Honda has reached a major milestone, announcing the cumulative global production of 500 million motorcycles. This achievement comes 76 years after the company began mass production in 1949 with the launch of its first model, the Dream D-Type.
Since its founding in 1948, Honda has remained committed to developing products and technologies that enhance everyday life, guided by its core belief that “the purpose of technology is to make people’s lives easier.” This milestone reflects Honda’s enduring global presence and customer-centric approach across diverse markets.
Honda began its international motorcycle production journey in 1963 with the establishment of its first overseas facility in Belgium, guided by the principle of “producing locally where there is demand.” This strategy fueled the company’s global growth, helping it reach significant production milestones—100 million units in 1997, 200 million in 2008, and 300 million by 2014.
In 2018, Honda surpassed 20 million units in annual motorcycle production for the first time, and by 2019, total global output had crossed 400 million units. Although production temporarily dipped in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, demand has since rebounded to pre-pandemic levels worldwide.
Marking a new era, Honda designated 2024 as the “first year of global expansion” for its electric two-wheeler segment, launching new models and broadening its lineup to include both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric-powered motorcycles.
Honda now offers a broad variety of models from commuters for everyday use to larger displacement models for weekend leisure as well as electric vehicles, with an annual production capacity of more than 20 million units in 23 countries and regions and 37 production entities. The company deliver products and services to customers worldwide through a network of more than 30,000 Honda dealers.
Honda will continue its efforts to further solidify its motorcycle business, by providing attractive products and services from diversified approach, realizing the “joy and freedom of mobility” for a wider range of customers, building a highly efficient business structure, and achieving carbon neutrality, including through electrification.
For Honda, the motorcycle business is at the heart of our legacy—it’s the business our founder began, and it remains a core pillar of the company,” said Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President, and Representative Executive Officer of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
He added, “Reaching the milestone of 500 million units is a result of the trust our customers have placed in us through the years, thanks to the strength of our products, services, and global support network. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our customers and all those who contributed—from development and production to sales and service. Honda will continue to embrace new challenges as we strive to bring more joy to our customers around the world.”
