Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has recently inaugurated a cutting-edge engine assembly line at its Global Resource Factory located in Manesar, Gurugram (Haryana). This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to the assembly of completely knocked down (CKD) engines, with a specific focus on engines ranging from 110 cc to 300 cc. The new assembly line boasts a remarkable capacity, capable of manufacturing up to 600 engines per day, catering to the global market demand for Honda’s two-wheeler offerings.
Strategic Focus and Capabilities
- The newly inaugurated CKD engine assembly line marks a significant milestone for HMSI, underscoring its commitment to technological advancement within the industry.
- This initiative is poised to enhance Honda’s export capabilities, facilitating market expansion while maintaining stringent adherence to global quality standards.
Remarks from Honda Leadership
- Tsutsumu Otani, the Managing Director, President & CEO of Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India, expressed his satisfaction with the introduction of the new engine assembly line, emphasizing Honda’s dedication to driving technological progress in the sector.
Key Features of the CKD Engine Assembly Line
- The assembly line is characterized by a meticulous focus on quality assurance, leveraging advanced tools such as DC tools for critical torquing and a vision camera inspection system.
- Complete traceability of parts and processes is ensured, incorporating a dedicated exhaust collection line and an acoustic chamber for engine sound inspection.
- Automation systems like the flywheel assembly automation system for tightening and torquing, as well as an automatic piston parts verification system, are integrated to streamline operations and ensure error-free processes.
Honda’s Market Performance and Growth
- Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India have enjoyed substantial success in the Indian market, with the iconic Honda Activa contributing significantly to the company’s sales. The Activa alone accounts for 50% of HMSI’s sales to date.
- Over the years, Honda has established itself as a key player in the Indian two-wheeler market, having sold over 6 crore units since its inception in the country 23 years ago. Despite facing stiff competition, Honda remains the second-largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India, trailing only Hero MotoCorp.
- Notably, Honda witnessed a remarkable 95% year-on-year growth in exports in March 2024, albeit from a modest volume of 28,304 units. This surge in exports contributed to HMSI’s overall sales of 3,86,455 units in the same period, marking an impressive 82% year-on-year increase. In the fiscal year 2023-24, HMSI reported total sales of 48,93,522 units.
Manesar Facility: A Hub for Global Operations
- Honda’s Global Resources Factory in Manesar, established in 2001, has played a pivotal role in the company’s global operations. The facility, initially known for the production of the Honda Activa, has evolved into a crucial export hub for Honda, catering to 58 markets worldwide.
- The made-in-India Honda CB Shine stands out as Honda’s flagship motorcycle, enjoying robust demand globally and solidifying the company’s position as a leading player in the international two-wheeler market.
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India’s relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation, exemplified by the inauguration of the new CKD engine assembly line, reaffirms its commitment to delivering high-quality products and driving growth in the global two-wheeler industry.
