Honda to move automotive development to R&D unit, spurring innovation

Automaker seeks to regain edge in next-gen vehicles as Chinese rivals loom

20260209N Honda Shanghai

Honda’s automotive segment is struggling, with annual sales volume in China sinking 20% in 2025.  (Photo by Shinya Sawai)

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO — Honda Motor will relocate its automotive development division back to its R&D subsidiary, Nikkei has learned, in a push to spur innovation and regain a competitive advantage in next-generation vehicles.