New Honda CEO is game for collaborations

Honda announces new president and CEO

Starting April 1, 2021, a new president and CEO will take the helm of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. This was announced during a meeting of the company’s Board of Directors. Toshihiro Mibe, currently the company’s Senior Managing Director, was named the next President and Representative Director. Mibe will take the reigns from Takahiro Hachigo, the current President and Representative Director, who will become a Director, effective April 1, 2021.

Hachigo formed Honda’s 2030 Vision to enable Honda to become "a company society wants to exist" into the future. Hachigo led Team Honda on a course to "solidify existing businesses" and "prepare for future growth." Under Hachigo’s leadership, Honda has increased efficiency and strengthened its operating structure in the areas of production and product development. Moreover, by pursuing the "selection and concentration" of its corporate resources on a global basis, a solid foundation for the future was established, preparing Honda to take on the challenges of the coming years.

Mibe, who joined Honda in 1987, has been primarily focused on the research and development of powertrains, particularly engines and transmissions. In 2019, Mibe became the President and Representative Director of Honda R&D Co., Ltd., and since 2020, Mibe has been concurrently serving as Senior Managing Director of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Mibe was particularly instrumental in the development of Honda’s hybrid and electric drivetrain systems, such as those used in cars like the Insight and motorcycles like the PCX Hybrid and Electric. Mibe is also a strong proponent of collaboration with other brands, particularly when it comes to technology.

“We would consider using external insight or potential alliances among other actions to make decisions without hesitation,” he said.

With Mibe at the helm, perhaps Honda’s push for standardized electric powertrains among Japenese motorcycles might soon be a reality.