishment they still hold up to now. Additionally, Honda leads the global production of internal combustion engines, boasting an annual output surpassing 14 million units. In 2001, Honda became the second-largest Japanese automaker and the eighth-largest in the world in 2015.

Honda demonstrated its prowess in robotics and artificial intelligence by introducing ASIMO, a humanoid robot showcasing advanced capabilities. Honda also entered the aerospace industry in 2004 with the establishment of GE Honda Aero Engines and in 2012, Honda released the HA-420 HondaJet.

History of Honda Motor Company, Ltd.

The Honda began in post-World War II when Soichiro Honda decided to start his engineering ventures after the war ruined his previous operations. In 1946, Soichiro Honda seized the opportunity to motorize bicycles which were then the primary mode of transport. Mr. Honda modified the Imperial Army generator engines that originally used to power wireless radios and altered them into auxiliary power for bicycles. This endeavor laid the foundation for the birth of the Honda A-type engine. By 1949 Honda began manufacturing motorcycles and released a Honda-produced motorcycle known as the D-type. In 1963 they embarked on automobile production by introducing their first car, the Honda T360 mini-truck followed by the S500 sports car.

What is “HONDA”?

Soichiro Honda decided to name his company by giving it his last name like other prominent automotive pioneers such as Henry Ford of Ford Motors, Kiichiro Toyoda of Toyota Motors, Enzo Ferrari of Ferrari, and others. Born in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan in 1906, his surname, "Honda," translates to "original rice paddy" in Japanese. While seemingly unrelated to the company's core activities, the name has nevertheless become synonymous with reliability, innovation, and trustworthiness.

Honda Motor Company has achieved global recognition for its diverse lineup of vehicles, including iconic models such as the Accord, Civic, and Odyssey. Known for their durability, reliability, efficiency, and stylish design, Honda has consistently delivered quality craftsmanship. Honda also demonstrates its commitment to innovation, reaffirming its position as a pioneering force in the automotive industry.

Meaning of HONDA Logo

The Honda logo is a capital letter H, which comes from the first letter of the second name of the company founder, Soichiro Honda. Mr Honda came up with the “Yume No Chikara,” company slogan in the 1940s which translates as “Power of Dreams” and eventually evolved into Honda’s motto. Over the years, the Honda logo has undergone several transformations. The original badge featured a red rectangular logo with a stylized capital letter "H" at the top, flanked by vertical bars. Below the word "HONDA" was delicately written in traditional serif font which was used from 1961 to 1969. In 1969 a new logo emerged featuring a vertically placed black rectangle with a narrow and tall letter “H” placed on a solid black background and lasted until 1981. In 1981, a redesigned logo was unveiled featuring a white background and a black letter “H” enclosed within a square shape with round edges. Beneath the logo is an enlarged black bolded serif in uppercase, a motif that lasted until 2000.

In 2000, The Honda emblem underwent notable changes increasing its size and adding color, transitioning from black and white to a sleek metallic gray. The lines of the letter "H" were elongated, now touching the frame, imbuing the emblem with a sense of cohesion and strength. Additionally, the letter size was reduced, contributing to a more balanced and visually appealing image.

Finally

Honda's journey from the beginning to the present day is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. Over the years, Honda has established itself as a leading automotive manufacturer, renowned for crafting reliable, durable, stylish, efficient, and sensible vehicles. The Honda lineup boasts a diverse array of models, from the compact and agile Jazz to the luxurious and refined Legend. Whether you choose the versatile CR-V for family adventures or the sleek Accord for commuting in style, you can rest assured that you're making a great choice. You can check our Honda stocklist for more latest and most affordable models.