On New Year’s Day, Honda led the 129th Rose Parade presented by Honda with its float entry, “Power of Dreams Express.” The float brought together Honda’s philanthropic partner organizations and volunteers to highlight this year’s parade theme, “Making a Difference.”

Crafted from enchanted musical instruments reimagined as a three-car train, the float was a whimsical representation of Honda’s commitment to engineer good in the community. The Power of Dreams Express float featured four Honda philanthropy partners—Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), National Youth Project Using Minibikes (NYPUM), Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, and Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation—all of which focus on nationwide initiatives that address the physical and mental health of young people. Float riders included representatives from each organization, including KTLA Morning News co-anchor, Frank Buckley, on behalf of JDRF.

“The organizations who joined us on the Honda float are long-time community partners and share our belief in the power of dreams,” said Steve Morikawa, vice president of Corporate Relations & Social Responsibility, American Honda. “Together, we are committed to making a difference in the communities where we live and work.”

The float was led by a brass-inspired locomotive, followed by several marching band members riding in oversized drums. The center car was decked out with brass band pipes and transported precious cargo—four of Honda’s top community volunteers. Honda associates Cathy Hutchinson, Paul Mejia, Ruth Tsuji and Nichole Whitley earned their spots on the float in recognition for their dedication to serving the community. An ivory key clad caboose carried Honda philanthropy partners.

The vibrant float was 110 feet long and 21 feet high, punctuated by color and movement. In keeping with Honda’s commitment to the environment, it will be powered by a specially configured low-emission, hybrid powertrain. The parade’s theme banner float was powered by Honda.

In addition to the float, the 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid served as the parade’s official pace car and sound vehicle. The all-new Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, available nationwide, has the highest all-electric range rating among all plug-in hybrid sedans with its EPA range rating of 47 miles on a full charge. The car features a spacious, five-passenger cabin and comes equipped with standard Honda Sensing®.

Honda and the Tournament of Roses® have worked side by side for nearly six decades to bring entertainment and tradition to people around the world. Honda became the first-ever presenting sponsor of the event in 2011.

2018 marks the 57th year Honda has collaborated with the Tournament of Roses and its eighth year as presenting sponsor. Honda first collaborated with the Tournament of Roses in 1961 to provide two-wheeled vehicles for 1962 Parade operations. Honda has been a float participant in the Rose Parade since 1977, and has provided the official Tournament of Roses vehicle since 1994. Honda continues to supply two-wheeled vehicles and also provides side-by-side (multi-utility) vehicles for Parade operations.

As presenting sponsor, the Honda float is the first in the Rose Parade and showcases the theme. As a result, it will not be considered a commercial entry and will not compete during the judging process. Prior to becoming presenting sponsor in 2011, Honda floats won awards in 15 of the previous 16 years.