Honda Motor(US:HMC) Jing Ji Guan Cha Wang·2025-11-11 11:52Core Viewpoint - Honda's automotive sales in China have significantly declined, with a 20.6% drop in October 2025 and a 20.5% decrease in cumulative sales from January to October 2025, indicating a challenging market position for the company in the region [2]. Sales Performance - Honda's terminal automotive sales in China for October 2025 were 59,886 units, down 20.6% year-on-year [2]. - Cumulative sales from January to October 2025 reached 527,740 units, reflecting a 20.5% decline compared to the previous year [2]. - Dongfeng Honda sold 29,678 vehicles in October, a 15.2% decrease, and 257,755 vehicles from January to October, down 24.7% [2]. - GAC Honda's October sales were 35,671 units, down 15.8%, with cumulative sales of 259,576 units, a 26.2% decline [2]. - In comparison, Toyota's sales in China showed growth, with GAC Toyota and FAW Toyota achieving year-on-year increases of 4.4% and 7%, respectively [2]. Market Position and Competition - Honda ranks last among Japanese joint venture brands in terms of sales performance in China [2]. - The company's struggles are attributed to a failed transition to electric vehicles, despite launching the e:N series and the Yae brand specifically for the Chinese market [2]. Strategic Adjustments - Honda has initiated several measures to address its poor market performance, including layoffs, production capacity optimization, supply chain restructuring, and the introduction of more Chinese smart technologies [3]. - By July 2024, Honda plans to reduce its total production capacity in China from 1.49 million to 1.2 million vehicles [3]. Supply Chain Developments - GAC Honda has agreed to acquire 50% of Dongfeng Honda Engine for approximately 1.172 billion yuan, enhancing its control over engine supply and improving operational efficiency [4]. - GAC Honda's registered capital will increase from $541 million to $867 million, with a total investment of about $326 million from GAC Group, Honda, and Honda China [4]. Management Changes - In September, Dongfeng Motor Group adjusted the management of Dongfeng Honda, appointing a new executive vice president to leverage experience in new energy technology and marketing [5]. Future Outlook - Honda's global strategy indicates a slowdown in its electrification process, potentially impacting its electric vehicle offerings in China [5]. - The launch of the second model under the Yae brand has been postponed to 2026, raising questions about Honda's ability to navigate the Chinese market effectively [5].