Due primarily to the U.S. West Coast ports strike in the third quarter, Honda's Alliston assembly plant's production in 2002 of 361,018 was down 2.7 percent over 2001. "Our Canadian production has helped Honda's growth in Canada," said Ansari. "It provides flexibility and self-reliance to our business in Canada."
Honda started its Canadian production in 1986 with annual capacity of 40,000 units. Since then it has gradually increased its capacity and is scheduled to expand annual output to 390,000 by early spring 2003. "This is evidence of our commitment to Canadian society and economy, and further supports our growth in this market," Ansari added. The Alliston facility, with employment of 4,300, produces the Acura MDX luxury SUV, Acura EL Sport Sedan, Honda Pilot SUV, Honda Civic Sedan and the Honda Odyssey minivan.
"We have our customers and dealers to thank for our six years of consistent growth," said Ansari. "And with new products such as the Honda Accord, the all-new Honda Element 'Active Lifestyle Vehicle' going on sale later this month and Acura's all-new sport sedan coming to market this spring, we are confident that our strong sales momentum will continue in 2003."