Form 6-K for March 2003
Table of Contents

 


 

No.1-7628

 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 


 

FORM 6-K

 

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16

UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

FOR THE MONTH OF March 2003

 


 

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 1-07628

HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA

(Name of registrant)

 


 

HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.

(Translation of registrant’s name into English)

 

1-1, Minami-Aoyama 2-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8556, Japan

(Address of principal executive officers)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F:

 

Form 20-F     *        Form 40-F             

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):         

 

Note: Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1) only permits the submission in paper of a Form 6-K if submitted solely to provide an attached annual report to security holders.

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):             

 

Indicate by check mark whether by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Yes              No             

 

If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):82-            

 


 


Table of Contents

 

Contents

 

Exhibit 1:

 

On March 3, 2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will continue its partnership with the British American Racing(B.A.R) F1 team this year, including both the supply of engines and joint chassis development, to field a 2-car team in the 2003 F1 World Championship.

 

Exhibit 2:

 

On March 4, 2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that Honda and Teledyne Continental Motors, Inc.(TCM) will begin a joint market feasibility study for a next-generation piston aviation engine currently in development by Honda. (Ref. #C03-014)

 

Exhibit 3:

 

On March 5, 2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the new Solo, a cheery, stylish, around-town leisure bike with an air-cooled, 4-stroke 50cc engine. (Ref. #M03-015)

 

Exhibit 4:

 

On March 24, 2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that, in addition to the standard versions of its luxurious, elegantly styled Silverwing 600 and 400 large-displacement scooters, it will also offer versions equipped with Combined ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) brakes, for increased stability and more effective control while braking. (Ref. #M03-019)

 

Exhibit 5:

 

On March 25, 2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced plans to begin automobile sales in the Republic of Korea by early 2004. (Ref. #C03-018)

 

Exhibit 6:

 

On March 26, 2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that global production increased 7.7% in February over the corresponding month in 2002. (Ref. #03019)

 

Exhibit 7:

 

On March 27, 2003 A.P. Honda Co., Ltd. announced at the Bangkok Motor Show that the stylish Cub-type motorcycle Wave125, has been equipped with PGM-FI, an electronically controlled fuel injection system. (Ref. #M03-021)

 

Exhibit 8:

 

On March 31, 2003 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that as of March 2003, worldwide cumulative production of its Civic series reached 15 million units. (Ref. #C03-020)

 

Exhibit 9:

 

English translation of the Notice of Record Date that appeared on the March 13, 2003 issue of the Nippon Keizai Shimbun

 

Exhibit 10:

 

Notice of Record Date and Proposed Year End Dividend for Period ending March 31, 2003

 

Exhibit 11:

 

Third Quarter Report of fiscal third quarter and nine months period ended December 31, 2002 (which was mailed to ADR shareholders in March 2003)

 


Table of Contents

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

HONDA GIKEN KOGYO

KABUSHIKI KAISHA

( HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD )

/s/    Satoshi Aoki


Satoshi Aoki

Senior Managing and

Representative Director

 

Date: April 11, 2003

 

 


Table of Contents

 

LOGO

 

(for reference purposes)

 

Honda F1 World Championship Organization for 2003

 

 

March 3, 2003—Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced that it will continue its partnership with the British American Racing (B·A·R) F1 team this year, including both the supply of engines and joint chassis development, to field a 2-car team in the 2003 F1 World Championship.

 

With the Honda-B·A·R partnership entering its fourth year, Honda R&D is bolstering its engine and chassis development capabilities at its Tochigi Research Center, with the goal of significantly improving competitiveness and further accelerating chassis development—one of Honda’s major objectives in this, its third era of F1 participation.

 

As a further expression of its strong commitment toward F1 racing, this year Honda has assumed the role of main sponsor for the B·A·R team for the first time.

 

n Key Honda R&D Personnel

 

    Takao Kiuchi, Head of Worldwide Automobile Racing, F1 Project Leader, Honda R&D

    Ken Hashimoto, Head of Chassis Technology Development, Honda R&D

 

n Honda Racing Development Ltd. (HRD) Overview

 

    President:

  

Shoichi Tanaka

    Engineering Director:

  

Shuhei Nakamoto

    Location:

  

Bracknell, Berkshire, U.K.

    Activities:

  

The front-line representative for F1 racing activities:

-        provides technical feedback to Honda R&D’s Tochigi Research Center

-        performs engine maintenance

-        carries out public relations/liaison activities, etc.

 

LOGO

Honda RA003E

 

1


Table of Contents

 

n 2003 Honda F1 Engine Specifications

 

    Model:

  

Honda RA003E

    Type:

  

3.0L V10, normally aspirated

    Improvements:

  

Significant weight and size reduction resulting in lower center of gravity and greater concentration of mass at center of vehicle.

 

n 2003 Chassis Specifications

 

    Type:

  

B·A·R Honda 005

    Improvements:

  

A complete reconsideration of engineering criteria resulting in a more compact, lightweight design with lower center of gravity and improved aerodynamic performance.

 

n LUCKY STRIKE B· A· R Honda Overview

 

    Team Principal:

  

David Richards

    Technical Director:

  

Geoff Willis

    Drivers:

  

Jacques Villeneuve

    

Jenson Button

    Third Driver:

  

Takuma Sato

    Test Driver:

  

Anthony Davidson

 

n Comment from Takeo Fukui, Senior Managing Director, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

 

“Final testing has been completed on the new racing specifications, and we are feeling confident. We look forward to finally being a regular fixture on the winner’s podium this season. We thank our supporters for their continued confidence.”

 

  *   For further information please contact:

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.    Public Relations Division    Tel: 03-5412-1514

Person in charge: Koji Horide    Portable: 090-2237-4306

 

The photo shown above is available at the following URL:

http://www.honda.co.jp/PR/

 

2


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Ref. #C03-014

 

Honda and Teledyne to Study Business Opportunities

For Honda’s Next-generation Piston Aviation Engine

 

Tokyo—March 4, 2003—Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced today that Honda and Teledyne Continental Motors, Inc.(TCM) will begin a joint market feasibility study for a next-generation piston aviation engine currently in development by Honda. Over the next several months, the joint study will evaluate potential business opportunities for both parties to work together toward marketing, servicing and manufacturing, and identifying potential product launch customers for such engines for the general aviation market.

 

The announcement follows approximately two years of cooperation between the two companies on the testing of a prototype Honda designed piston aviation engine at the Mobile, Alabama facility of TCM. Honda’s piston aviation engine technologies derive from its research and development of motorcycles and automobiles. With support in the development process based on TCM’s aviation expertise and know-how, Honda has developed a prototype piston aviation engine that has achieved the technical potential for being significantly advanced over currently available engines in terms of weight, fuel efficiency, power output and emissions. Honda, TCM and Teledyne Technologies Incorporated(NYSE:TDY), the parent company of TCM, have agreed to conduct a joint feasibility study as the next step in their relationship.

 

The general aviation power plants include piston, turbo-prop, and turbo-fan engines. In addition to turbo-fan engines Honda has been researching since 1986, Honda has also been researching and developing more cost effective piston aviation engines since 2000.

 

Honda is one of the world’s leading producers of mobility products including automobiles, motorcycles and power products. This diverse product line-up has made Honda the world’s preeminent engine-maker, with production of more than 15 million engines globally in 2002.

 

Teledyne Technologies is a leading provider of sophisticated electronics components, instruments and communication products, systems engineering solutions, and aerospace engines and components and on-site gas and power generation systems.

 

Teledyne Continental Motors, Inc., is a leading provider of new, re-manufactured, and overhauled piston aircraft engines, ignition systems, spare parts and aviation batteries for the General Aviation industry.

 

For more information, contact:

Noriko Okamoto, Honda Motor Co.,Ltd.(Japan): 3-5412-1512

Tatsuya David Iida, Honda Motor Co.,Ltd.(Japan) : 3-5412-1512

Jeffrey Smith, American Honda Motor Co.,Inc.(U.S.): 310-781-5062

 


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LOGO

ref. #M03-015

 

Honda Releases the New Solo—

A 50cc Leisure Bike with Innovative Styling

 

March 5, 2003—Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the release of the new Solo, a cheery, stylish, around-town leisure bike with an air-cooled, 4-stroke 50cc engine. The Solo goes on sale Friday, March 14.

 

The Solo is the fourth model in the “N Project”* series, designed to deliver to its owners the pleasure of owning and riding a bike that serves as a fashion accessory in addition to providing convenient daily transportation.

 

The exterior features a simple design that emphasizes the rider’s individuality. The air-cooled 4-stroke 50cc engine, adapted from the Super Cub series, offers superb fuel economy and environmental performance. It is fitted with an auto centrifugal clutch that even novice riders can operate with ease.

 

In addition to the three standard colors, Matt Flat Silver Metallic, Monza Red, and Parrot Yellow, the Solo is also available in a total of 285 color combinations through the Color Order Plan, by mixing and matching tanks, frames, and seats.

 

*   “N Project” stands for “New Project”, which is dedicated to developing products that will appeal to young people’s lifestyles. The first model, the Ape, debuted in February 2001; the second model, the Zoomer, in June 2001; and the third model, the Bite, in January 2002.

 

 

LOGO

Solo

 

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Table of Contents

·    Annual domestic sales target (Solo):                                         4,500 units

 

·    Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (consumption tax not included):

 

Solo, Standard

 

¥199,000

Solo, Color Order Plan Style 1

 

¥214,000

Solo, Color Order Plan Style 2

 

¥219,000

 

(Example of regionally adjusted manufacturer’s suggested retail price: Okinawa +5,000 yen. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is for reference only. Similar adjustments may be made in other regions.)

 

Publicity photographs and materials for the Solo are available at the following URL:

http:// www.honda.co.jp/PR/

(The site is intended exclusively for the use of journalists.)

 

Main   Features of the Solo

 

·    Styling that emphasizes the rider’s individuality

The newly designed backbone frame is fitted with a slender tank and complimented by a single suspension and large saddle seat. A long wheelbase of 1,285mm and slim, large-diameter 18-inch wheels bring the package together in a neat, individualized style, giving the bike a distinctive silhouette. The under-seat area is equipped with a U-lock holder and pre-wiring for an alarm kit (manufactured by Honda Access; sold separately). This anti-theft system sounds an alarm if the scooter is shaken or moved.

 

·    The air-cooled 4-stroke engine offers superb durability and environmental performance

The Solo’s air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine—the same one used in the Super Cub and other bikes—has already earned a solid reputation for high fuel economy, low emissions, durability, and quiet operation. The auto centrifugal clutch and 3-speed rotary transmission are easy to operate even for novice riders.

 

·    Color Order Plan offers 285 combinations in all

(285 combinations including Style 1 and Style 2; not including the three standard colors)

 

STYLE 1

 

LOGO

 

LOGO

     

 

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LOGO

 

LOGO

* Lamp cover and fender color

   combinations are offered as a set.

 

* Seat and grip color

   combinations are offered as a set.

 

STYLE 2

 

 

STYLE 1                             +

 

LOGO

 

*   STYLE 2 features a chrome plated and buffed surface finish on the handlebars and engine crankcase covers.

 

*   How the Solo got its name:

 

The Solo’s name is intended to capture two different meanings of the English word:  (noun) a singing or musical performance by an individual; or (adverb) individually; to perform individually. The Solo’s name is intended to convey the image of a bike the owner chose himself or herself to present his or her own individual performance; a bike with a unique design.

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

Specifications

 

Vehicle Name

     

Solo

Vehicle Type

     

Honda BA-AC 17

Length x Width x Height

 

(m)

 

1.995x0.710x0.980

Wheelbase

 

(m)

 

1.285

Ground Clearance

 

(m)

 

0.150

Seat Height

 

(m)

 

0.730

Vehicle Weight

 

(kg)

 

77

Dry Weight

 

(kg)

 

73

Number of Riders

     

1

Min. Turning Radius

 

(m)

 

2.0

Engine Type

     

AC17E (air-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder)

Displacement

 

(cm3)

 

49

Compression Ratio

     

10.0:1

Max. Power

 

(kW[PS]/rpm)

 

2.6[3.5]/7,500

Max. Torque

 

(NŸm[kgŸm]/rpm)

 

3.8[0.39]/6,000

Fuel Tank Capacity

 

(l)

 

4.1

Fuel Consumption

 

(km/l)

 

95.0 (30km/h, low-altitude driving)

Starter

     

Kick-start

Ignition

     

CDI-type magneto

Transmission

     

Continuous mesh, 3-speed return

Gear Ratio

 

1st gear

 

3.272

   

2nd gear

 

1.764

   

3rd gear

 

1.190

Differential

 

Primary

 

4.058

   

Secondary

 

3.230

Tire Size

 

Front

 

70/100-18M/C41P

   

Rear

 

70/100-18M/C41P

Braking System

 

Front

 

Mechanical, leading/trailing drum

   

Rear

 

Mechanical, leading/trailing drum

Suspension

 

Front

 

Telescopic

   

Rear

 

Swing arm

Frame

     

Backbone

 


Table of Contents

 

LOGO

ref. #M03-019

 

Honda Releases ABS-equipped Versions of the

Silverwing 600 and 400 Large-Displacement Scooters

 

March 24, 2003—Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced that, in addition to the standard versions of its luxurious, elegantly styled Silverwing 600 and 400 large-displacement scooters, it will also offer versions equipped with Combined ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) brakes, for increased stability and more effective control while braking. The two new types, the Silverwing 600 ABS and the Silverwing 400 ABS, will go on sale Tuesday, March 25th.

 

The Silverwing 600 and 400, equipped with water-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 2-cylinder 600cc and 400cc engines respectively, combine high driving performance with a relaxed riding position and ample storage space, making them the model of choice for a wide range of riders young and old.

 

To compliment the addition of ABS, the Silverwing 400 has also been given a change of coloring for the front and rear wheels and the front forks, along with an attractive price.

 

 

LOGO

Silverwing 600 ABS

 

·    Annual domestic sales target (series total):                                         3,000 units

·    Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (consumption tax not included):

 

Silverwing 600 ABS

  

¥

799,000

Silverwing 400 ABS

  

¥

699,000

Silverwing 600

  

¥

749,000

Silverwing 400         

  

¥

649,000

 

(Example of regionally adjusted manufacturer’s suggested retail price: Okinawa +10,000 yen for the Silverwing 600 ABS and the Silverwing 600; +9,000 yen for the Silverwing 400 ABS and the Silverwing 400. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is for reference only. Similar adjustments may be made in other regions.)

 

Publicity photographs and materials for the Silverwing 600 and 400 and the Silverwing 600 ABS and 400 ABS are available at the following URL:

http:// www.honda.co.jp/PR/

(The site is intended exclusively for the use of journalists.)

 

-1-

 


Table of Contents

 

·    Special Features

 

Leading-edge ABS technology employed for increased stability and more effective control while braking

The Silverwing 600 and 400 are the only bikes in their class to come equipped with a Hydraulic Combined Brake System. This popular feature appropriately distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels, resulting in balanced, stable application of braking force. In addition to the Hydraulic Combined Brake System, the ABS-equipped models also employ ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to prevent wheel lock-up when the brakes are over-applied, further enhancing braking stability. Honda already offers the FORZA S lightweight scooter with ABS, but the Silverwing is the first scooter in its class* (scooters requiring a large-displacement motorcycle license) to come so equipped. The ABS models come with a newly developed ABS modulator (hydraulic regulator) that is around 20% lighter than the one used in the FORZA S. The diameter of the front brake disc has also been increased from 256mm to 276mm, for increased braking stability.

 

*According to Honda survey

 

·    Improved high-speed handling and greater ease of use

In both the standard and the ABS-equipped models, the rubber bushings on the engine mounts have been redesigned for improved handling during high-speed driving. Left and right pocket lids have also been added, further enhancing the Silverwing’s reputation for ease of use earned through its relaxed riding position, ample storage space, and other convenient features. The sturdy, formed lids add a quality feel, and are designed to be easy to open and close. The lamp in the under-seat trunk space has also been equipped with a manual on/off switch.

 

·    ABS-equipped models come in a two-tone color scheme

The ABS-equipped models come in two different two-tone color schemes, while the standard models offer a choice of two monotone colors each for the 600cc and 400cc versions.

 

Silverwing 600 and 400 ABS:

1.   Two-tone color scheme composed of vivid Pearl Milky White and subdued Sparkling Silver Metallic.
2.   Two-tone color scheme composed of intrepid Pure Black and subdued Moonstone Silver Metallic.

 

Silverwing 600:

1.   Vivid Pearl Milky White monotone coloring.
2.   Subdued Force Silver Metallic monotone coloring.

 

Silverwing 400:

1.   Intrepid Pure Black monotone coloring.
2.   Subdued Force Silver Metallic monotone coloring.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Specifications—Silverwing 600 and 600 ABS

 

Model Name

     

Silverwing 600

 

Silverwing 600 ABS

Model Type

     

Honda BC—PF01

L x W x H

 

(m)

 

2.275 x 0.770 x 1.430

Wheelbase

 

(m)

 

1.595

Ground Clearance

 

(m)

 

0.140

Seat Height

 

(m)

 

0.740

Vehicle Weight

 

(kg)

 

236

 

243

Dry Weight

 

(kg)

 

215

 

222

Number of Riders

 

2

Fuel Consumption

 

(km/l)

 

25.0

(60km/h constant speed, low altitude)

Turning Radius

 

(m)

 

2.8

Engine Type

 

PF01E (water-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC 2-cylinder)

Displacement

 

(cm3)

 

582

Bore x Stroke

 

(mm)

 

72.0 x 71.5

Compression Ratio

 

10.2

Maximum Power

 

(kW[PS]/rpm)

 

36[49]/7,000

Maximum Torque

 

(NŸm[kgŸm]/rpm)

 

53[5.4]/5,500

Starter

 

Self-starting

Fuel Supply

 

PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)

Ignition

 

Fully-transistorized battery ignition

Fuel Tank Capacity

 

(l)

 

16

Lubrication

 

Force feed and splash

Clutch

 

Dry-type, multi-plate shoe

Gearbox

 

Continuously variable (V-Matic)

Gear Ratio

 

1 gear

 

2.100~0.850

Caster Angle (degrees)/Trail (mm)

 

28° 30´ /105

Tire Size

 

Front

 

120/80-14M/C 58S

   

Rear

 

150/70-13M/C 64S

Braking System

 

Front

 

Hydraulic disc

   

Rear

 

Hydraulic disc

Suspension

 

Front

 

Telescopic

   

Rear

 

Swing arm

Frame

 

Backbone

 


Table of Contents

 

Specifications—Silverwing400 and 400 ABS

 

Model Name

     

Silverwing 400

 

Silverwing 400 ABS

Model Type

     

Honda BC—NF01

L x W x H

 

(m)

 

2.275 x 0.770 x 1.430

Wheelbase

 

(m)

 

1.595

Ground Clearance

 

(m)

 

0.140

Seat Height

 

(m)

 

0.740

Vehicle Weight

 

(kg)

 

236

 

243

Dry Weight

 

(kg)

 

215

 

222

Number of Riders

 

2

Fuel Consumption

 

(km/l)

 

30.0

(60km/h constant speed, low altitude)

Turning Radius

 

(m)

 

2.8

Engine Type

 

NF01E (water-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC 2-cylinder)

Displacement

 

(cm3)

 

398

Bore x Stroke

 

(mm)

 

64.0 x 62.0

Compression Ratio

 

10.8

Maximum Power

 

(kW[PS]/rpm)

 

28[38]/7,500

Maximum Torque

 

(NŸm[kgŸm]/rpm)

 

39[4.0]/6,000

Starter

 

Self-starting

Fuel Supply

 

PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)

Ignition

 

Fully-transistorized battery ignition

Fuel Tank Capacity

 

(l)

 

16

Lubrication

 

Force feed and splash

Clutch

 

Dry-type, multi-plate shoe

Gearbox

 

Continuously variable (V-Matic)

Gear Ratio

 

1 gear

 

2.450~0.900

Caster Angle (degrees)/Trail (mm)

 

28° 30´ /105

Tire Size

 

Front

 

120/80-14M/C 58S

   

Rear

 

150/70-13M/C 64S

Braking System

 

Front

 

Hydraulic disc

   

Rear

 

Hydraulic disc

Suspension

 

Front

 

Telescopic

   

Rear

 

Swing arm

Frame

 

Backbone

 


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LOGO

 

Ref: C03-018

 

Honda to Begin Automobile Sales in Korea

 

Seoul, March 25, 2003—Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced plans to begin automobile sales in the Republic of Korea by early 2004. Honda Motorcycle Korea Co., Ltd., the existing local motorcycle sales subsidiary, has been renamed Honda Korea Co., Ltd. and will take on the responsibility to import and sell automobiles through a new network of dealers. First year unit sales are forecast at approximately 2,000 units, with Honda Korea Co.’s capital investment increasing by 9 billion won to a cumulative total of 12 billion won.

 

The Korean automobile market has made a steady recovery since suffering from the Asian currency crisis of 1997. The Korean auto market, the third largest in Asia behind Japan and China, recorded annual sales of 1.64 million units in 2002. The market has grown rapidly over the past several years, especially regarding sales of import automobiles due to policy changes including a tariff reduction from 20% to 8% in 1995 and the end of an embargo on Japanese auto imports in 1999. As a result, automobile imports have nearly doubled in each of the last few years, with 2002 industry sales figures showing import auto sales of approximately 16,000 units. Honda will enter the Korean import automobile market with an emphasis on both high quality products and customer service.

 

[Outline of Honda Korea Co., Ltd.]

 

Established:

  

October 2001 (Former company name: Honda Motorcycle Korea Co., Ltd.)

Capital:

  

3 billion won (Approx. 300 million yen) (Planned to increase to 12 billion won in April 2003)

Representative:

  

President, Woo Young Chung

Location:

  

Seoul Metropolitan City

Number of employees:

  

19 (Planned to increase to 32 by early 2004)

Business activities:

  

Import, sales and after-sales service, of motorcycles and automobiles.


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LOGO

 

(NOTE: This release is embargoed until 11:30 a.m., March 26)

 

Ref.#03019

 

Honda Global Production Up 7.7% in February

 

March 26, 2003—Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced today that global production increased 7.7% in February over the same month in 2002.

 

Although Japan production was down 13% mostly due to fewer production days,overseas production grew 29.1% over February, 2002. It was the 26th consecutive month of growth.

 

Domestic sales were down 21.4% in February. The Fit again was the best-seller for Honda, totaling 19,055 units. Honda’s Life mini-vehicle (11,374 units) and Accord (3,075 units) were Honda’s other best-sellers for the month.

 

Overall, mini vehicle sales were down 28.7% in February, while passenger car and light truck sales were off 17.6%.

 

Export shipments from Japan in February were up 11.2%, mainly because of increased shipments to Europe.

 

Due to increased local procurement of parts, there is currently no CKD production.

 

Honda Production, Sales And Exports—February 2003

 

PRODUCTION

 

      

Feb. Units vs. 2/02


    

2003 Cumulative Total vs. 2002


Domestic (CBU+CKD)

    

103,209

 

 -13.0%

    

211,227

 

   -3.1%

Overseas (CBU only)

    

147,553

 

+29.1%

    

303,808

 

+25.1%

Worldwide Total (*)

    

250,762

 

  +7.7%

    

515,035

 

+11.7%

(*)-except overseas CKD

 

REGIONAL PRODUCTION

 

      

Feb. Units vs. 2/02


    

2003 Cumulative Total vs. 2002


North America

    

106,651

 

  +20.0%

    

220,994

 

+18.7%

(USA only

    

72,880

 

  +25.5%

    

150,936

 

+23.6%)

Europe

    

17,095

 

  +31.7%

    

35,914

 

+32.4%

Asia

    

19,843

 

+105.6%

    

38,685

 

+63.9%

Others

    

3,964

 

  +41.1%

    

8,215

 

+35.1%

Regional Total

    

147,553

 

  +29.1%

    

303,808

 

+25.1%

 

-1-


Table of Contents

 

SALES

 

Vehicle type


    

Feb. Units vs. 2/02


    

2003 Cumulative Total vs. 2002


Passenger cars & light trucks

    

43,137

 

 -17.6%

    

77,224

 

 -13.4%

(Imports

    

1,308

 

+50.2%

    

2,617

 

+76.8%)

Mini vehicles

    

19,454

 

 -28.7%

    

31,901

 

 -24.0%

TOTAL

    

62,591

 

 -21.4%

    

109,125

 

 -16.8%

 

EXPORTS

 

      

Feb. Units vs. 2/02


    

2003 Cumulative Total vs. 2002


North America

    

21,470

 

   -11.1%

    

40,879

 

   -13.4%

(USA only

    

19,097

 

   -11.4%

    

37,064

 

   -13.9%)

Europe

    

12,239

 

+122.0%

    

25,810

 

+112.6%

Asia

    

2,066

 

    +8.3%

    

3,707

 

     -0.4%

Others

    

4,075

 

     -4.4%

    

10,684

 

  +24.3%

TOTAL

    

39,850

 

  +11.2%

    

81,080

 

  +13.1%

 

For further information, please contact:

 

Masaya Nagai

Tatsuya David Iida

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Corporate Communications Division

Telephone:    03-5412-1512

Facsimile:    03-5412-1545

 

-2-


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

M03-021

 

<Background:>

A.P. Honda Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Samutprakan Province. President: Ko Yamaguchi), a local subsidiary of Honda in Thailand, made the following announcement at 10 a.m. local time (12 noon Japan Standard Time) on March 27, 2003).

 

“Wave 125i” Equipped with Compact PGM-FI Introduced at Bangkok Motor Show

 

Bangkok, March 27, 2003—A.P. Honda Co., Ltd. announced today at the Bangkok Motor Show that the stylish Cub-type motorcycle Wave125, has been equipped with PGM-FI, an electronically controlled fuel injection system.

 

The new model, equipped with an air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder 125cc engine, offers a smooth start and a powerful riding feel coupled with good ride comfort delivering superior fuel efficiency in the wide range of riding conditions found in Thailand.

 

The Wave 125i also achieves very low emission levels, with less than half of the CO and HC+NOX levels specified by Thailand’s fifth emissions standards that will come into effect in July, 2004.

 

The Wave 125i will be manufactured by Thai Honda Manufacturing Co., Ltd., and will go on sale in July, 2003. This will be the first time for a bike equipped with this compact PGM-FI system to be manufactured in Thailand.

 

Previously, Honda introduced the Pantheon/Pantheon 150 scooter equipped with a water-cooled 125cc/150cc engine and PGM-FI, at Bologna, Italy in December, 2002. Sales of these scooter models started at the end of February 2003, beginning with the Italian market.

 

Following the introduction of an air-cooled engine model equipped with PGM-FI, Honda plans to introduce other such models in the rapidly expanding Asian markets, where air-cooled engine models are the choice of a majority of consumers.

 

LOGO

 

“Wave 125i” Equipped with Compact PGM-FI

 

Publicity photographs and materials are available at the following Website on and after March 27, 2003.

To download, please use Web browser software such as Internet Explorer, etc., and directly enter the following: http://www.honda.co.jp/PR/ (This Website is for media personnel only.)


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Ref: C03-020

 

Total Civic Series Production Reaches 15 Million Units

 

Tokyo, March 31, 2003—Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced that as of March 2003, worldwide cumulative production of its Civic series reached 15 million units.

 

Based on a new concept that defied the common norms at a time motorization was experiencing significant levels of expansion, the Civic has been one of Honda’s key models since it was released as a two-box front wheel-drive model in July 1972. Its superior driving performance, fuel economy, safety and environmental performance, together with its spacious interior, have contributed to its favorable reception in car markets around the world. The Civic is currently sold in approximately 160 countries.

 

The current Civic is the seventh generation and Honda has continued to introduce new advanced technologies into successive Civic models. Among these technologies were the low emission CVCC engine, the first engine to satisfy the requirements of the Original U.S. Clean Air act, the world’s most stringent exhaust emissions standards at the time; the V-TEC engine featuring variable valve timing and electronic lift control, which brought improved efficiency to the internal combustion engine; and the Honda Multi Matic S.

 

In June 1998, the Civic GX, Honda’s natural gas vehicle, was added to the Civic lineup, and in December 2001 the Civic Hybrid made its debut. The Civic series continues to be highly regarded, as illustrated by the many awards it has consistently won both in Japan and overseas.

 

Honda started production of the Civic at its Suzuka factory in June 1972 and gradually expanded production worldwide, beginning with Indonesia in 1975. At present, Honda produces approximately 600,000 Civics per year (based on 2002 figure) in a total of 11 countries including North and South America, Europe and Asia.

 

< Worldwide Civic production sites >

  

As of March 2003

Country


  

Site


  

Production model


Japan

  

Suzuka factory

  

Civic 5 door, 4 door, Civic Hybrid

U.S.

  

Honda of America Mfg., Inc.

(East Liberty Auto Plant)

  

Civic 4 door, 2 door, Civic GX

Canada

  

Honda Canada, Inc.

  

Civic 4 door

Brazil

  

Honda Automoveis do Brazil, Ltda.

  

Civic 4 door

U.K.

  

Honda of the U.K. Mfg., Ltd.

  

Civic 5 door, 3 door

Turkey

  

Honda Turkyie. A.S.

  

Civic 4 door

Thailand

  

Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

  

Civic 4 door

Malaysia

  

Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

  

Civic 4 door

Indonesia

  

P.T. Honda Prospect Motor

  

Civic 4 door

Philippines

  

Honda Cars Philippines Inc.

  

Civic 4 door

Pakistan

  

Honda Atlas Cars (Pakistan) Ltd.

  

Civic 4 door

 

*   Publicity materials and photographs of the Civic will be available at the following URL as of March 31, 2003:

http://www.honda.co.jp/PR/

(The site is intended exclusively for the use of journalists.)


Table of Contents

(ENGLISH TRANSLATION)

 

NOTICE OF RECORD DATE

 

It is hereby notified that pursuant to the provisions of Article 9 of the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, the shareholders appearing on the Shareholders’ register as of March 31, 2003 (the Record Date) shall be the shareholders entitled to exercise the rights of shareholders at the 79th Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders scheduled to be held in late June 2003.

 

March 13, 2003

 

HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.

No. 1-1, 2-chome,

Minami-Aoyama,

Minato-ku, Tokyo

 

Transfer agent and place of business:

The Chuo Mitsui Trust and Banking Co., Ltd.

33-1, Shiba 3-Chome, Minato-ku,  

Tokyo

 

Forwarding offices:

All branch offices of the Chuo Mitsui Trust and Banking Co., Ltd. and the principle and all branch and liaison offices of Nihon Shoken Daiko Kabushiki Kaisha.


Table of Contents

March 13, 2003

 

Notice of Record Date and Proposed Year End

Dividend for Period ending March 31, 2003

 

 

Dear Sirs or Mesdames,

 

 

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (the “Company”) intends to recommend, subject to resolution to be adopted by the Board of Directors’ meeting which is scheduled to be held during the month of April 2003, to the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders for the annual fiscal period ending March 31, 2003, which is scheduled to be held during the month of June 2003, the distribution of a year-end cash dividend at the rate of 16.0 Japanese yen per share of the Company’s Common Stock, the amount of the foregoing dividend per American Share will be 8.0 Japanese yen. Since at present the yen-dollar exchange rate is floating, the Company cannot predict any specific dollar amount, which would be obtained from the actual conversion of the yen amount of the dividend into U.S. dollar at the time of payment thereof.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.

/s/    Satoshi Aoki


Satoshi Aoki

Senior Managing and

Representative Director

 

 

18


Table of Contents

 

   

LOGO

    
   

Third Quarter Report

Period Ended December 31, 2002

  

3

 

LOGO


Table of Contents

 

Consolidated Financial Summary (Unaudited)

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries

For the three months and nine months ended December 31, 2001 and 2002

 

 

Financial Highlights


    

Millions of yen


  

Millions of U.S. dollars


    

Three months

  

Nine months

  

Three months 2002


  

Nine months 2002


    

2001


  

2002


  

2001


  

2002


     

Net sales and other operating revenue

  

¥

1,756,412

  

¥

1,989,239

  

¥

5,261,408

  

¥

5,842,850

  

$

16,591

  

$

48,731

Operating income

  

 

154,782

  

 

158,978

  

 

470,019

  

 

482,847

  

 

1,326

  

 

4,027

Income before income taxes

  

 

120,473

  

 

158,709

  

 

390,460

  

 

432,410

  

 

1,324

  

 

3,606

Net income

  

 

82,258

  

 

115,167

  

 

255,998

  

 

309,946

  

 

961

  

 

2,585

           
    

Yen


  

U.S. dollars


Basic net income per

                                         

Common share

  

¥

84.42

  

¥

118.63

  

¥

262.72

  

¥

318.59

  

$

0.99

  

$

2.66

American share

  

 

42.21

  

 

59.32

  

 

131.36

  

 

159.30

  

 

0.49

  

 

1.33

 

Explanatory note: The number of treasury stock has been excluded from the calculation for basic net income.

 

    

Thousands of units


 
    

Three months

    

Nine months

 

Unit Sales Breakdown


  

2001


    

2002


    

2001


    

2002


 

MOTORCYCLES

                                               

Japan

  

87

  

(87

)

  

94

  

(94

)

  

303

  

(303

)

  

309

  

(309

)

North America

  

146

  

(79

)

  

149

  

(85

)

  

400

  

(206

)

  

440

  

(223

)

Europe

  

57

  

(55

)

  

58

  

(57

)

  

219

  

(214

)

  

213

  

(207

)

Others

  

1,247

  

(1,245

)

  

1,844

  

(1,840

)

  

3,421

  

(3,414

)

  

5,050

  

(5,041

)

    
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

Total

  

1,537

  

(1,466

)

  

2,145

  

(2,076

)

  

4,343

  

(4,137

)

  

6,012

  

(5,780

)

    
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

* Numbers in parentheses represent unit sales of motorcycles.

                                               

AUTOMOBILES

                                               

Japan

  

210

         

202

         

631

         

628

      

North America

  

349

         

388

         

1,004

         

1,120

      

Europe

  

38

         

39

         

122

         

143

      

Others

  

55

         

73

         

183

         

217

      
    
         
         
         
      

Total

  

652

         

702

         

1,940

         

2,108

      
    
         
         
         
      
                                                 

POWER PRODUCTS

                                               

Japan

  

81

         

101

         

272

         

353

      

North America

  

243

         

260

         

979

         

1,160

      

Europe

  

232

         

274

         

607

         

698

      

Others

  

231

         

227

         

639

         

657

      
    
         
         
         
      

Total

  

787

         

862

         

2,497

         

2,868

      
    
         
         
         
      


Table of Contents

 

Net Sales Breakdown


    

Millions of yen


 
    

Three months

      

Nine months

 
    

2001


      

2002


      

2001


      

2002


 

MOTORCYCLE BUSINESS

                                                             

Japan

  

¥

23,113

  

(11.4

%)

    

¥

22,139

  

(10.2

%)

    

¥

76,963

  

(11.9

%)

    

¥

74,114

  

(10.4

%)

North America

  

 

72,207

  

(35.5

)

    

 

75,689

  

(34.8

)

    

 

222,591

  

(34.4

)

    

 

239,943

  

(33.5

)

Europe

  

 

30,265

  

(14.9

)

    

 

30,757

  

(14.2

)

    

 

111,925

  

(17.3

)

    

 

117,978

  

(16.5

)

Others

  

 

77,648

  

(38.2

)

    

 

88,649

  

(40.8

)

    

 

235,191

  

(36.4

)

    

 

283,033

  

(39.6

)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

Total

  

¥

203,233

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

217,234

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

646,670

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

715,068

  

(100.0

%)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

AUTOMOBILE BUSINESS

                                                             

Japan

  

¥

390,400

  

(27.3

%)

    

¥

377,651

  

(23.1

%)

    

¥

1,206,395

  

(28.3

%)

    

¥

1,135,792

  

(24.0

%)

North America

  

 

877,559

  

(61.4

)

    

 

1,026,329

  

(62.7

)

    

 

2,529,964

  

(59.3

)

    

 

2,888,339

  

(61.1

)

Europe

  

 

71,978

  

(5.0

)

    

 

83,018

  

(5.0

)

    

 

230,616

  

(5.4

)

    

 

287,283

  

(6.1

)

Others

  

 

88,479

  

(6.3

)

    

 

150,441

  

(9.2

)

    

 

300,948

  

(7.0

)

    

 

417,538

  

(8.8

)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

Total

  

¥

1,428,416

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

1,637,439

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

4,267,923

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

4,728,952

  

(100.0

%)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

OTHERS

                                                             

Japan

  

¥

26,988

  

(21.6

%)

    

¥

38,916

  

(28.9

%)

    

¥

83,983

  

(24.2

%)

    

¥

105,846

  

(26.5

%)

North America

  

 

65,361

  

(52.4

)

    

 

71,483

  

(53.1

)

    

 

193,862

  

(55.9

)

    

 

225,758

  

(56.6

)

Europe

  

 

10,739

  

(8.6

)

    

 

13,863

  

(10.3

)

    

 

32,288

  

(9.3

)

    

 

40,143

  

(10.1

)

Others

  

 

21,675

  

(17.4

)

    

 

10,304

  

(7.7

)

    

 

36,682

  

(10.6

)

    

 

27,083

  

(6.8

)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

Total

  

¥

124,763

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

134,566

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

346,815

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

398,830

  

(100.0

%)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

TOTAL

                                                             

Japan

  

¥

440,501

  

(25.1

%)

    

¥

438,706

  

(22.1

%)

    

¥

1,367,341

  

(26.0

%)

    

¥

1,315,752

  

(22.5

%)

North America

  

 

1,015,127

  

(57.8

)

    

 

1,173,501

  

(59.0

)

    

 

2,946,417

  

(56.0

)

    

 

3,354,040

  

(57.4

)

Europe

  

 

112,982

  

(6.4

)

    

 

127,638

  

(6.4

)

    

 

374,829

  

(7.1

)

    

 

445,404

  

(7.6

)

Others

  

 

187,802

  

(10.7

)

    

 

249,394

  

(12.5

%)

    

 

572,821

  

(10.9

)

    

 

727,654

  

(12.5

)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

Total

  

¥

1,756,412

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

1,989,239

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

5,261,408

  

(100.0

%)

    

¥

5,842,850

  

(100.0

%)

    

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

 

Explanatory notes:

 

1.   The geographical breakdown of net sales is based on the location of affiliated and unaffiliated customers.
2.   Net sales of OTHERS includes revenue from sales of power products and related parts, leisure businesses, trading and finance subsidiaries.


Table of Contents

 

To Our Shareholders

 

n Third Quarter Results

 

Honda’s consolidated net income for the fiscal third quarter ended December 31, 2002 totaled ¥115.1 billion ($961 million), an increase of 40.0% from the same period in 2001. Basic net income per common share for the quarter amounted to ¥118.63 ($0.99), compared to ¥84.42 for the same period in 2001. Two of Honda’s American Depositary Shares represent one common share.

 

Unit sales in all Honda’s business categories, namely motorcycles, automobiles and power products, increased for the fiscal third quarter, and consolidated net sales and other operating revenue (herein referred to as “revenue”) for the quarter amounted to ¥1,989.2 billion ($16,591 million), an increase of 13.3% over the corresponding period in 2001. Revenue included currency translation effects, which had a positive impact on foreign currency denominated revenue from Honda’s overseas subsidiaries translated into yen. Honda estimates that had the exchange rate of the yen remained unchanged from the same period in 2001, revenue for the quarter would have increased approximately 13.0%.

 

Consolidated operating income for the fiscal third quarter totaled ¥158.9 billion ($1,326 million), an increase of 2.7% compared to the same period in 2001. This increase in operating income was due primarily to higher revenue from every product category, Honda’s ongoing cost reduction efforts and the depreciation of the yen, which offset the negative impact from increases in selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses as well as research and development (R&D) expenses.

 

Consolidated income before income taxes for the quarter totaled ¥158.7 billion ($1,324 million), an increase of 31.7% from the same period in 2001.

 

With respect to Honda’s sales in the fiscal third quarter by business category, motorcycle unit sales increased 39.6%, to 2,145,000 units, and revenue increased 6.9%, to ¥217.2 billion ($1,812 million). These increases were due primarily to higher sales in Asian countries such as Thailand, China, Indonesia and India.

 

Honda’s unit sales of automobiles increased 7.7%, to 702,000 units, due primarily to strong sales of such light truck models as the Pilot, CR-V and Odyssey in North America. Revenue increased 14.6%, to ¥1,637.4 billion ($13,657 million), during the quarter.

 

Unit sales of power products totaled 862,000 units, an increase of 9.5% compared to the corresponding period in 2001. Favorable sales of Honda’s general-purpose engines in Europe and North America were the major factor behind this increase. Revenue from other businesses, including the power product business and financial services, increased 7.9%, to ¥134.5 billion ($1,122 million), due mainly to higher revenue from financial services, led by favorable automobile sales in North America.

 

n Nine-Month Results

 

Honda’s consolidated net income for the fiscal nine months ended December 31, 2002 totaled ¥309.9 billion ($2,585 million), an increase of 21.1% from the corresponding period of last year. Basic net income per common share for the fiscal nine months amounted to ¥318.59 ($2.66), compared to ¥262.72 for the corresponding period a year ago.

 

Unit sales of Honda’s motorcycles, automobiles and power products increased, and revenue for the fiscal nine months amounted to ¥5,842.8 billion ($48,731 million), an increase of 11.1% from the previous year. Revenue included the positive effect of currency translation. Honda estimates that had the exchange rate of the yen remained unchanged from the previous year, revenue for the period would have increased approximately 9.9%.

 

Consolidated operating income for the fiscal nine months totaled ¥482.8 billion ($4,027 million), an increase of 2.7% compared to the corresponding period last year. Higher revenue from every product category, a weaker yen and Honda’s ongoing cost reduction efforts were the major contributing factors for this increase in operating income.

 

Consolidated income before income taxes for the fiscal nine months totaled ¥432.4 billion ($3,606 million), an increase of 10.7% compared to the previous year.

 

With respect to Honda’s sales for the nine-month period by business category, motorcycle unit sales increased 38.4%, to 6,012,000 units, and revenue increased 10.6%, to ¥715.0 billion ($5,964 million). Strong gains primarily in Asian countries outside Japan were more than enough to offset decreased revenue from Japan.

 

Honda’s unit sales of automobiles increased 8.7%, to 2,108,000 units, and revenue increased 10.8%, to ¥4,728.9 billion ($39,441 million) for the nine-month period. Robust sales of such light truck models as the Pilot, CR-V and Odyssey in North America were the primary contributors to these increases.

 

Unit sales of power products totaled 2,868,000 units, an increase of 14.9% compared to the corresponding period of the previous year. Unit sales of general-purpose engines increased in North America, Europe and Japan. Revenue from other businesses, including the power product business and financial services, showed a 15.0% increase, amounting to ¥398.8 billion ($3,326 million).

 

March 2003

 

/s/    HIROYUKI YOSHINO

Hiroyuki Yoshino

President and Chief Executive Officer


Table of Contents

 

News Briefs

 

North America

 

n The City of Los Angeles Takes Delivery of First Fuel Cell Car

 

The City of Los Angeles took delivery of the nation’s first fuel cell car certified for commercial use, the Honda FCX. The FCX being leased by the City will be used in normal, everyday use and was delivered in a ceremony at City Hall, which included Mayor Jim Hahn and Hiroyuki Yoshino, President and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

 

The hydrogen-powered FCX is the only fuel cell vehicle certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for every-day commercial use. Under the two-year lease agreement, the City will pay $500 a month to lease the first of five FCX models, with the other four being delivered in 2003. In addition, Honda has contracted with Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, with local operations in El Segundo, California, to provide the hydrogen fuel and refueling infrastructure.

 

LOGO

 

Ceremony at Los Angeles City Hall

 

“This is a very exciting day for the City of Los Angeles as it takes a major, national leadership role in putting hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles into practical, everyday use,” Mayor Hahn said. “Los Angeles City employees will use these fuel cell vehicles on a day-to-day basis, just like any other pool vehicle. Hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles hold great promise for future clean air vehicles, and it is important that L.A. play a leading role in assisting in the development and early use of this technology. Working with Honda Motor Company, which has a long history of firsts in developing environmentally sound vehicles, adds to the great prospect for continued air quality improvements for the citizens of Los Angeles.”

 

Honda plans to lease approximately 30 fuel cell cars in California and Japan during the next two to three years. The Company currently has no plans, however, for mass-market sales of fuel cell vehicles or sales to individuals.

 

“The future of the fuel cell vehicle shows great promise in reducing the global dependence on oil, and our association with the great City of Los Angeles is an important step in the pursuit of this goal,” said Yoshino.

 

Both CARB and the EPA have certified the FCX as a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV). The FCX uses hydrogen supplied to a fuel cell “stack” to generate electricity that powers its electric motor.

 

With an output of up to 80 horsepower and 201 foot-pounds of torque, acceleration is similar to a Honda Civic. Water vapor is the only exhaust. The FCX has an EPA-certified range of 170 miles and seating for four people, making it practical for a wide range of real-world applications.

 

Honda began fuel cell research in 1989 and has been road testing vehicles in the United States since 1999. Honda has also been a member of the California Fuel Cell Partnership, based in Sacramento, California, since 1999.


Table of Contents

 

Japan

 

n Honda Announces a Full Model Change for the Accord and Accord Wagon

 

Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced the release of a new Accord and Accord Wagon, which will set a new benchmark for midsize automobiles. The new Accord is fitted with a high-performance DOHC i-VTEC engine and offers world class-level aerodynamic characteristics. Equipped with Honda Intelligent Driver Support System (HiDS*1) for lane maintenance and vehicle distance/speed control on free-ways, a Honda DVD navigation system with voice recognition*2, side curtain airbags*3 and more, the Accord went on sale October 11 and the Accord Wagon from November 28 at Honda Clio dealers throughout Japan.*4

 

The seventh-generation Accord and Accord Wagon inherit the principle of “harmony between people and society” embodied in the first Accord and is designed on the concept of a New Quality Tourer. The new Accord and Accord Wagon were developed to set a new benchmark in midsize sedans and wagons, providing luxurious interior detail, excellent safety and environmental performance, and to provide long hours of stress-free driving with a sporty flair in an atmosphere of complete safety and comfort.

 

LOGO

New Accord

 

LOGO

New Accord Wagon

 

*1 Manufacturer’s option on Accord 24T, 24TL, Accord Wagon 24T (FWD vehicle), 24T Exclusive Package (FWD vehicle)

*2 Manufacturer’s option on all types

*3 Manufacturer’s option on the Accord and Accord Wagon, except the Accord Euro-R and 24S equipped with front Recaro bucket seats(comes as set with i-Side airbag system and rear center headrest)

* 4 Accord Euro-R went on sale December 10, 2002; the Accord Wagon 24E with 4WD went on sale February 13, 2003.


Table of Contents

 

Other

 

n Honda Increases Automobile Production Capacity in China

 

Guangzhou Honda Automobile Co., Ltd., Honda’s automobile production and sales joint venture in China, will increase its production capacity to 240,000 units annually by spring 2004. Guangzhou Honda is currently in the process of increasing capacity from 50,000 to 120,000 units a year by February 2003. The latest capacity increase was determined necessary in response to the continuing expansion of the Chinese passenger car market.

 

The new expansion project includes additional investment of approximately 660 million yuan (¥10 billion) to expand the facilities, including the assembly plant building and additional sub-assembly lines. Guangzhou Honda expects plant employment to increase from 2,400 to 3,400 associates by spring 2004.

 

After the expansion is complete, the production line at Guangzhou Honda will incorporate Honda’s New Manufacturing System to become a mass production operation with a high level of efficiency and flexibility—equivalent to other Honda production bases in Japan, North America and Europe. The New Manufacturing System improvements include more flexible welding equipment, functional process zones on the main assembly line with quality assurance within each zone, a standardized main assembly line with sub-lines absorbing processes that fall outside common assembly parameters and an enhanced workplace environment.

 

Guangzhou Honda launched the all-new Accord in January 2003 and plans to launch the Fit Saloon (sold as the Fit Aria in Japan)—the third production model to go into production in summer 2003. The company will make full use of the increased production capacity to respond to the ever-diversifying needs of the Chinese market. Guangzhou Honda began building the Odyssey minivan in spring 2002.

 

The production and sales of Guangzhou Honda have been increasing at a faster pace than initially anticipated since production began in March 1999. Production results for 2002 are expected to reach 59,000 units, with cumulative production through the end of 2002 expected to exceed 152,000 units and production for 2003 forecast at 112,000 units.

 

In addition, Guangzhou Honda will increase the number of dealers from approximately 130 to 200 dealers by the end of 2003. It is the first sales and service dealer network in China to be developed by a manufacturer, integrating auto sales and service into one organization, including maintenance service, parts supply and communication with customers.


Table of Contents

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and Subsidiaries

December 31, 2001 and March 31 and December 31, 2002

 

    

Millions of yen


 
    

Dec. 31,

2001 (Unaudited)


    

Mar. 31,

2002

(Audited)


    

Dec. 31,

2002 (Unaudited)


 

Assets

                          

Current assets:

                          

Cash and cash equivalents

  

¥

448,003

 

  

¥

609,441

 

  

¥

498,078

 

Trade accounts and notes receivables

  

 

289,607

 

  

 

452,208

 

  

 

368,939

 

Finance subsidiaries—receivables, net

  

 

868,260

 

  

 

995,087

 

  

 

923,998

 

Inventories

  

 

715,496

 

  

 

644,282

 

  

 

703,389

 

Deferred income taxes

  

 

167,241

 

  

 

182,788

 

  

 

191,697

 

Other current assets

  

 

211,657

 

  

 

204,538

 

  

 

250,343

 

    


  


  


Total current assets

  

 

2,700,264

 

  

 

3,088,344

 

  

 

2,936,444

 

    


  


  


Finance subsidiaries—receivables, net

  

 

1,749,187

 

  

 

1,808,861

 

  

 

2,172,678

 

Investments and advances

  

 

376,115

 

  

 

395,495

 

  

 

395,342

 

Property, plant and equipment, at cost:

                          

Land

  

 

312,953

 

  

 

318,208

 

  

 

337,336

 

Buildings

  

 

891,866

 

  

 

920,106

 

  

 

912,892

 

Machinery and equipment

  

 

1,995,036

 

  

 

2,048,244

 

  

 

2,024,448

 

Construction in progress

  

 

109,906

 

  

 

82,610

 

  

 

103,621

 

    


  


  


    

 

3,309,761

 

  

 

3,369,168

 

  

 

3,378,297

 

Less accumulated depreciation

  

 

1,965,540

 

  

 

1,979,455

 

  

 

1,995,614

 

    


  


  


Net property, plant and equipment

  

 

1,344,221

 

  

 

1,389,713

 

  

 

1,382,683

 

    


  


  


Other assets

  

 

177,437

 

  

 

258,382

 

  

 

244,869

 

    


  


  


Total assets

  

¥

6,347,224

 

  

¥

6,940,795

 

  

¥

7,132,016

 

    


  


  


Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

                          

Current liabilities:

                          

Short-term debt

  

¥

1,037,448

 

  

¥

1,035,069

 

  

¥

1,007,693

 

Current portion of long-term debt

  

 

382,733

 

  

 

308,014

 

  

 

187,921

 

Trade payables

  

 

685,658

 

  

 

840,957

 

  

 

754,608

 

Accrued expenses

  

 

593,391

 

  

 

678,118

 

  

 

666,898

 

Income taxes payable

  

 

47,129

 

  

 

61,244

 

  

 

37,939

 

Other current liabilities

  

 

188,001

 

  

 

186,657

 

  

 

245,521

 

    


  


  


Total current liabilities

  

 

2,934,360

 

  

 

3,110,059

 

  

 

2,900,580

 

    


  


  


Long-term debt

  

 

559,075

 

  

 

716,614

 

  

 

1,035,412

 

Other liabilities

  

 

336,661

 

  

 

540,181

 

  

 

568,319

 

    


  


  


Total liabilities

  

¥

3,830,096

 

  

¥

4,366,854

 

  

¥

4,504,311

 

    


  


  


Stockholders’ equity:

                          

Common stock

  

 

86,067

 

  

 

86,067

 

  

 

86,067

 

Capital surplus

  

 

172,529

 

  

 

172,529

 

  

 

172,529

 

Legal reserves

  

 

28,969

 

  

 

28,969

 

  

 

29,391

 

Retained earnings

  

 

2,658,891

 

  

 

2,765,600

 

  

 

3,044,948

 

Adjustments from foreign currency translation

  

 

(348,393

)

  

 

(300,081

)

  

 

(499,327

)

Net unrealized gains on marketable equity securities

  

 

747

 

  

 

8,730

 

  

 

6,515

 

Minimum pension liabilities adjustments

  

 

(81,682

)

  

 

(187,824

)

  

 

(187,824

)

    


  


  


Accumulated other comprehensive loss

  

 

(429,328

)

  

 

(479,175

)

  

 

(680,636

)

    


  


  


Treasury stock

  

 

 

  

 

(49

)

  

 

(24,594

)

    


  


  


Total stockholders’ equity

  

¥

2,517,128

 

  

¥

2,573,941

 

  

¥

2,627,705

 

    


  


  


Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

  

¥

6,347,224

 

  

¥

6,940,795

 

  

¥

7,132,016

 

    


  


  


 


Table of Contents

 

Consolidated Statements of Income and Retained Earnings (Unaudited)

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries

For the three months and nine months ended December 31, 2001 and 2002

 

    

Millions of yen


 
    

Three months
ended Dec. 31,


    

Three months
ended Dec. 31,


    

Nine months

ended Dec. 31,


    

Nine months

ended Dec. 31,


 
    

2001


    

2002


    

2001


    

2002


 

Net sales and other operating revenue

  

¥

1,756,412

 

  

¥

1,989,239

 

  

¥

5,261,408

 

  

¥

5,842,850

 

Operating costs and expenses:

                                   

Cost of sales

  

 

1,178,913

 

  

 

1,374,953

 

  

 

3,584,450

 

  

 

3,989,817

 

Selling, general and administrative

  

 

318,047

 

  

 

348,850

 

  

 

919,515

 

  

 

1,050,705

 

Research and development

  

 

104,670

 

  

 

106,458

 

  

 

287,424

 

  

 

319,481

 

    


  


  


  


Operating income

  

 

154,782

 

  

 

158,978

 

  

 

470,019

 

  

 

482,847

 

Other income:

                                   

Interest

  

 

1,538

 

  

 

1,631

 

  

 

5,594

 

  

 

5,724

 

Other

  

 

4,740

 

  

 

5,748

 

  

 

1,531

 

  

 

10,513

 

Other expenses:

                                   

Interest

  

 

4,151

 

  

 

3,271

 

  

 

12,916

 

  

 

9,648

 

Other

  

 

36,436

 

  

 

4,377

 

  

 

73,768

 

  

 

57,026

 

    


  


  


  


Income before income taxes

  

 

120,473

 

  

 

158,709

 

  

 

390,460

 

  

 

432,410

 

Income taxes

  

 

49,815

 

  

 

58,928

 

  

 

163,141

 

  

 

166,112

 

    


  


  


  


Income before equity in income of affiliates

  

 

70,658

 

  

 

99,781

 

  

 

227,319

 

  

 

266,298

 

Equity in income of affiliates

  

 

11,600

 

  

 

15,386

 

  

 

28,679

 

  

 

43,648

 

    


  


  


  


Net income

  

 

82,258

 

  

 

115,167

 

  

 

255,998

 

  

 

309,946

 

Retained earnings:

                                   

Balance at beginning of period

  

 

2,589,892

 

  

 

2,945,720

 

  

 

2,428,293

 

  

 

2,765,600

 

Cash dividends paid

  

 

(12,667

)

  

 

(15,560

)

  

 

(24,360

)

  

 

(30,176

)

Transfer to legal reserves

  

 

(592

)

  

 

(379

)

  

 

(1,040

)

  

 

(422

)

    


  


  


  


Balance at end of period

  

¥

2,658,891

 

  

¥

3,044,948

 

  

¥

2,658,891

 

  

¥

3,044,948

 

    


  


  


  


Depreciation

  

¥

50,262

 

  

¥

57,531

 

  

¥

140,120

 

  

¥

159,636

 

Capital expenditures

  

 

63,970

 

  

 

74,006

 

  

 

197,062

 

  

 

207,296

 

    

Yen


 

Basic net income per:

                                   

Common share

  

 

¥84.42

 

  

 

¥118.63

 

  

 

¥262.72

 

  

 

¥318.59

 

American share

  

 

42.21

 

  

 

59.32

 

  

 

131.36

 

  

 

159.30

 

 

Explanatory note: The number of treasury stock has been excluded from the calculation for basic net income.

 


Table of Contents

 

Segment Information (Unaudited)

 

Business Segment Information

For the nine months ended December 31, 2002

 

   

Millions of yen


   

Motorcycle Business


 

Automobile Business


 

Financial Services


  

Other Businesses


 

Total


  

Corporate Assets and Eliminations


    

Consolidated


Net sales and other operating revenue:

                                              

Sales to unaffiliated customers

 

¥

715,068

 

¥

4,728,952

 

¥

177,548

  

¥

221,282

 

¥

5,842,850

  

¥

 

  

¥

5,842,850

Intersegment sales

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

2,355

  

 

9,033

 

 

11,388

  

 

(11,388

)

  

 

   

 

 

  

 

  


  

Total

 

¥

715,068

 

¥

4,728,952

 

¥

179,903

  

¥

230,315

 

¥

5,854,238

  

¥

(11,388

)

  

¥

5,842,850

Cost of sales, SG&A and R&D expenses

 

 

677,095

 

 

4,338,553

 

 

131,168

  

 

224,575

 

 

5,371,391

  

 

(11,388

)

  

 

5,360,003

   

 

 

  

 

  


  

Operating income

 

¥

37,973

 

¥

390,399

 

¥

48,735

  

¥

5,740

 

¥

482,847

  

¥

0

 

  

¥

482,847

   

 

 

  

 

  


  

 

Explanatory notes:

1.   Segmentation of Business  
  Business segment is based on Honda’s business organization and the similarity of the principal products included within each segment as well as the relevant markets for such products.
2.   Principal products of each segment:

 

Business


  

Sales


  

Principal Products


Motorcycle

  

Motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles(ATVs), personal watercraft and relevant parts

  

Large-size motorcycles, mid-size motorcycles, motorized bicycles, ATVs, personal watercraft

Automobile

  

Automobiles and relevant parts

  

Compact cars, sub-compact cars, mini-vehicles

Finance Services

  

Financial and insurance services

    

Other

  

Power products and relevant parts, and others

  

Power tillers, generators, general-purpose engines, lawn mowers, outboard engines

 

Geographical Segment Information

For the nine months ended December 31, 2002

 

   

Millions of yen


   

Japan


 

North America


 

Europe


 

Others


 

Total


 

Corporate Assets and Eliminations


   

Consolidated


Net sales and other operating revenue:

                                           

Sales to unaffiliated customers

 

¥

1,478,688

 

¥

3,363,838

 

¥

447,711

 

¥

552,613

 

¥

5,842,850

 

¥

 

 

¥

5,842,850

Transfers between geographical segments

 

 

1,447,759

 

 

95,550

 

 

110,754

 

 

20,140

 

 

1,674,203

 

 

(1,674,203

)

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 


 

Total

 

¥

2,926,447

 

¥

3,459,388

 

¥

558,465

 

¥

572,753

 

¥

7,517,053

 

¥

(1,674,203

)

 

¥

5,842,850

Cost of sales, SG&A and R&D expenses

 

 

2,773,052

 

 

3,183,518

 

 

554,747

 

 

521,583

 

 

7,032,900

 

 

(1,672,897

)

 

 

5,360,003

   

 

 

 

 

 


 

Operating income (loss)

 

¥

153,395

 

¥

275,870

 

¥

3,718

 

¥

51,170

 

¥

484,153

 

¥

(1,306

)

 

¥

482,847

   

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

Explanatory note: Geographical segmentation is based on the location where sales originated.

 

Overseas Sales

For the nine months ended December 31, 2002

 

    

Millions of yen


 
    

North America


    

Europe


    

Others


    

Total


 

Overseas sales

  

¥

3,354,040

 

  

¥

445,404

 

  

¥

727,654

 

  

¥

4,527,098

 

Consolidated sales

                             

¥

5,842,850

 

Overseas sales ratio to consolidated sales

  

 

57.4

%

  

 

7.6

%

  

 

12.5

%

  

 

77.5

%


Table of Contents

 

Explanatory Notes:

 

1.   The Company prepares its consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States since the Company has issued American Depositary Receipts listed on the New York Stock Exchange and files reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, except for all segment information which is prepared in accordance with a Ministerial Ordinance under the Securities and Exchange Law of Japan.

 

2.   The average exchange rates for the fiscal third quarter ended December 31, 2002 were ¥122.58=U.S.$1 and ¥122.55=€1. The average exchange rates for the corresponding period last year were ¥123.60 =U.S.$1 and ¥110.67=€ 1. The average exchange rates for the fiscal nine months ended December 31, 2002 were ¥122.95=U.S.$1 and ¥118.81=€1, as compared with ¥122.68=U.S.$1 and ¥108.73=€1 for the corresponding period last year.

 

3.   U.S. dollar amounts have been translated from yen solely for the convenience of the reader at the rate of ¥119.90=U.S.$1, the mean of the telegraphic transfer selling exchange rate and the telegraphic transfer buying exchange rate prevailing on the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on December 30, 2002.

 

4.   The Company’s common stock-to-ADR exchange rate has been changed from two shares of common stock to one ADR to one share of common stock to two ADRs, effective January 10, 2002.

 

5.   The Company has adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No.130, “Reporting Comprehensive Income.” The following table represents components of the Company’s comprehensive income. Other comprehensive income (loss) consists of changes in adjustments from foreign currency translation, net unrealized gains on marketable equity securities and minimum pension liabilities adjustment.

 

    

Millions of yen


 

For the three months ended Dec. 31


  

2001


  

2002


 

Net income

  

¥

82,258

  

¥

115,167

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  

 

107,998

  

 

(50,274

)

    

  


Comprehensive income

  

¥

190,256

  

¥

64,893

 

 

    

Millions of yen


 

For the nine months ended Dec. 31


  

2001


  

2002


 

Net income

  

¥

255,998

  

¥

309,946

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  

 

55,199

  

 

(201,461

)

    

  


Comprehensive income

  

¥

311,197

  

¥

108,485

 

 

6.   Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year’s consolidated financial statements to conform to the presentation used for the fiscal third quarter and the fiscal nine months ended December 31, 2002.


Table of Contents

 

Investor Information

 

Transfer Agent for Common Stock

The Chuo Mitsui Trust and Banking Co., Ltd.

33-1, Shiba 3-chome, Minato-ku,

Tokyo 105-8574, Japan

 

Depositary and Transfer Agent for American Depositary Receipts

JPMorgan Chase Bank

270 Park Avenue,

New York, NY 10017-2070, U.S.A.

 

Stock Exchange Listings in Japan

Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Sapporo and Fukuoka

 

Stock Exchange Listings Overseas

New York, London, Euronext Paris and Swiss stock exchanges

 

Total Shares of Common Stock Issued

974,414,215 (as of December 31, 2002)

 

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

1-1, 2-chome, Minami-Aoyama,

Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8556, Japan

Phone: (03) 3423-1111

URL: http://world.honda.com/

 

Honda North America, Inc.

New York Office

540 Madison Avenue, 32nd Floor,

New York, NY 10022, U.S.A.

Phone: (212) 355-9191

 

Honda Motor Europe Limited

470 London Road,

Slough, Berkshire SL3 8QY, U.K.

Phone: (01753) 590-590