Honda's 500,000,000th motorcycle rolls out from the production line
Honda announced that its cumulative global production of engine/motor-powered motorcycles has reached 500 million units, a world-first achievement, 76 years after the company began mass production of motorcycles in 1949 with the Dream D-Type.
Since its founding in 1948, Honda has focused on developing and providing products and services that meet customer needs globally, based on the principle that “the purpose of technology is to make people’s lives easier.”
1949 Honda Dream D-Type
The company began mass-producing motorcycles at its first overseas facility in Belgium in 1963, and has since expanded production globally, adhering to the principle of “producing locally where there is demand.” This led to the achievement of the 100 million-unit milestone in 1997, 200 million in 2008, and 300 million in 2014. In 2018, Honda’s annual production exceeded 20 million units for the first time, and cumulative global production reached 400 million units in 2019. Despite a temporary decline in annual production in 2020 due to COVID-19, global demand has since recovered to pre-pandemic levels. In addition to internal combustion engine models, Honda designated 2024 as its ‘first year of global expansion’ for electric-powered two-wheelers, launching new models to create a diverse product lineup.
Honda now offers a wide range of models, including commuters, larger leisure bikes, and electric vehicles, with an annual production capacity exceeding 20 million units across 23 countries and 37 production entities. The company delivers its products and services worldwide through a network of over 30,000 Honda dealers.
Honda stated its commitment to further strengthening its motorcycle business by providing appealing products and services through a multi-faceted approach, aiming to realize the “joy and freedom of mobility” for a broader customer base, build a highly efficient business structure, and achieve carbon neutrality, including through electrification.
Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President and Representative Executive Officer of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., stated that for Honda, the motorcycle business is their “founder’s business” and will remain a core part of the company. He expressed gratitude to customers and all stakeholders involved in reaching the 500 million unit milestone, from development to production, sales, and service. He added that Honda will continue to challenge itself to expand the joy of its customers worldwide.
The 500 millionth motorcycle, an Activa, rolled off the production line at the Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Private Limited (HMSI) Plant 4 in Vittalpur, Gujarat, India.
Honda’s presence in the Philippines began in 1973 with the establishment of Mariwasa-Honda, Inc., which initiated motorcycle production. Subsequently, in December 1983, the company’s name was changed to Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI).
