UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F

OR

For the fiscal year ended March 31, 20112012

OR

For the transition period from              to             

OR

Date of event requiring this shell company report

For the transition period from              to            

Commission file number 1-7628

HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.

(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

JAPAN

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

No. 1-1, Minami-Aoyama 2-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8556, Japan

(Address of principal executive offices)

Mitsuhiro Okayama, Honda North America, Inc.,

ir@hna.honda.com, (212)707-9920, 156 West 56th Street, 20th Floor, New York, NY 10019, U.S.A.

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number, Telephone and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.

None

(Title of class)

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.

None

(Title of class)

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act,    Yes  x    No  ¨

If this report is an annual or transmission report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such file).    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or, a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer “in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer    x             Accelerated filer  ¨            Non-accelerated filer  ¨            

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S.GAAP  x    International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board  ¨    Other  ¨

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.    Item 17  ¨    Item 18  ¨

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

PART I

Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “we”, “us”, “our”, “Registrant”, “Company” and “Honda” as used in this Annual Report each refer to Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisors

Not applicable.

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Not applicable.

Item 3. Key Information

A. Selected Financial Data:

The selected consolidated financial data set out below for each of the five fiscal years ended March 31, 20112012 have been derived from our consolidated financial statements that were prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP).

You should read the U.S. GAAP selected consolidated financial data set out below together with “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report.

Weighted average number of shares outstanding

Net income attributable to Honda Motor Co., Ltd. per common share

Net income attributable to Honda Motor Co., Ltd. per common share has been computed by dividing net income attributable to Honda Motor Co., Ltd. available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year.

Dividends declared during the period per common share

Additionally, a year-end dividend of ¥15 ($0.18) per common share aggregating ¥27.0 billion ($325329 million) relating to fiscal 20112012 was determined by our boardBoard of directorsDirectors in April 20112012 and approved by our shareholders in June 2011.2012. This dividend will be paid in June 2011.2012.

TransfersU.S. dollar amounts for dividends per share are translated from yen for the convenience of Financial Assets, and Consolidationreaders at the year-end exchange rate of Variable Interest Entitieseach period.

Honda adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2009-16 “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets”, and ASU 2009-17 “Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities”, effective April 1, 2010. Upon the adoption of these standards, ten former QSPEs that were not consolidated as of March 31, 2010 were consolidated by the Company as of April 1, 2010. See note 1(c) to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Exchange Rates

In this Annual Report, yen amounts have been translated into U.S. dollars for the convenience of readers. Unless otherwise noted, the rate used for these translations was ¥83.15¥82.19 =$1.00, which represents the approximate exchange rate quoted on the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on March 31, 2011.2012. No representation is made that yen amounts could have been, or could be, converted into U.S. dollars at that rate or any other rate on this or any other data or at all.

The following table sets out information regarding the noon buying rates for yen in New York City as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York expressed in yen per $1.00 during the periods shown. On May 31, 2011,2012, the noon buying rate was ¥81.29 =$¥78.29=$1.00. The average exchange rate for the period shown is the average of the month-end rates during the period.

B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not applicable.

C. Reason for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable.

D. Risk Factors

You should carefully consider the risks described below before making an investment decision. If any of the risks described below actually occurs, Honda’s business, financial condition or results of operations could be adversely affected. In that event, the trading prices of Honda’s common stock and American Depositary Shares could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment. Additional risks not currently known to Honda or that Honda now deems immaterial may also harm Honda and affect your investment.

Risks Relating to the Great East Japan Earthquake and its Aftermath

The Great East Japan Earthquake occurred on March 11, 2011 and the Fukushima’s nuclear power plant disaster have caused and will continue to cause significant damage to the Japanese economy. After March 11, 2011, Honda temporarily suspended or reduced production at Honda’s automobile plants in and outside of Japan. However, the production in Japan has in general returned to normal levels since late June, and production outside of Japan is expected to be generally normalized from around August to September. In addition, although Honda’s business sites, such as Honda’s R&D subsidiaries located in Tochigi Prefecture, were heavily damaged, currently we expect them to be restored. Although prospects for restoration of business activities have become clear, as mentioned above, Honda’s production activities may be affected depending on the status of the future supply of certain parts for which supply is currently restricted, and on the status of infrastructure, such as the supply of electricity and logistics services. Furthermore, sales in domestic and international markets may decline. Depending on the magnitude of these effects, Honda’s results of operations may be adversely affected.

Risks Relating to Honda’s Industry

Honda may be adversely affected by market conditions

Honda conducts its operations in Japan and throughout the world, including North America, Europe and Asia. A sustained loss of consumer confidence in these markets, which may be caused by continued economic slowdown, recession, changes in consumer preferences, rising fuel prices, financial crisis or other factors could trigger a decline in demand for automobiles, motorcycles and power products that may adversely affect Honda’s results of operations.

Prices for automobiles, motorcycles and power products can be volatile

Prices for automobiles, motorcycles and power products in certain markets may experience sharp changes over short periods of time. This volatility is caused by manyvarious factors, including fierce competition, which is increasing, short-term fluctuations in demand fromcaused by instability in underlying economic conditions, changes in tariffs, import regulations and other taxes, shortages of certain materials and components, highparts, steep rise in material prices and sales incentives by Honda or other manufacturers or dealers.incentives. There can be no assurance that such price volatility will not continue or intensifyfor an extended period of time or that price volatility will not occur in markets that to date have not experienced such volatility.

Overcapacity within the industry has increased and will likely continue to increase if the economic downturn continues in Honda’s major markets, or worldwide, leading, potentially, to further increased price pressure.volatility. Price volatility in any or all of Honda’s markets could adversely affect Honda’s results of operations in a particular period.operations.

Risks Relating to Honda’s Business Generally

Currency and Interest Rate Risks

Honda’s operations are subject to currency fluctuations

Honda has manufacturing operations throughout the world, including Japan, and exports products and components to various countries.

Honda purchases materials and components and sells its products and components in foreign currencies. Therefore, currency fluctuations may affect Honda’s pricing of products sold and materials purchased. Accordingly, currency fluctuations have an effect on Honda’s results of operations and financial condition, as well as Honda’s competitiveness, which will over time affect its results.

Since Honda exports many products and components, particularly from Japan, and generates a substantial portion of its revenues in currencies other than the Japanese yen, Honda’s results of operations would be adversely affected by an appreciation of the Japanese yen against other currencies, in particular the U.S. dollar.

Honda’s hedging of currency and interest rate risk exposes Honda to other risks

Although it is impossible to hedge against all currency or interest rate risk,risks, Honda uses derivative financial instruments in order to reduce the substantial effects of currency fluctuations and interest rate exposure on our cash flowflows and financial condition. These instruments include foreign currency forward contracts, currency swap agreements and currency option contracts, as well as interest rate swap agreements. Honda has entered into, and expects to continue to enter into, such hedging arrangements. As with all hedging instruments, there are risks associated with the use of such instruments. While limiting to some degree our risk fluctuations in currency exchange and interest rates by utilizing such hedging instruments, Honda potentially forgoes benefits that might result from other fluctuations in currency exchange and interest rates. Honda is also exposed to the risk that its counterparties to hedging contracts will default on their obligations. Honda manages exposure to counterparty

credit risk by limiting the counterparties to major international banks and financial institutions meeting established credit guidelines. However, any default by such counterparties might have an adverse effect on Honda.

Legal and Regulatory Risks

The automobile, motorcycle and power product industries are subject to extensive environmental and other governmental regulations, including with respect to global climate changes

Regulations regarding vehicle emission levels, fuel economy, noise and safety and noxious substances, as well as levels of pollutants from production plants, are extensive within the automobile, motorcycle and power product industries. These regulations are subject to change, and are often made more restrictive, particularly in recent years, due to an increasing concern with respect to possible global climate changes. The costs to comply with these regulations can be significant to Honda’s operations.

Honda is reliant on the protection and preservation of its intellectual property

Honda owns or otherwise has rights in a number of patents and trademarks relating to the products it manufactures, which have been obtained over a period of years. These patents and trademarks have been of value in the growth of Honda’s business and may continue to be of value in the future. Honda does not regard any of its

businesses as being dependent upon any single patent or related group of patents. However, an inability to protect this intellectual property generally, or the illegal infringement of some or a large group of Honda’s intellectual property rights, would have an adverse effect on Honda’s operations.

Honda is subject to legal proceedings

Honda is and could be subject to suits, investigations and proceedings under relevant laws and regulations of various jurisdictions. A negative outcome in any of the legal proceedings pending against Honda could adversely affect Honda’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

Risks Relating to Honda’s Operations

Honda’s financialFinancial services business conducts business under highly competitive conditions in an industry with inherent risks

Honda’s financialFinancial services business offers various financing plans to its customers designed to increase the opportunity for sales of its products and to generate financing income. However, customers can also obtain financing for the lease or purchase of Honda’s products through a variety of other sources that compete with our financing services, including commercial banks and finance and leasing companies. The financial services offered by us also involve credit risk as well as risks relating to lease residual values, cost of capital and access to funding. Competition for customers and/or these risks may affect Honda’s results of operations in the future.

Honda relies on variousexternal suppliers for the provision of certain raw materials and componentsparts

Honda purchases raw materials and certain components and parts from numerous external suppliers, and relies on some keycertain suppliers for some items andof the raw materials and parts which it uses in the manufacture of its products. Honda’s ability to continue to obtain these supplies in an efficient and cost-effective manner is subject to a number of factors, some of which are not within Honda’s control. These factors include the ability of its suppliers to provide a continued source of supplyraw materials and parts and Honda’s ability to compete with other users in obtaining the supplies. Loss of a key supplier in particular may affect our production and increase our costs.

Honda conducts its operations in various regions of the world

Honda conducts its businesses worldwide, and in several countries, Honda conducts businesses through joint ventures with local entities, in part due to the legal and other requirements of those countries. These businesses

are subject to various regulations, including the legal and other requirements of each country. If these regulations or the business conditions or policies of these local entities change, it may have an adverse affect on Honda’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

Honda may be adversely affected by wars, use of force by foreign countries, terrorism, multinational conflicts and frictions, political uncertainty, natural disasters, epidemics and labor strikes

Honda conducts its businesses worldwide and its operationssuch businesses may variously be subject toaffected by events, such as wars, use of force by foreign countries, terrorism, multinational conflicts and frictions, political uncertainty, natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunami and floods, epidemics and labor strikes, and other events beyond our control which may delay, disrupt or disrupt Honda’s local operations in the affected regions, includingsuspend the purchase of raw materials and parts, the manufacture, sales and distribution of products, and the provision of services. Delays or disruptionsservices, etc., in the region where such events occurred. Such events occurring in one region may in turn affect our global operations.other regions. If such delay, disruption or disruptionsuspension occurs and continues for a long period of time, Honda’s business, financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected.

Honda may be adversely affected by inadvertent disclosure of confidential information

Although Honda maintains internal controls through established procedures to keep confidential information including personal information of its customers and relating parties, such information may be inadvertently

disclosed. If this occurs, Honda may be subject to, and may be adversely affected by, claims for damages from the customers or parties affected. Also, inadvertent disclosure of confidential business or technical information to third parties may also result in a loss of Honda’s competitiveness.

Risks Relating to Pension Costs and Other Postretirement Benefits

Honda has pension plans and provides other post-retirement benefits. The amounts of pension benefits, lump-sum payments and other post-retirement benefits are primarily based on the combination of years of service and compensation. The funding policy is to make periodic contributions as required by applicable regulations. Benefit obligations and pension costs are based on assumptions of many factors, including the discount rate, the rate of salary increase and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. Differences in actual expenses and costs or changes in assumptions could affect Honda’s pension costs and benefit obligations, including Honda’s cash requirements to fund such obligations, which could materially affect our financial condition and results of operations.

A holder of ADSs will have fewer rights than a shareholder has and such holder will have to act through the depositary to exercise those rights

The rights of shareholders under Japanese law to take various actions, including exercising voting rights inherent in their shares, receiving dividends and distributions, bringing derivative actions, examining a company’s accounting books and records, and exercising appraisal rights, are available only to holders of record. Because the depositary, through its custodian agents, is the record holder of the Shares underlying the ADSs, only the depositary can exercise those rights in connection with the deposited Shares. The depositary will make efforts to exercise votes regarding the Shares underlying the ADSs as instructed by the holders and will pay to the holders the dividends and distributions collected from the Company. However, in the capacity as an ADS holder, such holder will not be able to bring a derivative action, examine our accounting books or records or exercise appraisal rights through the depositary.

Rights of shareholders under Japanese law may be more limited than under the laws of other jurisdictions

The Company’s Articles of Incorporation, Regulations of the Board of Directors, Regulations of the Board of Corporate Auditors and the Company Law of Japan (the “Company Law”) govern corporate affairs of the Company. Legal principles relating to such matters as the validity of corporate procedures, directors’ and

officers’ fiduciary duties, and shareholders’ rights may be different from those that would apply if the Company were a U.S. company. Shareholders’ rights under Japanese law may not be as extensive as shareholders’ rights under the laws of the United States. AAn ADS holder may have more difficulty in asserting his/her rights as a shareholder than such an ADS holder would as a shareholder of a U.S. corporation. In addition, Japanese courts may not be willing to enforce liabilities against the Company in actions brought in Japan that are based upon the securities laws of the United States or any U.S. state.

Because of daily price range limitations under Japanese stock exchange rules, a holder of ADSs may not be able to sell his/her shares of the Company’s Common Stock at a particular price on any particular trading day, or at all

Stock prices on Japanese stock exchanges are determined on a real-time basis by the equilibrium between bids and offers. These exchanges are order-driven markets without specialists or market makers to guide price formation. To prevent excessive volatility, these exchanges set daily upward and downward price fluctuation limits for each stock, based on the previous day’s closing price. Although transactions may continue at the upward or downward limit price if the limit price is reached on a particular trading day, no transactions may take place outside these limits. Consequently, an investor wishing to sell at a price above or below the relevant daily limit may not be able to sell his or her shares at such price on a particular trading day, or at all.

U.S. investors may have difficulty in serving process or enforcing a judgment against the Company or its directors, executive officers or corporate auditors

The Company is a limited liability, joint stock corporation incorporated under the laws of Japan. Most of its directors, executive officers and corporate auditors reside in Japan. All or substantially all of the Company’s assets and the assets of these persons are located in Japan and elsewhere outside the United States. It may not be possible, therefore, for U.S. investors to effect service of process within the United States upon the Company or these persons or to enforce against the Company or these persons judgments obtained in U.S. Courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the Federal securities laws of the United States. There is doubt as to the enforceability in Japan, in original actions or in actions for enforcement of judgment of U.S. courts, of liabilities predicated solely upon the federal securities laws of the United States.

The Company’s shareholders of record on a record date may not receive the dividend they anticipate

The customary dividend payout practice and relevant regulatory regime of publicly listed companies in Japan may differ from that followed in foreign markets. The Company’s dividend payout practice is no exception. While the Company may announce forecasts of year-end and quarterly dividends prior to the record date, these forecasts are not legally binding. The actual payment of year-end dividends requires a resolution of the Company’s shareholders. If the shareholders adopt such a resolution, the year-end dividend payment is made to shareholders as of the applicable record date, which is currently specified as March 31 by the Company’s Articles of Incorporation. However, such a resolution of the shareholders is usually made at an ordinary general meeting of shareholders held in June. The payment of quarterly dividends requires a resolution of the Company’s boardBoard of directors.Directors. If the board adopts such a resolution, the dividend payment is made to shareholders as of the applicable record dates, which are currently specified as June 30, September 30 and December 31 by the Articles of Incorporation. However, the board usually does not adopt a resolution with respect to a quarterly dividend until after the respective record dates.

Shareholders of record as of an applicable record date may sell shares after the record date in anticipation of receiving a certain dividend payment based on the previously announced forecasts. However, since these forecasts are not legally binding and resolutions to pay dividends are usually not adopted until after the record date, our shareholders of record on record dates for year-end and quarterly dividends may not receive the dividend they anticipate.

Cautionary statement with respect to forward looking statements in this Annual Report

This Annual Report includes “forward looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The forward-lookingforward looking statements included in this Annual Report are based on the current assumptions and beliefs of Honda in light of the information currently available to it, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause Honda’s actual results, performance, achievements or financial position to be materially different from any future results, performance, achievements or financial position expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors are generally set forth in Item 3.D “Risk Factors” and include, without limitation:

Honda undertakes no obligation and has no intention to publicly update any forward-lookingforward looking statement after the date of this Annual Report. Investors are advised to consult any further disclosures by Honda in its subsequent filings pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

Item 4. Information on the Company

A. History and Development of the Company

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is a limited liability, joint stock corporation incorporated on September 24, 1948 under the Commercial Code of Japan as Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha. It was formed to succeed to the business of an unincorporated enterprise established in 1946 by the late Soichiro Honda to manufacture motors for motorized bicycles.

Honda develops, produces, and manufactures a variety of motor products, ranging from small general-purpose engines and scooters to specialty sports cars that incorporate Honda’s highly efficient internal combustion engine technology.

Honda’s principal executive office is located at 1-1, Minami-Aoyama 2-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-8556, Japan. Its telephone number is 81-3-3423-1111.

Principal Capital Investments

In the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2011,2012, Honda’s capital expenditures were ¥1,302.0 billion, ¥893.0 billion, ¥1,125.0 billion, and ¥1,125.0¥1,108.1 billion, respectively, on an accrual basis. Also, capital expenditures

excluding those with respect to property on operating leases were ¥633.9 billion, ¥348.9 billion, ¥326.6 billion, and ¥326.6¥424.4 billion, respectively, on an accrual basis. For further details of Honda’s capital expenditures during fiscal 2011,2012, see “Property, Plants and Equipment” included as “Item 4.D” of this Annual Report.

B. Business Overview

General

Honda’s business segments are the motorcycleMotorcycle business, automobileAutomobile business, financialFinancial services business, and powerPower product and other businesses.

The following tables show the breakdown of Honda’s revenues from external customers by category of activity and by geographical markets based on the location of the customer during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2011:2012:

Motorcycle Business

In 1949, Honda began mass production of motorcycles with theDream D-Type, followed by other models such as theBenly and the Cub F-Type. By 1957, Honda became the top domesticJapanese manufacturer in terms of motorcycle production volume. Honda expanded its business overseas by establishing American Honda Motor Co., Inc. in the United States in 1959. Honda’s first overseas production started in Belgium in 1963.

Honda produces a wide range of motorcycles, ranging from the 50cc class to the 1800cc class in cylinder displacement. Honda’s motorcycles use internal combustion engines developed by Honda that are air- or water-cooled, four-cycle, and single, two, four or six-cylinder. Honda’s motorcycle line consists of sports (including trial and moto-cross racing), business and commuter models. Honda has also produced all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) since 1984 and multi utility vehicles (MUVs) since 2008.

The following table sets out unit sales for Honda’s motorcycleMotorcycle business, including motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and revenue from Motorcycle Business,business, and the breakdown by geographical markets based on the location of the customer during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2011:2012:

Motorcycles are produced by Honda in Japan at the Kumamoto factory. Honda’s motorcycles are also produced by subsidiaries in countries around the world including Italy, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Brazil and Argentina.

For further information on recent operations and a financial review of the motorcycleMotorcycle business, see “Operating Results” in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”.

Automobile Business

Honda started the automobileAutomobile business in 1963 with theT360 mini-truckmini truck and theS500 small sports car, and subsequently launched a series of mass-produced models including theCivic in 1972, theAccord in 1976, which established a base for its automobileAutomobile business. In 1969, production of the mini-vehiclesmini vehiclesN600 andTN600 began in Taiwan using component parts sets. In 1982, Honda became the first Japanese automaker to begin local automobile production in the United States (with theAccord).

Honda’s automobiles use gasoline engines of three, four or six-cylinder, diesel engines and gasoline-electric hybrid systems. Honda also offers alternative fuel-powered vehicles such as natural gas, ethanol, and fuel cell vehicles.

Honda’s principal automobile products include the following vehicle models:

Passenger cars:

Accord, Brio, City, Civic, CR-Z, Fit/Jazz, Fit/Jazz Hybrid, Fit Shuttle, Fit Shuttle Hybrid, FREED, FREED Hybrid, Insight, Inspire, Legend, Accord, Inspire, Civic, Insight, City,Stream, Acura RL, Acura TL, Acura TSX, Acura CSX, CR-ZEverus S1

Minivans, Multi-wagons, Sport Utility Vehicle:Light trucks:

Crosstour,CR-V, Elysion, Odyssey, Step Wagon, Stream, FREED, Airwave, Fit/Jazz, Fit/Jazz Hybrid, Partner, Pilot, Ridgeline, CR-V, Element,Step WGN, Acura MDX, Acura RDX, Acura MDX, Acura ZDX Accord Crosstour

Mini cars:vehicles:

Acty, Life, Zest,N Box, Vamos, ActyZest

The following table sets out Honda’s unit sales of automobiles and revenue from Automobile Businessbusiness and the breakdown by geographical markets based on the location of the customer during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2011:2012:

Automobiles are produced by Honda at two sites in Japan: the Saitama factory and the Suzuka factory. Our major production sites overseas include those located in Ohio (U.S.A.), Alabama (U.S.A.), Indiana (U.S.A.), Ontario (Canada), Swindon (U.K.), Ayutthaya (Thailand), Uttar PradeshGreater Noida (India) and Sao Paulo (Brazil). Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd., one of our consolidated subsidiaries, assembles Mini carsmini vehicles for the Japanese domestic market.

For further information on recent operations and a financial review of the automobileAutomobile business, see “Operating Results” in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”.

Financial Services Business

We offer a variety of financial services to our customers and dealers through finance subsidiaries in countries including Japan, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil and Thailand, with the aim of providing sales support for our products. The services of these subsidiaries include retail lending, leasing to customers and other financial services, such as wholesale financing to dealers.

The following table sets out Honda’s revenue from Financial Services Businessservices business and the breakdown by geographical markets based on the location of the customer during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2011:2012:

For further information on recent operations and a financial review of the financialFinancial services business, see “Operating Results” in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”.

Power Product and Other Businesses

Honda’s powerPower product business began in 1953 with the introduction of the model theH, its first general purpose engine. Since then, Honda has manufactured a variety of power products including tillers, portable generators, general-purpose engines, grass cutters, outboard marine engines, water pumps, snow throwers, power carriers, power sprayers, lawn mowers and lawn tractors (riding lawn mowers). In 2003, Honda introduced a compact home-use cogeneration^* unit. In addition, Honda began sales of thin film solar cells made of crystalline silicon for home use in 2007 and for public and industrial use in 2008.

The following table sets out Honda’s revenue from Power Productproduct and Other Businessesother businesses and the breakdown by geographical markets based on the location of the customer during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2011:2012:

For further information on recent operations and a financial review of the powerPower product and other businesses, see “Operating Results” in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”.

Marketing and Distribution

Most of Honda’s products are distributed under the Honda trademarks in Japan and/or in overseas markets.

Sales in Japan

Sales of Honda motorcycles, automobiles, and power products in Japan are made through different distribution networks. Honda’s products are sold to consumers primarily by independent retail dealers throughout Japan.

Motorcycles are distributed through approximately 7,6007,000 outlets, including approximately 660600 “PRO’S” shops and approximately 100 Honda Dream authorized dealerships.

As for the automobile distribution network, at present, approximately 770760 retail dealers operate approximately 2,1802,160 shops and sell models including theLegend, Inspire, Accord, Accord Tourer, Civic-R EU,Civic-Type R EURO, Insight, Elysion, Odyssey, Step Wagon, Stream,Inspire, Legend, CR-V, CR-Z, FREED, FREED Hybrid, FREED SPIKE, FREED SPIKE Hybrid, Elysion, Fit, Fit Hybrid, CR-V, CR-Z,Fit Shuttle, Fit Shuttle Hybrid, Odyssey, Step WGN, Stream, Acty, Life, Zest,N Box, Vamos and Acty.Zest.

Power products are distributed in Japan to approximately 1,2801,200 retail dealers throughout Japan, including affiliates of Honda. A number of small engines are also sold to other manufacturers for use in their products.

Service and Parts Related Operations in Japan

Sales of spare parts and after sales services are mainly provided through retail dealers. Training programs on automobile service technicians are provided for dealers regularly by Honda’s Automobile Sales Operations (Japan).

Overseas Sales

In fiscal 2011,2012, approximately 96% of Honda’s overseas sales were made through its principal foreign sales subsidiaries, which distribute Honda’s products to local wholesalers and retail dealers.

In the United States, Honda markets its products through a sales network of approximately 1,1001,070 independent local dealers for motorcycles, approximately 1,3001,310 for automobiles and approximately 7,2007,400 for power products. Many of the motorcycle dealers and some of the automobile dealers also sell Honda’s power products. In 1986, Honda opened the first Acura automobile dealerships in the United States. The Acura network in the United States totaled 270272 dealerships at the end of fiscal 2011.2012. The Acura network offersILX, MDX, RDX, RL, TL, TSX, TSX Sport Wagon RDX, MDX,and ZDXmodels, andCSX in Canada.models.

With regard to exports from North America, Honda is currently exporting such North American-built models as theAccord, Civic, Crosstour, Element, Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, Acura MDX, Odyssey,Acura RDX, Acura TL Ridgeline, RDX, Element and Acura ZDXto other markets. In fiscal 2011,2012, Honda exported approximately 42,00065,600 units from North America to 4145 countries throughout the world.

In Europe, Honda’s products are distributed through approximately 1,650 independent local dealers for motorcycles, approximately 1,6001,400 for automobiles and approximately 2,600^* for power products.

In Asia, Honda’s products are distributed through approximately 16,20012,500 independent local dealers for motorcycles, approximately 1,3701,430 for automobiles and approximately 1,6102,740^* for power products.

The Company exports motorcycle components to 1514 countries, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand and Brazil, where motorcycles are manufactured by its subsidiaries, joint venture firms and licensees. Some of the components used in the production of these vehicles are supplied locally.

The Company exports automobile components to 15 countries, including the United States, Canada, China, Thailand and Brazil, where automobiles are manufactured by its subsidiaries, joint venture firms and licensees. Some of the components used in the production of these vehicles are supplied locally.

The Company also exports power product components to seven countries, including Thailand and China, where power products are manufactured by its subsidiaries, joint venture firms and licensees. Some of the components used in the production of these products are supplied locally.

Service and Parts Related Operations Overseas

Honda provides its overseas operations, joint venture firms, independent distributors and licensees with spare parts and necessary technical information, which they in turn supply to wholesale or retail dealers, either directly or through one or more spare parts distributors.

Components and Parts, Raw Materials and Sources of Supply

Honda manufactures the major components and parts used in its products, including engines, frames and transmissions. Other components and parts, such as shock absorbers, electrical equipment and tires, are purchased from numerous suppliers. The principal raw materials used by Honda are steel plate, aluminum, special steels, steel tubes, paints, plastics and zinc, which are purchased from several suppliers. The most important raw material purchased is steel plate, accounting for approximately 44%46% of Honda’s total purchases of raw materials.

No single supplier accounted for more than 5% of the Company’s purchases of major components and parts and principal raw materials during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011.2012.

Ordinarily, Honda does not have and does not anticipate having any difficulty in obtaining its required materials from suppliers and considers its contracts and business relations with the suppliers to be satisfactory. Due to the Great East Japan Earthquake, Honda has a shortage of certain parts supplies, but Honda considers this shortage is temporarily. The Company does not believe any of its Japanese domestic suppliers are substantially more dependent on foreign suppliers than are Japanese suppliers generally. ItHowever, it should be noted that Japanese industry in general is heavily dependent on foreign suppliers for substantially all of its raw materials.

Seasonality

Honda’s motorcycleMotorcycle and powerPower product businesses have historically experienced some seasonality. However, this seasonality has not generally been material to our financial results.

Environmental and Safety Regulation

Outline of Environmental and Safety Regulation for Automobiles

1. Emissions

Japan

In 2005, to limit emissions into the environment and the impact on global climate changes, the Central Environment Council in the Ministry of Environment created new long-term targets and comprehensive requirements for gasoline and diesel vehicles which have become effective starting from 2008. New long term targets for gasoline vehicles remain unchanged except for direct injection gasoline vehicles which will be required to meet the particulate matter (PM) standard. New long-term emissions targets for diesel vehicles have been lowered by more than 50% from the current level of NOx and PM standards.

Furthermore, in March 2008, to strengthen the enforcement of laws, the 2009 Exhaust Emission Standards were created after the passage of new long-term regulation. Long-term targets for gasoline vehicles remainremained unchanged except those for direct injection gasoline vehicles, which willwere also be required to meet the PMparticulate matter (PM) standard. New long termlong-term emissions targets for diesel vehicles have beenwere lowered by more than 60% from the current2005 level of NOx and PM standards.

In 2010, the Central Environment Council of the Ministry of Environment reviewed the current JC08 mode concerning the exhaust emission test mode and commenced a study for the introduction of WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure).

The United States

Increasingly stringent emission regulations under the Clean Air Act have been enacted since the 1990s by the U.S. federal government. Under the Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in February 2000 adopted more stringent vehicle emissions regulations applicable to passenger cars and light-duty trucks produced from model year 2004. Moreover, the new standard provides for gradual decreases in sulfur levels contained in fuel in the U.S. market.

Under the Clean Air Act, the State of California is permitted to establish its own emission control standards to the extent they are more stringent than federal standards. Pursuant to this authority, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the “California Low Emission Vehicle Program” in 1990, aiming to establish the strictest emission regulation in the world. In late 1998, the CARB strengthened its regulatory standards through the introduction of new standards, known as the “California Low Emission Vehicle Program II” (LEV II). These new standards treat most light trucks the same as passenger cars and require both types of vehicles to meet the new emissions standards of LEV II. In January 2001, the CARB approved modifications to the “Zero- Emission Vehicles” (ZEV) requirement under LEV II, permitting gasoline Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (SULEV), hybrid vehicles (powered by gasoline engine and/or electric motor) and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles to partially meet zero-emission requirements by satisfying certain additional requirements. The modified requirements also provide incentives for continued technology development.

In April 2004, the CARB finalized its “ZEV”“Zero-Emission Vehicles” (ZEV) requirements. Under these requirements, beginning with 2005 model cars, 6% of vehicles sold in California by a car manufacturer must be Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV), which includes SULEVSuper Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (SULEV) with warranties coverage up to the earlier of 15 years or 150,000 driven miles, 2% must be advanced technology PZEV and 2% must be ZEV. Required percentages have been gradually increased under the ZEV standards from the 2008 model cars.

In March 2009, the CARB amended “ZEV regulation”. The CARB requires to require 7,500 fuel cell vehiclesFuel Cell Vehicles (FCV) in the entire industry from 2009 to 2011 instead of currentthe previous requirement of 2,500 FCV. In addition, the manufacturermanufacturers should sell thea significant number of Enhanced Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (Enhanced AT-PZEV) in the market after the 2012 model year.

In 2010,December 2011, the CARB beganissued the Advanced Clean Car package of regulations, which included proposals to discuss with the automobile industry, the next phase exhaust emission standard, “Californiaamend California Low Emission Vehicle Program III”III (LEV III), and ZEV regulations. As to the LEV III regulation, which applies to 2015 and subsequent model years, limit values for emissions and evaporative emissions, etc. are enhanced. The ZEV regulation was revised so that requirements can be satisfied by TZEV (formerly, Enhanced AT-PZEV) and ZEV alone for 2018 and subsequent model years. Also, the BEVx category was added for ZEV vehicles; such category includes battery electric vehicles with auxiliary power units.

In addition, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expectedplanning to have more stringent standards.propose a LEV III equivalent emission regulation (Tier 3) in 2012.

Currently, many other states have also adopted or proposedplanned to adopt the California LEV III and ZEV regulation.regulations.

Europe

In each EU country, standards, such as those providing for preferential automobile tax treatment, have been established in respect of diesel vehicles that comply with the requirements prescribed in Euro4 for which the PM emission does not exceed 5mg/km.

In 2005, the European Union created new emission standards (Euro5 and Euro6) and comprehensive requirements for gasoline vehicles and diesel vehicles. Euro5 was implemented in September 2009. Emission limits for gasoline vehicles and diesel vehicles were further lowered compared to the Euro4 level of HC, NOx and PM. PM mass emission standards shall apply only to vehicles with direct injection engine.engines.

Additionally, beginning September 2011, Euro5 is expected to requirerequired limits on particle number emissions from diesel vehicles, and to implementimplemented new test measurementmeasurements for PM mass emissions from gasoline vehicles with direct injection engineengines and from diesel vehicles.vehicles on and after September 2011.

Euro6 will be implemented in 2014. Emission limits for diesel vehicles will be lowered even more than the Euro5 level HC and NOx. Additionally, Euro6 will require limits on Particle numberparticle numbers from gasoline vehicles.

Russia

The Euro4 regulation has been in effect from January 2010. Additionally, the Euro5 regulation will be implemented in January 2014.

China

China adopted Step3 and Step4 emission regulations for light-duty vehicles in 2005. These regulations are similar to European regulations (such as Euro3 and Euro4). Step3 was implemented in 2007 and Step4 was implemented in July 2010. In addition, China has proposed to implement Step5 emission regulations in 2015 or 2016, which is based on Euro5.

In the city of Beijing, Step3 was implemented in December 2005 and Step4 was implemented in March 2008. In addition, the city of Beijing is studyingconsidering the introduction of Step5 emission regulations in the second half of 2012.

Other Regions

SouthIn Korea, adopted the enforcement regulationAtmospheric Environment Preservation Act, which applies to the whole country, was amended. Diesel Euro6 (including the Particulate Number (PN) regulations) and the enhancement of gasoline evaporative emission regulations will be enforced from 2014. In addition, the Special Act on Capital Region Air Quality Improvement. Accordingly, some manufacturers were required to sell low emission vehiclesImprovements, which meet a more stringent emission standard than those meetingapplies in the national standard from January 2005. In January 2009, an enhanced national emission standard was implemented.capital region, is currently under review. The 2014 enforcement items in the Atmospheric Environment Preservation Act may become effective as early as 2012.

Several other Asian countries have adopted regulations which are similar to the European regulations (such as Euro2 and Euro3). Some of these countries are studyingconsidering the introduction of Euro4 and Euro5.

Australia implemented Euro4-equivalent regulations in July 2008. In addition, Australia is studying introduction of Euro5 inwill introduce Euro5-equivalent regulations from November 2013.

2. Fuel Economy / CO₂

Japan

In 1998, an amendment was made to the Law Concerning Rationalization of Energy Usage that established a fuel efficiency standard based on weight class in Japan. This standard was tightened in 2005 for diesel-fueled automobiles. For gasoline automobiles, tighter standards were implemented during 2010.

In light of the CO₂ reduction targets promulgated under the Kyoto Protocol in respect to concerns related to possible global climate changes, the Japanese government issued a fuel regulation for an interim ethanol blending limit (less than 3%) which became effective in 2003. The Japanese government intends to further increase this limit until the final target of 10% is achieved within a decade from 2003.

In 2005, discussions about the “POST-2010” standard took place among the applicable ministries and industries. In February 2007, the final “POST-2010” target, or the “2015 standard”, was announced. Fuel consumption will be reduced by 29.2% compared to the 2010 target for passenger cars.

In June 2010, the MLITMinistry of Land, Infrastructure and METI set out a committee respectivelyTransport (MLIT) and the Ministry of Economy, Trend and Industry (METI) jointly to commencecommenced a study to formulate the new fuel efficiency standardstandards for passenger motor vehicles, etc. towardfrom 2020. In July 2011, the joint committee opened their proposals for public comments. The next term fuel economy standards, effective from 2020, are expected to improve the 2015 standards by 19.6% and adopt the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) method from the US.

In order to introduce E10, fuel that is 10% ethanol blended in gasoline, the public was invited to comment in January 2012 on an amendment of an announcement that prescribes details of safety regulations for road vehicles. Japan plans to introduce E10 from April 2012.

Ethanol blended fuel is a “biomass fuel”. Biomass fuel is regarded as an effective countermeasure for CO₂ reduction. CO₂ emissions after burning ethanol fuel produced with biomass resources (such as plants or wood) are not counted as CO₂ emissions under the Kyoto Protocol.

The United States

The Federal Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act requires automobile manufacturers to comply with the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE)CAFE standards. Under the CAFE standards, manufacturers are subject to substantial penalties if automobiles produced by them in any model year do not meet the average standards for each category. The CAFE standard for passenger cars has been set at 27.5 miles per gallon (mpg) starting from the 1990 model year and for light trucks at 20.7 miles per gallon standard was established for the 1996-2004 model years. The standard for light trucks increased from the 2005 model year (21.0 miles per gallon) to the 2007 model year (22.2 miles per gallon).

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reformed the CAFE standard for light trucks in 2006. The new size-based CAFE standard for light trucks would have been implemented in the 2008 model year. However, on November 15, 2007, the United Stated Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decided to revoke the CAFE regulation concerning light-duty trucks that the NHTSA had adopted. The court held that the NHTSA failed to (1) implement the cost conversion of CO₂ emission when establishing the CAFE limit values concerning the 2008-2009 model year light-duty trucks, (2) establish the Backstop Requirements, (3) the requirements concerning classification of passenger automobiles and light-duty trucks and (4) prescribe the fuel economy limit values for all vehicles with the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating class of 8,500 to 10,000 pounds. The court held that the CAFE regulation was arbitrary and capricious and that, furthermore, it violated the U.S. Energy Policy and Conservation Act.

In addition, in 2007, former U.S. President Bush directed relevant U.S. federal agencies to take the first steps toward regulations that would reduce gasoline consumption and Green House Gas (GHG) emissions from vehicles by 20 percent over 10 years. Therefore, the NHTSA has to promptly establish new limit values conforming to the pertinent policy and to apply it in the earliest possible model year.

The NHTSA issued a new CAFE regulation draft which applies to passenger cars and light trucks from the 2011 model year to the 2015 model year on May 2, 2008. The proposal requires 31.6 miles per gallon for the combined CAFE standard in the 2015 model year. However, on January 26, 2009, President Obama announced that he has directed the NHTSA to issue the CAFE standard of the 2011 model year initially, and issue the standard for the 2012 model year and subsequent model years after reconsidering the details of this standard.

In March 2009, the NHTSANational Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued the CAFE regulation standard for passenger cars and light trucks for the 2011 model year. The CAFE standard calculation of passenger cars and light trucks for the 2011 model year use a footprint prescribed in the CAFE regulation issued in 2006. Industry-wideThe industry-wide combined average for the 2011 model year iswas estimated to be 27.3 mpg.

The EPA and the NHTSA jointly finalized the U.S. federal GHGGreen House Gas (GHG) regulation from the 2012 model year in accordance with President Obama’s announcement, and the EPA restricts carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission, and the NHTSA restricts fuel economy (mile per gallon).announcement. The standard for the 2016 model year is 250 g-CO₂/mile or 35.5 mpg over the industry average. In addition, a manufacturer is also deemed to comply with CARB GHG regulation if the manufacturer complies with EPA-GHG, based on an agreement among the White House, the CARB and the industry.

In August 2005, the CARB finalized its GHG regulation in response to concerns related to possible global climate changes. Under the GHG regulation, which became effective for the 2009 model year, automobile manufacturers have to improve fuel economy from the 2002 levels by more than 30% by the 2016 model year. Many other states have adopted the GHG regulations.

In April 2007, the Supreme Court ruled that the EPA has the authority to regulate GHG emissions. However, the EPA decided not to grant enforcement of the GHG regulation by the State of California on December 19, 2007. The EPA concluded that the Federal unified standard can contribute to a significant reduction of GHG emitted in all states and will be more effective than California’s approach.

In March 2008, the EPA denied California’s GHG regulation waiver request against the CARB. On January 26, 2009, U.S. President Obama announced that he had directed the EPA to review California’s waiver request. The EPA approved the waiver on July 8th, 2009 because the CARB promised that a manufacturer was also deemed to comply with CARB GHG regulation if the manufacturer complied with EPA-GHG from the 2012 through 2016 model years.

On May 21, 2010, President Obama ordered NHTSA and EPA to extend the National Program for cars and light-duty trucks to the 2017 model years 2017year and beyond with the support of CARB. On October 1, 2010,CARB on May 21, 2010. NHTSA, EPA, and CARB announcedgave the notice of their intent to conduct a joint rulemaking with respect to establish 2017 and later model year fuel economy and greenhouse gas standards on October 1, 2010. The NHTSA and EPA issued a proposed regulation on December 1, 2011 on GHG standards/ CAFE regulations for the model years 2017 and beyond. The numerous standards are expectedsubsequent model years. CARB also issued a proposed regulation that is almost equivalent to be issuedEPA’s proposal on September 1, 2011.GHG regulations.

Europe

In 2006, discussions about establishing targets for 2008 began among the European Commission, Member States and the automobile industry. In 2008, the European parliament adopted CO₂ regulations in response to concerns related to possible global climate changes. The adopted CO₂ regulations were published by Official Journal in June 2009.

Pursuant to thosethe CO₂ regulations, the European Commission set a more stringent target of 130 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer for new passenger cars offered for sale in the EU from 2012. In addition, the CO₂regulations provided manufacturers with the necessary incentive to reduce the CO₂ emissions of their vehicles by imposing an excess emissions premium if their average emission levels are above the limit value curve. This premium will beis based on the number of grams per kilometer (g/km) that an average vehicle sold by the manufacturer exceedsexceeding the limit imposed by the curve, multiplied by the number of vehicles sold by the manufacturer.

China

China adopted a fuel consumption regulation for passenger vehicles in 2004. Step 1 of this regulation was implemented in 2005 and Step 2 was implemented in 2008. In addition, the Chinese Government proposed Step3 regulations toStep 3 will presumably be implemented in 2012. It will be a Corporate Average Fuel EconomyConsumption regulation from Step3.Step 3.

Other Regions

South Korea adopted the regulation of Corporate Average Fuel Economy for passenger vehiclesintroduced CAFE in 2005. Domestic vehicles have been required2005 and plans to adhere to these regulations starting from 2006phase-in CAFE and imported vehicles have been required to meet the requirement from 2010. In addition, South Korea adopted a more stringent regulation in 2008 that will be implemented in 2012. However, as South Korea is reconsidering the implementation of these regulations, only selective regulation (Fuel Economy or CO₂) regulations from 30% for the 2012 model year to 100% for the 2015 model year.

India and Australia have also proposed to introduce fuel economy / CO₂regulations in 2015 and 2020 in a phased manner.

Taiwan and Malaysia are expected to be implemented in 2012.considering introducing fuel economy / CO₂ regulations.

3. Recycling / End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV) / REACH

Japan

Japan enacted the Automobile Recycling Law in July 2002, which required manufacturers to take back air bags, fluorocarbon and shredder residue derived from end-of-life vehicles (ELV), which became effective on January 1, 2005. ELV processing costs are collected from owners of cars currently in use and purchasers of new cars.

Europe

In September 2000, the European Union approved a directive requiring its member states to promulgate regulations implementing the following by April 21, 2002.

Manufacturers must be financially responsible for taking back end-of-life vehicles offered for sale after July 1, 2002 and dismantle and recycle the vehicles. Beginning on January 1, 2007, the requirement has also been applied to all vehicles offered for sale in the European Union before July 1, 2002.

Manufacturers must not use specified hazardous materials in vehicles offered for sale in the European Union after July 2003, and 95% of vehicle parts in new vehicle types sold in the European Union after December 15, 2008, must be designed to be re-usable and recoverable.

On December 30, 2006, the European Union adopted the Regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), which became effective on June 1, 2007. From June 1, 2008, any manufacturer or importer of chemical substances is required to submit a registration to the Agency, based on annual production or import quantity levels. Submitting a pre-registration between June 1 and December 1, 2008 will allow the manufacturer or importer to extend the deadline for submitting the registration for existing chemical substances. The list of Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) is amended periodically by addingto include new substances. Currently, 4673 substances are in the SVHC list. Upon a request by a consumer, a supplier of a product containing SVHC must provide the consumer with sufficient information, withincluding at least the name of the substance, within 45 days.

On February 18, 2011, the first set of substances which require the authorization for use after certain specified dates waswere announced. Manufacturers using these substances in Europe must either be authorized for the use after submitting thean application or use substitute the substances. Substances which require the authorization are expected towill be added periodically. Currently, 14 substances require authorization.

Other Regions

Taiwan and Korea implemented automobile recycling laws fromin January 1, 2008, following the regulations established by the European Union and Japan. In addition, China has a plan to implement automobile recycling laws in the near future.

4. Safety

Japan

In November 2007, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT)MLIT issued safety standards, which are applicable from July 1, 2012, for vehicles which use high voltage electric power such as electric vehicles or hybrid electric vehicles, to avoid electric shocks during normal operations and crashing.post crash. And further, in 2011, they are expected to adopt ECEhave adopted Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) R100 which was amended to incorporate the Japanese electrical safety standard.

In March 2008, the MLIT issued the technical standards for Event Data Recorders (EDRs). Installation of EDRs in vehicles and, if an EDRs is installed, compliance with MLIT’s technical standards, are both voluntary.

Japan Automobile Standards Internationalization Center (JASIC), which is organized by the MLIT and JAMA,Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA), among others, has started to review a proposal for the unification of Safety/Environment Standards, vehicle categories and certification in order to promote further internationalization of standards and certifications. JASIC is planning to makemade the proposal to other contracting parties of the 58 / 98 Agreement byin 2009 and aimaims at reaching an agreement among the contracting parties by 2015.

In January 2010, MLIT started preparing a guideline for some measures againstmeasurements of the silent characteristic of hybrid vehicles and also started studying how to regulate this.

In March 2010, in the session of the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP29) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, Japan proposed the establishment of “a mutual certification system of international vehicle type certifications”, which was agreed upon.

In March 2010, triggered by a hit-and-run accident in the United States, the MLIT began research on introducing “brake-override-systems”. During

In May 2011, the MLIT plans to introduce regulations and standards of bumpers’ impact absorption to protect legs of pedestrians.introduced a pedestrian leg protection standard, adopting, for the first time in the world, a flexible leg impactor that is improved in biomechanism characteristic.

The United States

In August 2006, the NHTSA issued a final rule revising performance requirements for advanced airbag systems. The rule upgrades the maximum speed for frontal barrier crash tests using a belted small adult female dummy. ManufacturerManufacturers must comply with the upgraded requirements for 35% of all vehicles produced by 2009, 65% by 2010, and 100% (with carryover credit) by 2011.

In April 2007, the NHTSA issued a final rule regarding an electronic stability control system standard for light vehicles to reduce rollover crashes. The new standard requires installation of electronic stability control system. Manufacturers have had to comply with the standard for 55% of all vehicles produced by 2008, 75% by 2009, 95% by 2010,2011, and 100% by 2011.

In May 2007, the NHTSA issued a final rule to revise some performance requirements for head restraints, to delay the effective date, and to set a phase-in compliance schedule. For front seat requirements, manufacturers have to comply with the revised requirements for 80% of all vehicles produced by 2009, and 100% by 2010. For voluntarily installed rear head restraints, manufacturers also must be in compliance for 80% of all vehicles by 2010, and 100% by 2011.2012.

In January 2008, the NHTSA issued a final rule to revise some performance requirements for event data recorders and to delay the effective date. Manufacturers offering passenger cars and/or other light vehicles equipped with event data recorders must comply with the revised requirements on or after September 2012.

In February 2008, the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act was established, and the NHTSA issued some regulations to prevent accidents involving children based on the Act. In March 2009, the NHTSA issued a proposed rule to address backover accidents. In December 2010, the NHTSA issued a proposal rule to require the vehicles with GVWR of 4,536kg or less to display a rear view image (i.e. requiring rearward camera system and screen system to display rear view image by camera system) for the purpose of taking countermeasures on backover accidents. Manufacturers must comply with the new requirements, in accordance with proposed phase-in compliance schedule.schedules. The NHTSA has decided to postpone the rulemaking schedule for the final rule until the end of 2012 due to the need for their further research and data analysis.

In June 2008, the NHTSA issued a final rule to revise some performance requirements and phase-in compliance schedules in upgraded side impact occupant protection standards. For both the moving deformable barrier test and the oblique side pole impact test, manufacturers must comply with the revised requirements for 20% of all vehicles produced by 2010, 40% by 2011, 60% by 2012, 80% by 2013 and 100% by 2014.

In October 2008, the NHTSA issued a final rule to revise the definition of Designated Seating Position (DSP) and to newly introduce the procedure for determining the number of DSPs. These are not Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), but manufacturers must comply with all requirements related to DSPs, such as the equipment requirement for 3-points safety belts, on and after September 1, 2011.

In May 2009, the NHTSA issued a final rule to upgrade the vehicle roof crush standard. The rule newly introduces the “Two-sided Roof Test,” which imposes the strength tests for both sides of the vehicle roof and increases the maximum applied load. For vehicles with GVWRa gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 2,722kg2,722 kg or less, manufacturers must comply with the upgraded requirements for 25% of all vehicles produced by 2012, 50% by 2013, 75% by 2014, and 100% by 2015. For heavier vehicles, manufacturers must comply with the standards on and after September 2016.

In December 2009,January 2011, the NHTSA issued a proposedfinal rule to prevent the ejection of occupants in rollover accidents. The rule requires “ejection mitigation countermeasure” (e.g. advanced glazing or head protection side

airbag) equipment which meetsmeet with performance requirements. Manufacturers must comply with the new requirements fromfor 25% of all vehicles produced by 2013, 50% by 2014, 75% by 2015, 100% (with carryover credit) by 2016, and all vehicles by 2017.

In February 2012, the first September which occurs after six years have elapsed since the issuanceNHTSA issued a proposed Driver Distraction Guideline. The purpose of the final rule.guideline is to reduce the number of crashes and resulting deaths and injuries that occur due to distracted driving while performing non-driving activities with integrated in-vehicle electronic devices. Compliance with this guideline is voluntary, but the NHTSA believes that manufacturers will take the initiative to implement these guidelines in an effort to improve safety.

Europe

The European Commission issued a new regulation for pedestrian protection, which includes installation requirements of the Brake Assist System. It required M1 (Passenger vehicles up to nine passengers) and N1 (Light commercial vehicles with gross vehicle weight up to 3.5 tons) vehicles to meet standards for the protection of pedestrians in the event of a collision with the front of a motor vehicle. The new regulation will be effective November 24, 2011 for new types of vehicles.

Additionally, the European Commission issued a new regulation for GSR (typetype approval requirements for the General Safety of vehicles)vehicles (GSR). It includes an installation requirement for the advanced safety system (Electronic Stability Control System (ESC) and TyreTire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)) and a tire performance requirement in order to improve the safety and environmental performance of vehicles.

In September 2008,February 2011, the United NationNations issued a revised Economic Commission for Europe (ECE)ECE regulation relating to the installation of lighting devices, to require the installationrequiring automatic switching of dedicated daytime running lamps (DRL).dipped-beam headlamps. For M1 and N1 vehicles, manufacturers must equip DRLthe dipped-beam headlamps shall be switched on and complyoff automatically relative to the ambient light conditions, if a vehicle is equipped with related requirementsdaytime running lamps on and after February 2011, if certified asJanuary 30, 2015.

Legislation of eCall is under consideration in the EU and Russia. eCall is a system that can automatically transmit vehicle status (Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) deployment, location, direction and other) to conventional infrastructures simultaneously with voice messages when crash accidents happen. Some relevant draft standards were published in the EU and Russia. The effective date of the EU eCall is scheduled for the end of first quarter in 2015 for new typevehicle. The effective date of Russian eCall (ERA-GLONASS) is scheduled for January 1, 2013 for new vehicle.

5. New Car Assessment Program (NCAP)

Programs that provide customers with assessments of car safety functions and promote the development of car safety by automobile manufacturers are conducted in countries such as the United States, Japan, Australia, the EU, Korea, China and China.Malaysia. The principal items assessed in these programs are passenger protection and braking power, which are typically assessed with stricter standards or criteria than those required by statute.

In July 2008, the NHTSA issued a final decision to upgrade NCAP testing and safety rating criteria with the revision of frontal and side impact tests, the introduction of an overall rating program, and the addition of ratings for crash avoidance technologies. These new tests and rating criteria are being used for vehicles tested as part of the NCAP beginning with model year 2011 vehicles.

Outline of Environmental and Safety Regulation for Motorcycles

1. Emissions

Japan

Japan has emissions regulations for motorcycles applicable to all classes of engine displacement. Some aspects of these requirements, such as standards for hydro-carbon levels and durability, are stricter than the

current European regulations, namely the Euro3 regulations. MLIT introduced WMTC test method and its applicable standards in 2010. In addition, MLIT introduced the Worldwide Harmonized Motorcycle Emissions Certification Procedure (WMTC) and its applicable standards in 2010. It will apply to new models from October 1, 2012.

The United States

Emissions regulations regarding off-road motorcycles and ATVs were introduced in 2006. In addition, the EPA adopted the current California emissions standards regarding on-road motorcycles on a national basis, two years behind the schedule of California. The new regulations include fuel permeation requirements rather than traditional evaporative emission standards.

Canada

The Canadian federal government has introduced emissions regulations, generally equivalent to the U.S. EPA regulations, for on-road motorcycles from the 2006 model year and for off-road motorcycles from April 2011.

Europe

The EU maintains emissions regulations (Euro3) for motorcycles, as well as the “Motor Cycle (& Moped)—Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA)”, a uniform certification system for two and three-wheeled motor vehicles. The Euro3 regulations are the most stringent class standard for motorcycles. Euro3 regulations have been in effect from January 2006. EUThe European Commission has introduced a recast proposal of WVTA which contains Euro4, 5Euro5 and 6Euro6 stage regulations.

Other Regions

Other countries, mainly in Asia, have implemented tighter emissions regulations based on European regulations.

In Thailand, a sixth stage of emissions control, which is generally equivalent to or stricter than Euro3, has been implemented.

In Indonesia, Euro2-equivalent regulations have been in effect from January 2006.

In China, the National third stage of emissions control, which is generally equivalent to or stricter than Euro3 regulations, was introduced in 2008.

In Korea, Euro3-equivalent regulations were implemented in 2008.

In Brazil, Euro3-equivalent regulations have been in effect from the beginning of 2009.

In India, second stage regulations based on the Indian authorities’ own test method are in effect and enhanced regulations were enacted in 2005. The third stage of emission control was implemented fromin 2010.

2. Safety

Japan

Japan introduced ECE R78—Braking system based on GTR (Global Technical Regulation)R10 (Electromagnetic Compatibility). It has applied the requirement to new type models from June 18, 2009, and applied itThe ECE R10-03 series will apply to all models from June 18, 2011.August 1, 2016. The ECE R10-04 series will apply to new models from August 1, 2016 and all models from October 28, 2016.

The United States

The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 was signed into law by former President Bush on August 14, 2008. In accordance with this, children’s products including ATVs and off-road motorcycles for children have had to comply with hazardous substance and other requirements (e.g. certificate, third party testing, tracking label requirements) after November 11, 2008, and ATVs products have had to comply with the ANSIAmerican National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard from April 13, 2009.

Three wheeled all terrainThree-wheeled all-terrain vehicles, or ATVs (formerly referred to as “ATC”s)“ATCs”) were a problem due to the youth- involvedyouth-involved accidents in the 80s’,‘80s, and ATVsATV regulations established at that time. However, it turned out that a voluntary standard, which was agreed to between the industry and regulators, was established. Although the number of accidents did not increase in the 90s’,‘90s, the ATVsATV market in the US experienced a rapid development from 2000 and the problem of youth-involved accidents increasing continued to be a focal point.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ATVsATV industry updated the voluntary standard in 2007. That standard has been introduced in the regulation.

Canada

The Canadian government revised the controls and display regulation in order to harmonize with U.S. motor vehicle safety standards. It has applied to all motorcycles manufactured from February 22, 2008.

Europe

The number of ATVs designed to travel on four low pressure tires on non-paved surfaces has recently increased in the EU market. Because travel on public roads is necessary in Europe, manufacturers in China, Taiwan and the U.S. have been receiving approval for their ATVs by the Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA) Quadricycle category, and the vehicles are used in mixed traffic without safety measures. For that reason, the EUEuropean Commission is continuing discussions with each industry organization, recognizing the need for a review of the definition and the requirements of these vehicles.

TheFrom January 19, 2013, a new directive regarding driving licenses will become effective. The directive was updated,revises the categories of licenses and established onincludes a new category for mopeds, and changed the contents of each category. The new directive will be effective from January 19, 2013.mopeds.

EUThe European Commission has been issued a recast proposal of WVTA which contains a mandatory of advanced brake system.system requirement.

Other regions

The BrazilBrazilian government issued a new regulation regarding anti-theft devices and has required installingdevice, which requires installations of an immobilizer and a vehicle tracking system on vehicles and motorcycles sold or registered from August 1, 2009. However, this regulation has not been implemented yet, because the Prosecutors Office had claimed it aswas unconstitutional and had asked the court to overturn it. The contents and the effective date of this regulation have been under consultation between the government and the industry. ItThe regulation was plannedoriginally scheduled to be implemented from May 1, 2011,August 30, 2012 but has beenis now expected to be postponed because infrastructuresinfrastructure will not be preparedready in time.

Many Asian countries, includingsuch as India, Thailand, and Vietnam, are introducing several regulations, such asregarding lighting, braking, and anti-theft, based on ECE regulations.

The Canadian government revised the controls and display regulation in order to harmonize with U.S. –  motor vehicle safety standards. It has applied to all motorcycle manufactured from February 22, 2008.

Outline of Environmental and Safety Regulation for Power Products

1. Emissions

The United States

The EPA introduced more stringent exhaust standards and new evaporative emission standards for fuel tanks and fuel lines used in the small non-road engines. The new regulation will applyapplied starting in the 2011 model year for Class II engines (above 225 cc) and, in the 2012 model year for Class I engines (less than 225 cc, used in non-handheld applications) and generally start in 2010 for handheld products. EPA also adopted a more stringent level of emission standards for outboard and personal watercraft engines startingstarted with the 2010 model year. This new regulation includes new standards to control evaporative emissions for all vessels using marine spark-ignition engines.

Canada

The Canadian federal government has introduced emissions regulations generally equivalent to the U.S. EPA regulations for outboard and personal watercraft engines from the 2012 model year. This new regulation includes to controlcontrols for evaporative emissions from the 2015 model year.

China

An exhaust emission standard was introduced in China on March 1, 2011. Its requirements are based on the European exhaust emission regulation and are applicable to small spark ignitionspark-ignition engines for non-road mobile machinery with 19 kW or less.

2. Safety

Japan

“The instituteInstitute of Agricultural Machinery”Machinery amended the safety standard of backward speed requirement for walk-behind equipment from 3.6 km/h to 1.8 km/h, and the interpretation of splash protection guard requirements for brush cutters. New models have had to comply with the standard from April 2010 and all models will need to comply with it from April 2015.

The United States

Based on the “Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008”, walk-behind lawn mowers have had to comply with the certificate requirements from November 11, 2008. The CPSC has enhanced the recall system by this Act.

Europe

The Machinery Directive was changed on May 16, 2006, and a new directive has been effective from December 29, 2009. The main changes were to clarify the scope of the directive (e.g. partly completed machinery such as an engine unit) and to, add the concrete description of market survey and create an obligation to establish a penalty description for member states.

China

The Chinese State Council has published the “Agricultural Machinery Safety Supervision and Management Regulations.”Regulations”. This regulation requires that defective agricultural machinery producers should conduct recalls in a timely manner. The producers should establish the quality assurance system for their products. In addition, agricultural machinery is required to comply with the applicable new technical standards. The new regulation was implemented on November 1, 2009.

Medium- and long-term management strategy and Management target: Preparing for the Next Leap Forward

Honda aims to achieve global growth by further encouraging and strengthening innovation and creativity and creating quality products that please the customers and exceed their expectations.

Therefore, in order to improve the competitiveness of its products, Honda will endeavor to enhance its R&D, production and sales capabilities. Furthermore, Honda will continue to enhance its social reputation in the community through companywide activities. Honda recognizes that further enhancing the following specific areas is essential to its success:

1. Research and Development

In connection with its efforts to develop the most effective safety and environmental technologies, Honda will continue to be innovative in advanced technology and products. Honda aims to create and introduce new value-added products to quickly respond to specific needs in various markets around the world. Honda will also continue its efforts to conduct research on experimental technologies for the future.

2. Production Efficiency

Honda will establish and enhance efficient and flexible production systems at its global production bases and supply high quality products, with the aim of meeting the needs of its customers in each region.

3. Sales Efficiency

Honda will remain proactive in its efforts to expand product lines through the innovative use of IT and will show its continued commitment to different customers throughout the world by upgrading its sales and service structure.

4. Product Quality

In response to increasing customer demand, Honda will upgrade its quality control by enhancing the functions of and coordination among the development, purchasing, production, sales and service departments.

5. Safety Technologies

Honda is working to develop safety technologies that enhance accident prediction and prevention, technologies to help reduce the risk of injuries to passengers and pedestrians from car accidents, and technologies that enhance compatibility between large and small vehicles, as well as expand its lineup of products incorporating such technologies. Honda will reinforce and continue to advance its contribution to traffic safety in motorized societies in Japan and abroad. Honda also intends to remain active in a variety of traffic safety programs, including advanced driving and motorcycling training programs provided by local dealerships.

6. The Environment

Honda will step up its efforts to create better, cleaner and more fuel-efficient engine technologies and to further improve recyclables throughout its product lines. Honda will also work to advance fuel cell technology and steadily promote its new solar cell business. In addition, Honda will further its efforts to minimize its environmental impact. To this end, Honda sets global targets to reduce the environmental burden as measured by the Life Cycle Assessment^*, in all areas of business, spanning production, logistics and sales.

7. Continuing to Enhance Honda’s Social Reputation and Communication with the Community

In addition to continuing to provide products incorporating Honda’s advanced safety and environmental technologies, Honda will continue striving to enhance its social reputation by, among other things, strengthening its corporate governance, compliance, and risk management as well as participating in community activities and making philanthropic contributions.

To achieve these targets, Honda will make all possible efforts in pursuit of its vision for the Company as it moves towards 2020: “To provide good products in a timely fashion, at affordable prices, and with low CO₂ emissions”

Preparing for the Future

The Company temporarily suspended production at its sites located in Japan dueHonda aims to achieve global growth by further encouraging and strengthening innovation and creativity and creating quality products that please the customers and exceed their expectations.

In 2011, Honda suffered the effects of two large-scale disasters, the Great East Japan Earthquake occurredand the floods in Thailand, but Honda will focus all its energies on March 11, 2011, which includedthe tasks set out below, aiming to get back on a shortagegrowth trajectory as it pursues the vision toward 2020 of parts supplies. “providing good products to customers with speed, affordability, and low CO₂ emissions”.

1. Research and Development

In addition, someconnection with its efforts to develop the most effective safety and environmental technologies, Honda will continue to be innovative in advanced technology and products. Honda aims to create and introduce new value-added products to quickly respond to specific needs in various markets around the world. Honda will also continue its efforts to conduct research on experimental technologies for the future.

2. Production Efficiency

Honda will establish and enhance efficient and flexible production systems at its global production bases and supply high quality products, with the aim of Honda’s business sites,meeting the needs of its customers in each region. Learning from the experience of disasters such as Honda’s R&D subsidiaries locatedthe Great East Japan Earthquake and the floods in Tochigi Prefecture, were heavily damaged. By April 11, 2011, the Company had resumed production activities at all of its production sites; however, production of completed automobiles at plants within Japan and production of components and parts for Honda’s overseas sites had been operating at approximately half the normal rate. Production in Japan has been nearly normalized in late June. Production at Honda’s automobile plants overseas has been reduced as well

and is expected to be nearly normalized around August to September. In such circumstances, Honda will endeavor to normalize the supply chain continuously and aims to return to normal production as soon as possible.Thailand, Honda will work on sales pickup by the recoveryat improving its global supply chain, implementing disaster prevention measures at each place of productionbusiness and bring about the recovery of its operations as soon as possible. Taking into account this experience, devising more effective business continuity plans (BCPs).

3. Sales Efficiency

Honda will striveremain proactive in its efforts to minimize risks that have surfaced dueexpand product lines through the innovative use of IT and will show its continued commitment to different customers throughout the earthquake disaster, including risks related to supply chain disruption.world by upgrading its sales and service structure.

4. Product Quality

In response to increasing customer demand, Honda will upgrade its quality control by enhancing the occurrencefunctions of inappropriate activities at and coordination among the development, purchasing, production, sales and service departments.

5. Safety Technologies

Honda Trading Corporation, which is working to develop safety technologies that enhance accident prediction and prevention, technologies to help reduce the risk of injuries to passengers and pedestrians from car accidents, and technologies that enhance compatibility between large and small vehicles, as well as expand its lineup of products incorporating such technologies. Honda will reinforce and continue to advance its contribution to traffic safety in motorized societies in Japan and abroad. Honda also intends to remain active in a subsidiaryvariety of the Company,traffic safety programs, including advanced driving and based on the investigation reportmotorcycling training programs provided by local dealerships.

6. The Environment

Honda will step up its efforts to create better, cleaner and suggestion for preventive countermeasures that was submittedmore fuel-efficient engine technologies and to the Company’s board of directorsfurther improve recyclables throughout its product lines. Honda has now set a target to reduce CO₂ emissions from its global products by 30 percent by the investigation committee established with external experts,end of 2020 compared to year 2000 levels. In addition to reducing CO₂ emissions during production and supply chain, Honda will strengthen its efforts to realize reductions in CO₂ emissions through its entire corporate activities. Furthermore, Honda will strengthen its efforts in advancing technologies in the Company will build a systemarea of total energy management, to make appropriate business judgments in accordancereduce CO₂ emissions through mobility and people’s everyday lives.

7. Continuing to Enhance Honda’s Social Reputation and Communication with the applicable lawsCommunity

In addition to continuing to provide products incorporating Honda’s advanced safety and regulations andenvironmental technologies, Honda will furthercontinue striving to enhance its social reputation by, among other things, strengthening its corporate governance, increasing compliance, awareness, and strengthening the risk management systems, including through the reexamination of personnel management systems.as well as participating in community activities and making philanthropic contributions.

Through these company-wide activities, Honda will strive to be a company that its shareholders, investors, customers and society want to exist.

C. Organizational Structure

As of March 31, 2011,2012, the Company had 9994 Japanese subsidiaries and 284 overseas subsidiaries. The following table sets out for each of the Company’s principal subsidiaries, the country of incorporation, function and percentage ownership and voting interest held by Honda.