Honda’s new 100,000 square metre factory is about more than just selling motorcycles

Earlier this year Honda officially opened its new 100,000 square metre production facility in Turkey, which is eventually expected to see 200,000 units roll off the production line every year, while it also strengthens the Japanese brand’s global presence. 

However, in a recent interview as part of the company’s ‘Honda Stories’ series, Honda Motor Europe President, Hans De Jaeger, revealed other reasons as to why the Japanese manufacturer was keen to build this particular facility in Aliağa, Izmir.

The new plant is Honda’s 38th motorcycle factory globally, with its doors opening back in May. The idea behind creating the new facility is to, first and foremost, expand its production line in the Turkish region, which has already served as a successful market for Honda over the last decade especially, as well as generating economic value across the region.

The continued demand for two-wheel products in Turkey represents a chance for Honda to further cement itself as the leading motorcycle manufacturer in the region, after the brand topped the country’s motorcycle sales charts for the 11th straight year in 2025. That being said, De Jaeger believes the new plant can also be responsible for building a strong two-wheel-driven culture.

When asked why Turkey has become an important country strategically for Honda, De Jaeger said: 

“We’ve seen the motorcycle market in Turkiye continue to grow in recent years, with many younger customers getting on a bike for the first time. That growing demand is not only a strong business opportunity for Honda, but also a chance to further develop a strong motorcycle culture in Turkiye.”

He also admitted that the new facility will be a chance for the company to further innovate when it comes to future products, which ties into Honda’s Triple Action to Zero plans of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050.

De Jaeger added: 

“This investment underlines our long-term commitment to the European region, and to Turkiye in particular. We see real opportunities here and want to keep growing our business in a sustainable way. By continuing to invest in local production, innovation and partnerships, we can create lasting value for our customers, our partners and wider society.

“Like all our facilities, this new factory has been developed with a strong focus on environmental and social responsibility, in line with Honda global standards. As part of our Triple Action to Zero commitment, which aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, the goal is to minimize environmental impact while maximizing positive contributions to the communities in which we operate.”

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