Honda is celebrating 50 years of research and development (R&D) in the United States, honoring the efforts of Honda associates and engineers who continue to research, design and develop innovative products and technologies that have shaped mobility and advanced the American auto industry.
Honda operates some of the world’s most advanced R&D facilities in America, including 21 operations in California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio and South Carolina. A capital investment of over $1.45 billion, these operations are responsible for the creation of over 36 Honda and Acura cars and light trucks – including multiple North American Car and Truck of the Year winners – as well as 87 powersports and power equipment products and the HondaJet.
“Fifty years ago, Honda began an incredible legacy of innovation in America by taking the bold step of establishing a research function focused on creating unique products and experiences for our customers,” said Jane Nakagawa, vice president of the R&D Business Unit at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “On the shoulders of the Honda researchers, designers and engineers who came before us, we are committed to reigniting our position as an innovator and disruptor to create new value for the next generation of Honda customers in America.”
Honda opened its first R&D facility in Gardena, California in 1975 to conduct market research into the needs and desires of American customers. This was soon followed by a critical role in product styling, including the concept and initial styling for the Honda CRX, a legendary small car that debuted in 1984 with an industry-leading fuel economy rating of 50 miles per gallon.
Today, multiple R&D centers in the U.S. include the North American Automotive Development Center in Ohio, the Honda and Acura Design Studios in Southern California, along with test tracks in both states, the Honda Aircraft Company in North Carolina and advanced research operations in multiple locations. This enables Honda to conduct all facets of product development in the U.S., including market and technology research, product styling, engineering design, prototype fabrication and testing, collaboration with parts suppliers and support for mass production.
Among the contributions of Honda U.S. R&D operations is the development of leading-edge safety and driver-assistive technologies, including award-winning airbag design. Honda associates in America have led the engineering and design of Honda and Acura vehicles created to meet the needs of customers in North America. This includes rugged light truck products such as the Honda Passport, Pilot and Ridgeline. Acura products have included the MDX, TL/TLX, RDX and the second-generation NSX. Honda associates have also developed a series of side-by-side vehicles, including the Pioneer series and the Talon, among other powersports products.
Published February 2026