| Strengthening production |
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For the last decade, Honda has been able to meet growing demand in world auto markets and achieve steady growth. And as our product lineup evolves and we take steps to meet accelerating demand worldwide, it is vital that we strengthen our advanced manufacturing systems in Japan, extending our global production capacity from this foundation.
Honda has announced it will build a new automobile plant in Yorii, Saitama Prefecture, and an automobile engine plant in neighboring Ogawa. We are also strengthening the automatic transmission production capacity of Hamamatsu Factory and concentrating motorcycle manufacturing at Kumamoto Factory, among other measures to enhance efficiency. Naturally, we are implementing state-of-the-art production technology. We are also committed to making sure these facilities achieve the highest levels of product quality, environmental responsibility and people-friendliness. We’ll work hard to ensure that our facilities are truly welcomed by their host communities. More than ever, Honda factories will feature not only advanced technology, but also a high level of social responsibility. |
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| Leading environmental technology |
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Manufacturers of mobility products have an obligation to help conserve the global environment. Striving to lead the way in the application of environmental technology, in FY2007 Honda set specific targets in the area of environmental conservation. We’re engaged in a broad range of initiatives to attain these targets.
For example, we’ve announced plans to introduce a new dedicated hybrid vehicle by 2009. Striving to further improve fuel efficiency, we’re also pursuing development of a next-generation diesel engine and an even more advanced version of our VTEC engine. We became the first Japanese carmaker to introduce a vehicle in Brazil that runs on bioethanol. And in 2008 we’re planning to introduce a new fuel cell vehicle based on the FCX Concept in Japan and the US.
In addition to creating new technologies, we’re also taking on the challenge of developing new forms of energy. For instance, we’re beginning commercial production of our own solar panels and researching the production of ethanol from non-edible plant material such as rice straw. |
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| Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Soichiro Honda |
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In 2006 we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the birth of our founder, Soichiro Honda. We presented an exhibition of classic products from Honda’s history at the Welcome Plaza showroom at our Tokyo headquarters. The event focused on our origins and the many sources of inspiration that we wish to pass on to the next generation.
Today, with corporate values so much in question and incidents of misconduct frequently being revealed, the spirit of our founder guides each of us in the worldwide Honda Group to make decisions and take actions truly worthy of Honda. This is particularly germane at a time of intense struggle for survival in an increasingly competitive global auto industry. |
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| Sustainability |
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The Honda CSR Report 2007 is an overview of our corporate social responsibility initiatives over the last year. There is much work to be done and many issues to be faced.
Going forward, Honda will seek to engage customers, suppliers, associates, shareholders, investors, residents of the communities that host our operations and other stakeholders in ongoing communications that will help us enhance our activities and attain true sustainability.
We warmly welcome readers of this report to share their views with us. |
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