Where Does the Name Honda Actually Come From?

Honda is well-known for producing highly dependable automobiles that are well-liked by many people. The origins of the Honda name and its history, on the other hand, may not be immediately evident to everyone who purchases a Honda vehicle. So, where does the name Honda actually come from? Read below to find out.

Brief History

Honda's history began in 1946 when Soichiro Honda took over a war-damaged plant and transformed it into the Honda Technical Research Institute. Honda started adapting two-stroke engines to operate on turpentine and attaching them to bikes made in a Hamamatsu plant. These motorbikes were such a success that he began producing his own bike motors.

Two years later, Soichiro incorporated his business to become Honda Motor Company, Ltd. In the 1960s, the firm became famous for its motorbikes (particularly the C100 Super Cub, which became the world's best-selling vehicle). In the 1970s, it became famous for its cheap, fuel-efficient cars. Today, the company is renowned for its reliable, affordable, and fuel-efficient vehicles.

What's in a Name?

So, where does the name Honda actually come from? It seems evident that the company got its name from its founder, Soichiro Honda. However, there's a bit more to it than just that.

In Japanese, the word "Honda" means "original rice paddy." In Japan, it's popular for people to have surnames that allude to geographical elements. The choice to name the company Honda worked in Japanese because it was a recognizable and trustworthy name, and it succeeded overseas because it is simple and distinctive.

Carrying on the Legacy

Honda's humble origins as a company that makes motorbikes are still reflected today, as the company remains the largest producer of motorcycles worldwide. Furthermore, Honda's motto, "The Power of Dreams," is a nod to their first original product, the 1949 "Dream" D-type motorbike.

Honda has a proven track record of delivering some of the most dependable automobiles, making it a popular option among car buyers. American Modified offers top-of-the-line Honda aftermarket parts and accessories to offer aesthetic and performance improvements when you own one of their vehicles. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.