Honda celebrates the start of production for new Pioneer 1000 Deluxe
On April 24 at its South Carolina Manufacturing facility (SCM), approximately 700 associates were on hand as American Honda commenced production on the 2026 Pioneer 1000 Deluxe, its recently introduced multipurpose side-by-side.
Available in three-seat and five-seat configurations, this latest Pioneer 1000 Deluxe features comprehensive updates, highlighted by the adoption of throttle-by-wire technology that delivers enhanced control in both work and recreational settings. Proven Honda technologies remain at the core of the platform, including an automatic dual-clutch transmission.
The Pioneer 1000 Deluxe is made in the U.S., with production in Timmonsville, South Carolina, using domestic and globally sourced parts. The model is planned in Georgia and developed in Ohio.
“Today is a proud moment for South Carolina Manufacturing, for our Powersports business and, most importantly, for the associates who made this day possible,” says Travis Lee, SCM Site Lead. “The product we are celebrating today represents the next chapter of our side-by-side business, and once again that chapter is being written right here in Timmonsville.”
Honda says its SCM associates have played a critical role in the company’s global powersports business since launching the Honda Foreman 400 ATV in 1998. The plant later added ATV engine production and the AquaTrax personal watercraft, before beginning side-by-side vehicle production in 2013.
“We are not just building products here … we are setting the standard for quality, safety and execution that customers around the world expect from Honda,” Travis Lee.
“That happens because of the dedication of our associates across all our teams, and every support function that touched this vehicle. Launching a new model takes discipline … it takes collaboration … and it takes pride in doing things the right way, every day. The Pioneer 1000 Deluxe reflects all that effort.”
Today, SCM boasts an 850,000-square-foot facility, employs more than 1,000 associates and serves as the exclusive global production home of Honda side-by-side vehicles, including the Pioneer multipurpose series and Talon sport models. Over the past quarter century, SCM has invested more than $460 million in its operations, and its associates have produced nearly 3.9 million powersports products.
Honda says the Pioneer 1000 Deluxe is expected to hit dealerships in May.
