Honda Begins Production of New HondaJet Aircraft
VTEC must have really kicked in because Honda is taking to the skies. The Japanese automaker known for its cars, motorcycles and power equipment just began commercial production of aircraft.
Honda is borrowing other tricks from the automotive side of its business. Engineers have developed a way to paint multiple aircraft at one time, an innovation that improves color consistency. Also, computer-controlled carts carry parts to different areas of the assembly line.
Honda’s goal with developing this business-class jet was to deliver a product with maximum interior space, minimal fuel consumption and low noise levels. The company claims it’s the fastest, roomiest and most efficient aircraft in its class. Two features that help deliver these promises are a lightweight composite fuselage and the unique placement of its engines. Unlike other aircraft they’re mounted on pods above the wings.
The company may have started producing its first commercial HondaJet, but they are not ready to start selling them just yet. They’ve already performed an exhaustive battery of tests on the aircraft but it still requires certification by the Federal Aviation Administration before any can be delivered to customers.
Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).
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what a fabo piece of equipment, oh Santa a blue one please