The natural path of progress

In 1979, Honda became the first Japanese automaker to begin producing in America with the introduction of its CR 250 Elsinore motorcycle. It was just the beginning of bigger things to come. The 1982 opening of a new plant in Marysville, Ohio, signaled Honda's commitment to North American auto production.

As the first Japanese automaker to build motor vehicles in the U.S., Honda is proud to invest in America, its economy and its people. Honda's contributions to the processes of manufacturing and design have helped to improve the U.S. automotive industry, as well as others.

The Center for Automotive Research recently conducted a study on the economic contributions of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and all of its U.S. affiliate companies and associated retail operations for the calendar year 2007. The results show the tremendous positive impact that Honda has made over the past 50 years. Highlights of the study include:

• More than 367,000 private sector jobs, and $17 billion in annual wages and salaries, are generated as a result of Honda's total U.S. operations.
• Almost 152,000 private sector jobs are a result of Honda's direct employment in the United States. Associated wages and salaries are estimated to be $9 billion.

More than 215,000 private sector jobs are generated by Honda's dealerships and Honda product-related retail employment in the United States. Their estimated associated wages and salaries are approximately $8 billion.

While our positive economic impact has been substantial, we've worked hard to minimize any environmental effects. There's no better example of that than our newest plant in Greensburg, Indiana. As with other Honda facilities, Greensburg incorporates our zero waste-to-landfill philosophy. We produce thousands of Civics every month in Indiana without ever contributing to a landfill. Further consideration for the facility's interaction within its immediate surroundings has resulted in a plant that stretches across 1,600 acres, yet has the smallest environmental footprint of all North American auto plants.

The future of Honda in North America remains one of expansion and innovation. Milestones such as the Honda Aircraft Company, Marine Engine Research Facility and the production of the most affordable hybrid car in America, highlight Honda's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in North America.

For more information about Honda North America visit corporate.honda.com.