TOYOTA

The story of Toyota is a fascinating journey that begins not in the realm of automobiles, but within the textile industry. Established in 1924 by the visionary Sakichi Toyoda, Toyota started as a manufacturer of spinning and weaving machinery, achieving remarkable success with the invention of the revolutionary Toyoda Model G Automatic Loom. This innovation paved the way for the formation of Toyoda Automatic Loom Works Ltd, the precursor to the automotive giant we know today as Toyota Industries Corporation.

 

It wasn’t until 1937 that Toyota ventured into the automotive sector, initially producing vehicles intended for wartime use. Civilian passenger vehicle production followed a decade later, in 1947, marking a pivotal shift in the company’s trajectory.

 

Interestingly, the original name "Toyoda," derived from the founder's family name, was changed to "Toyota," a decision rooted in cultural significance. The new spelling, which consists of eight strokes in Katakana, symbolizes luck and fortune—a fitting homage in East Asian cultures. The local pride surrounding the company is evident in the city named Toyota, which was formerly known as Korona. In 1959, the city adopted the name “Toyota” to honor its most successful business, and today, a significant portion of its 70,000 residents are employed by the automotive giant.

 

Renowned for their durability, Toyota vehicles have earned a reputation that stands the test of time, with approximately 80% of cars sold two decades ago still actively cruising the roads today. Achievements like being the first manufacturer to produce over 10 million cars in a single year—accomplished in 2013—underscore Toyota’s status as a powerhouse in the automotive industry.

 

The company remains family-oriented, led by Akio Toyoda, a direct descendant of its founder, ensuring that the core values of innovation and excellence are carried forward. In Australia, Toyota has solidified its dominance, with its RAV4 SUV emerging as the nation's top-selling vehicle. Notably, the hybrid version outsold every competitor in August 2020, contributing to Toyota's impressive streak as the leading car brand for 17 consecutive years.

 

The statistics speak volumes; in 2019, Toyota captured an astounding 19.4% of total new car sales in Australia. Meanwhile, Toyota Motor Corporation continues to operate from its headquarters in Toyota City, Aichi, Japan, producing around 10 million vehicles annually. Closer to home, services like Torque Toyota have adapted to modern challenges, sanitizing an average of 6.6 car air conditioners every day—2,400 in the past year alone. This surge in demand reflects the heightened awareness of cleanliness and health during unprecedented times, ensuring that not only do Toyota vehicles remain reliable, but they also provide a fresh and safe driving experience.

 

The legacy of Toyota is not just about automobiles; it’s a testament to innovation, resilience, and the enduring bond between a company and its community.