Honda's Anna Engine Plant Celebrates Four Decades of Innovation and Production Excellence

Honda's Anna Engine Plant Celebrates 40 Years of Excellence

On July 22, 2025, Honda proudly marks the 40th anniversary of the Anna Engine Plant (AEP), recognized as the largest Honda auto engine facility globally. Located in Anna, Ohio, this monumental plant has seen remarkable growth since it produced its first engine on this date in 1985, thanks to a cumulative investment of $2.9 billion. The AEP’s sprawling footprint of 2.8 million square feet allows for the production of over 1.1 million engines yearly, showcasing a commitment to innovation and efficiency.

A Legacy of Engine Production

Over the past four decades, the Anna Engine Plant has successfully manufactured more than 32.5 million engines across diverse categories including automobiles and powersports products. The facility kicked off its journey by producing motorcycle engines before seamlessly transitioning to automobile engines in 1986, when it introduced the 4-cylinder engine for the Honda Civic. The AEP has diversified its production range to include V6 and inline 4-cylinder engines, seen in popular models like the Honda Accord, CR-V, and the Acura TLX.

One of the standout innovations produced at AEP is the 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine powering Honda's hybrid models. This, along with the 190-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, encapsulates Honda's focus on performance and fuel efficiency. The plant delivered notable powertrains, such as the 315 hp engine for the Civic Type R while also being integral in providing critical components like cylinder sleeves and camshafts for various Honda engines.

Embracing the Future with Flexible Manufacturing

The Anna Engine Plant embodies Honda’s strategic pivot towards flexible manufacturing, a methodology allowing for the simultaneous production of internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrid powertrains, and all-electric motors on the same lines. This flexibility signifies a commitment to meeting evolving market demands and supporting a diverse lineup of vehicles tailored to customer preferences.

As a vital component of Honda's Electric Vehicle (EV) Hub, AEP is pioneering new processes in the production of aluminum EV battery cases. This includes embracing advanced techniques such as megacasting, friction stir welding, and Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) machining to ensure the manufacturing of high-quality electric components alongside conventional engines. Honda anticipates starting EV production in 2026, which will further enhance the plant's role in Honda’s electrified future.

Contributing to Local Economy and Workforce

Since its humble beginnings with a mere 94 production associates, AEP has expanded to employ approximately 2,900 individuals. The plant has undergone transformations that allowed it to become a model of integrated powertrain manufacturing, with operations ranging from casting to assembly. Honda's ongoing investments underscore its dedication to modernizing facilities and adopting new technologies, thereby bolstering the local economy in Ohio.

Honda's commitment to investing in its manufacturing processes has not only provided jobs but has also reinforced Ohio's position as a cornerstone of Honda's North American operations. Currently, Honda employs over 12,000 associates across five manufacturing facilities in Ohio, which collectively represent a staggering capital investment of $13 billion.

A Bright Future Ahead

With future plans for EV production, Honda's Anna Engine Plant is set to continue its legacy of innovation while adapting to the ever-changing automotive landscape. The announcement of investments to upgrade existing plants for EV production, coupled with collaboration with LG Energy Solution for a joint EV battery facility, reflects a comprehensive strategy to embrace the transition towards sustainable mobility.

The Anna Engine Plant's milestone anniversary epitomizes not just four decades of production excellence but also a sustainable vision for the future. As Honda forges ahead, it remains committed to producing high-quality engines that cater to customer demands while believing in the skill and dedication of its associates to drive innovation and success beyond 2025.