No, Honda is not an Indian company. It is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Honda is among the largest manufacturers of automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment in the world. The company’s popular automobile models include Civic, Accord and CRV, while its two-wheeler portfolio includes popular scooter models like Activa and high-performance motorcycles like CBR series. Furthermore, Honda also manufactures light business jets and power equipment like outboard motors and generators.
Honda is the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles since the year 1959 and is also a global leader in internal combustion engines. It is present in multiple markets worldwide, with a particularly strong presence in China and United States.
| Details | Info |
| Founded | 1946 |
| Founder | Soichiro Honda |
| Headquarters | Tokyo, Japan |
| CEO | Toshihiro Mibe |
| Sector | Manufacturing |
Company History
Honda Technical Research Institute was founded in the year 1946 by Soichiro Honda, prior to incorporating as Honda Motor Company Limited in 1948. The company initially manufactured motor-powered bicycles. In the year 1949, Honda introduced its first complete motorcycle, The Dream D-Type, which was equipped with a 98cc two-stroke engine. This was followed by the launch of The Super Cup in 1958, which became a best-selling motorcycle.
Honda entered the automobile segment by launching T360 truck, followed by S500 sports car in the year 1963. The company launched Honda 1300 sedan in 1969, thereby entering the passenger car market. In the 1970s, Honda launches multiple automobile models, including Civic and Accord.
Honda introduced its luxury car brand Acura in the United States in the year 1986, followed by its first SUV model, Honda CRV, in 1997. In the year 2011, Honda entered the aviation market by delivering HondaJet.
Current Status
Honda sold 18 million motorcycles globally in 2024 and continues to maintain 40% share in global motorcycle sales. Its best-selling automobile models are Civic, Accord and Prologue EV SUV. Key markets for Honda are North America, Europe and Asia. Honda’s recent product launches include Honda Prelude, a hybrid sports electric coupe with two engines, and Honda WN7 electric motorcycle.
Honda has created a new automobile development unit for newer innovations, including electric vehicles. The company is collaborating with Sony for Afeela EVs, scheduled to launch in 2026.
Future Outlook
Honda aims to achieve 100% electric vehicle/fuel cell sales by 2040 and carbon neutrality by 2050. The company plans to roll out its 0 series small electric vehicles, Afeela EVs and two compact EV models in the year 2026. Honda is looking to capitalise on the projected global demand for 60 million motorcycles by the year 2030.