跨国车企“渡劫”

Core Viewpoint - Honda's financial performance in the first quarter of FY2026 shows a significant decline in both operating profit and net profit, primarily due to U.S. tariffs on Japanese imports, alongside challenges in the Chinese market and the electric vehicle transition [1][2][5]. Financial Performance - Honda's operating profit fell by 49.6% to 244.17 billion yen, while net profit decreased by 50.2% to 196.67 billion yen in the first quarter [1]. - The company estimates a total loss of 450 billion yen for the fiscal year due to tariffs [1]. Market Challenges - The automotive industry is facing a complex global challenge, including the impact of U.S. tariffs, fluctuating yen exchange rates, and poor performance in the electric vehicle sector [2]. - Honda's sales in China dropped by 14.74% year-on-year in July, with cumulative sales for the first seven months also showing a double-digit decline [3]. Competitor Performance - Other major automakers, including Toyota and Nissan, also reported declines in profits, with Toyota's operating profit down 11% and Nissan experiencing its first quarterly loss in five years [5][6]. - BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Ford reported significant drops in net profits, with Ford's decline exceeding 80% [6]. Importance of the Chinese Market - The Chinese market is increasingly critical for multinational automakers, with many facing intense competition and declining sales [7]. - Honda and Nissan both saw substantial sales declines in China, with Honda's sales down nearly 40% in the first half of the year [7]. Strategic Adjustments - Honda plans to continue adjusting production capacity in China, although no concrete discussions have taken place yet [2]. - Executives from Honda and other automakers acknowledge the need for significant internal reforms and a shift in strategy to better align with local market demands [4][8].