Torrance, California – Honda will enter the first-ever hydrogen-powered fuel cell “pace car” in the 120th Rose Parade, as well as kick off Honda’s 50th anniversary of U.S. operations, on January 1, 2009 in Pasadena, California. The automaker will also have a float that is a 49-foot replica of its ASIMO humanoid robot.

During the parade, Honda’s float will evolve from an opening ceremony stage into an animated replica of ASIMO, which stands about twelve times the height of the actual robot. Called “Hats Off In Celebration”, it will be made with natural materials such as lettuce seed, rice, carnations and strawflower, all of which will be ground up for mulch following the parade.

The Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle will be accompanied by the Honda Super Cub motorcycle, the company’s first model sold in the United States.

“We’re honoured to be celebrating our first 50 years in America by continuing our participation in the Rose Parade,” said Stephen Morikawa, of American Honda Community Relations. “We’re thankful that so many customers have placed their trust in our products and services, and we are looking forward to surpassing their expectations during the next 50 years.”

Honda is one of the parade’s longest-running corporate sponsors and is the official Tournament of Roses vehicle. This year, the company will provide 115 vehicles, 166 Metropolitan scooters, and 12 generators for use by Tournament of Roses personnel.