Honda is set to unveil a refreshed “H” logo, marking its first major redesign in over two decades as part of a bold pivot toward electric and hybrid vehicles. Announced on January 13, 2026, the change symbolises the company’s “second founding,” aiming to expand mobility possibilities while honouring its origins.
The iconic “H” emblem dates back to 1963, originally a simple standalone letter without borders. It evolved through revisions in 1969, 1981, and 2000, eventually adopting the metallic grey rounded rectangle that became synonymous with reliability across sedans, SUVs, and sports cars.
Honda has revealed the new logo on its Zero Series electric vehicles, describing it as a symbol of the company’s “corporate attitude of going beyond our origin and constantly pursuing new challenges and advancements.”
The redesign is also said to resemble “two outstretched hands,” representing Honda’s commitment to “augment the possibilities of mobility and face our users sincerely.”
The new logo will begin rolling out in 2027 on the company’s electric fleet and major hybrid models, before expanding to other vehicles. Honda confirmed that the emblem will appear across its broader business, including dealerships and motorsport activities.
Despite the logo’s historical significance, fans have expressed scepticism online.
“Shows their creativity has ended,” critiqued one X user.
Another commented, “Does Honda’s new logo look like two outstretched hands to you? Maybe two outstretched hands in an SOS distress signal for help!”
Honda’s story began in 1946 when self-taught engineer Soichiro Honda attached surplus engines to bicycles for cheap transportation.
In 1948, he partnered with Takeo Fujisawa to form Honda Motor Co., Ltd., with Honda focusing on engineering and Fujisawa on business.
Their first original motorcycle, the 1949 Dream D-Type, launched rapid growth, and by 1959, Honda was the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer.
Honda entered automobiles in 1963 with the T360 mini-truck and S500 sports car, overcoming government resistance.
Global recognition came in the 1970s when the Civic’s CVCC engine met strict emissions standards during the oil crisis, cementing Honda’s reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency.
In subsequent decades, Honda expanded into luxury vehicles (Acura, 1986), robotics (ASIMO), aviation (HondaJet), and pioneered innovations like the first car navigation system (1981) and North America’s first hybrid (Insight, 1999).
Today, with its Zero Series EVs, Honda continues its “Man Maximum, Machine Minimum” philosophy.