Japanese automaker Honda's profit experienced a 3.5% rise during the October-December quarter compared to the previous year. This growth was driven by strong demand in markets such as the U.S. and Europe, as well as a recovery in its home market. Profit for the last quarter stood at 253.3 billion yen or $1.7 billion, while quarterly sales jumped 21% to a remarkable 5.39 trillion yen, equivalent to $36 billion.
Honda's overseas profits were amplified by a favorable exchange rate, particularly due to the dollar's increased value against the Japanese yen. This trend is expected to continue throughout the remainder of the fiscal year, ending in March.
Although the automotive industry has faced challenges due to computer chip shortages and other supply chain disruptions, Honda's latest results indicate a significant recovery, though not yet a complete return to pre-pandemic levels in all regions.
Honda's motorcycle sales have exhibited growth in recent months, particularly in markets like Brazil and Europe. The company also highlighted its commitment to electrification efforts, pointing to concepts showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, such as the Saloon and Space Hub models. Notably, Japanese automakers, including Honda, have faced some challenges in the global transition to pure electric vehicles, partly due to their strength in alternative eco-friendly models such as hybrids and fuel cells.
In the first nine months of the fiscal year, Honda reported strong vehicle sales, with 3.1 million units sold, surpassing the 2.7 million vehicles sold during the same period the previous year. This growth was primarily supported by robust sales in the U.S. market. While Honda experienced a decline in vehicle sales in Thailand and Indonesia, this was offset by an increase in sales in China.
Overall, for the full fiscal year ending in March, Honda projects a profit of 960 billion yen ($6.5 billion), surpassing an earlier forecast of 930 billion yen ($6.3 billion). This anticipated profit marks a significant improvement compared to the 651 billion yen earned the previous year.