The Georgia Ports Authority has won new import business from Honda. The 2015 Honda Fit, built at the carmaker’s new plant in Celaya, Mexico, is moving into the U.S. through the Port of Brunswick.
“Highlighting the truly global nature of auto manufacturing, a Japanese company building cars in Mexico has chosen Georgia’s deepwater ports as a vital gateway to the U.S.,” said GPA Executive Director Curtis Foltz. “These shipments will serve dealers in major markets across the Southeast.”
While Honda has been exporting U.S.-made vehicles through Brunswick, this is the first time Honda imports will move through a Georgia port. Honda will also deliver the 2015 Fit to East Coast markets through Davisville, R.I., and Baltimore, Md.
Dennis Manns, American Honda’s assistant vice president for sales and logistics planning, said the company is the first automotive manufacturer that has created a multi-faceted approach of distribution from Mexico to the U.S., including both rail and short sea.
“The use of short sea provides Honda with an alternative to ensure a high quality and consistent level of service to our dealers,” Manns said.
The Honda de Mexico team and American Honda have been collaborating closely to ensure a smooth launch and service to U.S. markets, he said.