An all new light truck model based on Honda's popular and innovative Model X concept vehicle will be produced by Honda of America Manufacturing at its East Liberty (Ohio) Plant beginning late this year, Honda announced today.
"This decision demonstrates the high level of flexibility within our North American manufacturing operations," said Koki Hirashima, president of Honda of America Mfg. "The production of this innovative light truck model will further expand our manufacturing capabilities beyond our current production of passenger cars, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and engines."
The East Liberty Plant was chosen following a review of Honda's global manufacturing capabilities. The new model will be produced on the same assembly line as the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe and Civic GX natural gas vehicle, utilizing Honda's flexible New Manufacturing System.
Adopted by ELP in conjunction with the launch of the new Civic in fall of 2000, the New Manufacturing System provides for faster, more efficient and flexible manufacturing capabilities and will help to create a smooth launch for the new model late this year.
Production capacity at ELP is expected to remain at the current level of 240,000 vehicles per year. Other plants in Honda's Global Supply Network will offset any reduction in Civic production at ELP to meet customer demand for America's best-selling compact car.
The all-new vehicle, targeted at young buyers and boasting a number of unique features including a pillar-less body side and "open wide" doors, is expected to reach Honda dealerships late this year.
"The Model X is a radical departure from traditional automotive design that we think will appeal very strongly to a new generation of car buyers. It is an important new addition to Honda's growing family of innovative light truck models," said Tom Elliott, executive vice president of American Honda.
While the official name has yet to be announced, the new vehicle will closely emulate the multi-functional Model X design concept introduced last year at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The exterior is a simple and highly functional two box shape surrounding a rugged and versatile interior, designed for maximum utility to accommodate surfboards, mountain bikes, snowboards or just about anything else that you need for your next road trip.
Honda began assembling motorcycles in America in 1979, with U.S. automobile manufacturing starting in 1982. Honda currently builds and assembles products in 11 manufacturing plants in North America, with three major R&D centers in the U.S. The world's preeminent engine-maker, Honda produced more than 12 million engines globally in 2001 for its diverse line-up of automobiles, motorcycles and power products.
For more information and downloadable high-resolution images of Honda vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com.