A major fire has torn through a Montesa Honda production facility in Spain, forcing the evacuation of 150 staff and no doubt causing lasting production delays and significant stock losses. 

The blaze broke out on Friday, June 5, at around 3:00pm, causing serious damage to the Honda Motor Europe Logistics España facilities, located within the Montesa Honda complex in Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, Barcelona.  

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, however, the warehouse, covering approximately 20,000 square metres, was completely destroyed by the flames – with it, we expect several unique and irreplaceable trials machines will be among the inventory lost. 

The incident is said to have generated a large column of smoke that was visible from several points across the Vallès area and from the nearby A-7 motorway, quickly alerting local residents and drivers in the area.  

The Bombers de la Generalitat received the emergency call shortly before 3:00pm and deployed up to 30 fire crews to the site. According to the fire service, the blaze was stabilised and brought under control at around 8:30pm.  

Montesa Honda issued a brief statement on Friday afternoon: “We can confirm that today, July 5, at approximately 3:00 pm, a fire broke out at Honda Motor Europe Logistics España, located at the Montesa Honda facilities in Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, Barcelona. 

“Fortunately, emergency procedures were activated quickly and effectively, and there have been no injuries. 

“We are still assessing the extent of the material damage. We appreciate your support and understanding. Thank you very much.” 

Pending a full official assessment from the company, everything points to the material damage being very significant. Since the 2009 restructuring, these facilities have mainly housed logistics operations, including the storage of motorcycles and spare parts, as well as units ready for sale. 

In addition, the Montesa Honda complex carries major historical and sporting importance within the world of trial, as it is home to the production of the Montesa Cota 301RR, Cota 4RT260R, 4RIDE and Honda RTL models, as well as being the operations centre for the Repsol HRC TrialGP team. 

 

Credit photos: Bombers de la Generalitat