Mountain View, CA — Honda, which has major facilities in North Carolina, has opened a new research and development facility in Silicon Valley and announced a new open innovation R&D initiativfe, Honda Xcelerator. The Xcelerator will provide resources to breakthrough technology innovators in the automotive industry.
The company also added Apple’s CarPlay and Android Auto to its 2016 Accord.
Honda’s Silicon Valley operation, which was first established in 2000, is charged with researching and prototyping game-changing innovations and harnessing new ideas and technology.
Current areas of focus include connected mobility, novel human-machine interfaces, supporting app developers through initiatives like Honda Developer Studio and computer science research for vehicle intelligence. Silicon Valley engineers also spearhead the company’s working relationship with Silicon Valley-based technology companies.
Honda’s Silicon Valley unit will spearhead a new initiative – Honda Xcelerator – designed to engage innovators and help them more rapidly commercialize breakthrough technologies.
The program provides funding for proof-of-concept prototyping and the opportunity to work directly alongside Honda engineers in Silicon Valley in a collaborative workspace, as well as pairing with Honda mentors. Innovators will also have the opportunity to pitch their technologies to Honda business units globally once their prototypes are developed. Interested innovators should visit the new Honda Xcelerator website at xcelerator.hondasvl.com to learn more.
Honda has major facilities in NC
· Honda Aircraft Company has invested $140 million into its production facility in Greensboro, N.C. for HondaJet, a new advanced light jet. This facility is part of the 83-acre campus Honda Aircraft Company world headquarters.
· Honda Aero, Inc. has invested $42 million into its aircraft engine production facility in Burlington, N.C. to supply the engines for HondaJet.
