TOKYO, Japan
Honda receives its second IEEE Milestone certification, honoring the P2 robot’s historic contribution to humanoid robotics and human-robot interaction.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that its P2 humanoid autonomous bipedal robot has been recognized as an IEEE Milestone, honoring the robot’s historic role in advancing humanoid robotics and bipedal locomotion technology.
The recognition marks Honda’s second IEEE Milestone certification, following its 2017 recognition for the Honda Electro Gyrocator. A commemorative ceremony was held at the Honda Wako Building, where an IEEE Milestone plaque was presented by Toshio Fukuda, Professor Emeritus at Nagoya University and the first Asian to serve as IEEE president.
Unveiled in 1996, Honda’s P2 was developed as the second prototype in Honda’s humanoid autonomous bipedal robot research program, which began in 1986. At a time when much of the global robotics field focused on quadruped and wheeled robots, P2 demonstrated a human-sized body, integrated architecture and real-time control technology capable of stable, human-like walking.
The IEEE Milestone recognition highlights Honda’s development of unique bipedal locomotion control technology and the company’s role in expanding the concept of robots beyond industrial applications. P2 helped establish a new direction for robots as intelligent mobile agents capable of social and supportive roles, including personal assistance.
Honda (TSE: 7267) said the technologies cultivated through P2 later contributed to ASIMO, introduced in 2000, which achieved smoother and more natural walking closer to human gait. The research also influenced several advanced technologies now used across Honda’s innovation efforts, including remotely controlled avatar robots, multi-fingered robotic hands, eVTOLs and space robotics.
“We are deeply grateful for the prestigious IEEE Milestone certification awarded to our humanoid autonomous bipedal robot, P2,” said Toshihiro Mibe, director and president of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. “We also extend our sincere thanks to all those involved who overcame numerous difficulties together to reach this certification, as well as to everyone who provided warm support.”
Mibe added that the certification reflects not only the robot’s level of technical completion but also the spirit of challenge embraced by Honda engineers. “Honda will continue to take on challenging technological developments with the aim of providing everyone with the joy of expanding their life possibilities,” he said.
The IEEE Milestone program was established in 1983 to recognize major historical achievements in electrical, electronic, information and communications engineering that have been in development for more than 25 years and have contributed significantly to industry and society. As of March 2026, 293 milestones had been recognized worldwide.
Honda said it will continue advancing robotics research and development with the goal of benefiting people and expanding human potential through technology.
About Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is a global mobility company engaged in the development, production and sale of motorcycles, automobiles, power products, aircraft and advanced mobility technologies. The company continues to pursue innovation across robotics, electrification, aviation and next-generation mobility solutions.
Last modified: April 30, 2026
