MARYSVILLE, Ohio — At the new Honda museum, a supercar is to your right and robots seem to be around every corner.
And, just when you might think this is too exotic, there is a minivan.
The automaker recently gave a preview of the Honda Heritage Center in Marysville, about 25 miles northwest of Columbus. The museum will open to the public on Jan. 5.
“Today is an exciting time for Honda because of what this event represents: a deep connection between the past, present, and future,” said Tom Shoupe, chief operating officer of Honda of America Manufacturing.
The museum is part of a complex that includes a technical training center for employees and administrative offices. It is across the street from the Marysville assembly plant, where Honda builds the Accord and other vehicles.
Visitors to the museum can see sports cars and race cars, including a preliminary version of the Acura NSX supercar, which is being built in Marysville and will go on sale next year.
There are several manufacturing robots, plus a version of ASIMO, Honda’s humanoid robot.
The centerpiece is a circular display of engines and transmissions. At the center of the circle is a disassembled engine, with parts hanging in the air from wires, like a diagram come to life.
“There’s nothing like this, an intersection of heritage with the future,” said Eric Burkland, president of the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, as he looked at one of the displays. “It stimulates excitement about manufacturing today.”
The museum also has key vehicles from Honda’s history, including some of the first motorcycles and cars, with an emphasis on models made in Ohio.
The company has been making vehicles in the state since 1979 and has about 14,000 employees here.
Takuji Yamada, the company’s top executive in North America, offered thoughts on the company and its museum at the ceremony.
“Honda has a unique position in the market,” he said. “We have automobiles, motorcycles, power equipment, even robots and airplanes. ... And I’m happy to see that represented here in the heritage center.”
The complex is 160,000 square feet and cost $35 million.
Starting on Jan. 5, the public can call 937-644-6888 for information on the Honda Heritage Center, including hours of operation and to schedule visits. Tours will be conducted by reservation only.
First Published December 26, 2014, 5:00 a.m.
