Innovation
The power of curiosity
All it takes to change things is a simple question. Someone who wonders... Why is that so? Is there any other way? Can we do better?
Soichiro once said, "Inventiveness, originality and new design are about exceeding the expectations of the audience."
Driven to innovate
From the outset, Honda has transformed dreams into practical, life-enhancing technologies for everyone. We are always excited about the results of our ideas - even though they may not seem successful at first
The chimney engine
In 1947, Soichiro designed his first engine – the 'chimney'. It was a genius idea... and an early failure.
After the success of his first product, the motorized bike, Soichiro was determined to take the next step: creating a new engine.
The first prototype engine was the legendary 'chimney' engine. (Why 'chimney'? Because that's what he looked like!)
It was designed to reduce fuel consumption and increase power, but unfortunately the development of this engine stopped before it could be put into production. But still, the basics of this engine were good – which would prove itself in the future. This was the earliest example of the Honda way of using failures for future success.
VTEC
Reinventing the engine? Why not.
For Honda's research and design team, it was a challenge to come up with a new technology that would lead to the next generation of Honda engines. They had to look for a mechanism that could change the valve timing of the engine at both high and low speeds, so that the engine would become more efficient. The result was Honda's VTEC (Variable Valve Timing & Lift Control System) engine.
This was a great success and a unique one in the world. Honda's new Integra became the first production model in which the VTEC could be shown. The engine became the gold standard in engine technology.
Pleasant to meet, ASIMO
In October 2000, we presented ASIMO to you, the world's most advanced humanoid robot.
ASIMO is one of our most inspiring projects. This robot with human features is designed as a multifunctional mobility aid. The name is short for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility.
ASIMO runs and runs on sloping and uneven surface. He can turn around smoothly, climb stairs and get stuff off the ground. ASIMO can even respond to simple voice commands and recognize faces. And through his camera eyes, ASIMO can map its surroundings and knows the way along both stationary and moving objects.
And the price goes to...
Honda wins important prizes for energy efficiency.
2002 was a good year for our trophy cabinet. Honda Motors won in three categories in the International Engines of the Year Awards, ahead of the Insight IMA, the Civic Hybrid and the 2.0-liter engine that drove the S2000 sports car.
The Insight also received a very special recognition from the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, which named the model the most environmentally friendly car in 2002.
Another breakthrough for Honda in the same year was the development of the FCX, the first fuel cell car in the world to receive the 'zero emissions vehicle' certificate.
Honda's dreams get wings
We decided that planes could be cheaper, more fuel efficient and cleaner. That's why we started designing an aircraft that met all those conditions.
Work on the HondaJet began in the mid-1980s, and in December 2003 the aircraft made its first ever flight over North Carolina in the United States.
The HondaJet is an experimental, compact business aircraft, and as you might expect from Honda, it looks like no other aircraft. The engines sit on top of the wings instead of underneath; through this innovation, and many others, the HondaJet can achieve higher cruising speeds, with lower fuel consumption – and with emissions values that only account for 40% of the pollutants of similar aircraft.
HR-V compact SUV
The Honda HR-V is a small and sporty SUV that packs infinite versatility into a compact urban design – with surprisingly much space inside.
FCEV Concept
The sleekly designed Honda FCEV Concept is a five-seater that gives more than a hint of the possible style direction that Honda's new generation of fuel cell cars is taking. You will see him sometime in 2015 in Europe.
NSX Concept Supercar
The next chapter of the NSX book was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 2013. His introduction is scheduled for 2015. Chances are that the experience of Honda's road cars will change again.