Japanese automaker Honda has made a significant stride in its electrification journey in China with the inauguration of its second electric vehicle (EV) plant. The plant, a joint venture between Honda and GAC Group known as GAC Honda, has officially commenced production at its new energy vehicle (NEV) facility in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.
Situated in the Guangzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone, this NEV plant marks Honda’s second such establishment in China, following the launch of the Dongfeng Honda NEV plant on October 11. Both plants have an impressive annual capacity of 120,000 vehicles, showcasing Honda’s commitment to ramping up its electric vehicle production capabilities in the country.
The GAC Honda NEV plant is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. The welding shop, for instance, boasts high-speed robots that automate 100 percent of the welding process, ensuring precision and speed in production. Additionally, the plant leverages Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) equipment for seamless automation of transportation within the facility.
One of the standout features of the plant is its emphasis on sustainable practices, including the deployment of 22 MW of photovoltaic power generation systems. This eco-friendly initiative is expected to generate approximately 22 million kWh of electricity annually, resulting in a significant reduction of carbon emissions by 13,000 tons per year.
Honda’s focus on electrification in China is aligned with its broader goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The automaker has ambitious plans to expand its pure electric lineup in the country, targeting 10 models by 2027, including the e:N series launched in 2022 and the new electric brand “Ye” series introduced in 2024. By 2035, Honda aims to transition all models sold in China to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), underscoring its commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
The inauguration of the GAC Honda NEV plant follows the successful launch of Dongfeng Honda’s NEV facility in Wuhan, which marked Honda’s first EV plant globally. The Wuhan plant, covering an area of approximately 630,000 square meters, is set to produce a range of EV models, including the Lingxi L and Ye S7. These models are part of Honda’s strategy to expand its electric vehicle portfolio and cater to the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions in China.
Despite facing a decline in sales in China, Honda remains steadfast in its electrification efforts, leveraging its NEV plants to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in the market. With a strong focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology, Honda is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility in China and beyond.
