Car Brands HQ - Learn about Honda

Soichiro Honda was unable to use his car during World War II because of the gasoline shortages. As a result, he had the novel idea of attaching a small engine to his bicycle. He enlisted the aid of bicycle shops all across Japan and by 1964 Honda Motors was the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. This led the company to introduce the T360 pickup truck in 1963. Soon thereafter, Honda launched the S500 sports car that featured rear wheels driven with chains like a motorcycle. Honda’s commitment to technological advancements is exemplified by the fact that since 2006 the company’s motor sports division has supplied the engine for every racecar running in the Indianapolis 500.

Honda was originally manufacturing small to mid-sized highly fuel efficient cars, such as the Civic and Accord. Although these formats are still available, Honda has begun to produce full size automobiles, mini-vans, light body trucks and SUVs. Honda also supplies numerous hybrid and electric vehicles. Honda’s supplies the worldwide automotive market with factories in Asia, Europe, North and South America.

Honda vehicles have won numerous awards. In 2006, Honda received a rare double honor win from Motor Trend. The Civic was declared Car of the Year and the Ridgeline, Honda’s first entrant into the full-size, pickup segment, won Motor Trend Truck of the Year. Honda has also earned five of the EPAs top ten fuel efficient models. This commitment to quality and engineering has made Honda the fifth largest producer of automobiles in the world.