Honda Sets Up Motorcycle Research Bases In India, Vietnam

TOKYO August 4, 2003; Dow Jones reported that Honda Motor Co. Ltd. has set up motorcycle research bases in India and Vietnam to develop measures to meet growing demand in the local markets, a company spokesman said Monday.

Honda R&D (India) Private Ltd. will research popular colors among consumers in New Delhi, as well as what types of motorcycles are favored by local consumers.

The motorcycle market in India totaled 5 million units in 2002. Honda's sales accounted for 1.81 million units, up 37% on year.

Honda also set up a representative office in Hanoi to research marketing.

The Vietnamese motorcycle market was 1.8 million units in 2002, out of which Honda motorcycles accounted for 390,000 units.