The devastating Earthquake followed by Tsunami in Japan has taken its toll on the country’s automobile industry as well. One of Japan’s largest car maker, Honda Motors, which announced the introduction of its small car Brio in India on March 17, has postponed its plan to do so, the company announced in a statement.
“In light of the recent devastating earthquake that hit Japan, causing massive damage to life and property, Honda Siel Cars India has postponed the Honda Brio India preview event scheduled to be held on March 17, 2011,” the Honda Motors said in a statement.
Honda Motors had unveiled prototype version of new small car Honda Brio in Thailand International Motor Expo, last year. The company informed then that this was the near production version of the Brio which will begin production in March 2011. Honda is going to make this car in India with 80% local components in 2011 as well. The car will carry a price tag of below Rs. 5 Lakh.
On March 11, an earthquake measuring 8.9 on Richter’s scale hit Japan followed by a devastating tsunami, which swept away houses, overturned ships, vehicles and set ablaze several buildings, including a petrochemical plant, leaving thousands of people dead or unaccounted for.
“Honda Siel Cars India extends heartfelt condolences to all those who have suffered or lost their near and dear ones in this tragic disaster and stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Japan,” the company said.
