For more than 75 years, Toyota has been making history as one of the top automakers in the world. The journey began in 1924, when Sakichi Toyoda invented the automatic loom. While the looms were built on a very small production line, by 1929, they were sold to a British company that began generating capital to develop the automobile.
In 1933, the production of Toyota automobiles began as a division of Toyota Automatic Loom Works. This company was committed to producing automobiles under the direction of Kiichiro Toyoda, the founder’s son. Just two years later, the A1 passenger car and G1 were produced, followed by the Model AA, the first passenger car. In 1937, Toyota Motor Co. became independent.
1940s to 1970s
During this time period, Toyota sold its smaller vehicles as Toyopet, a nickname given because of the car’s small size. Once Toyota entered the U.S. market in 1957, consumers were not fond of the name. As a result, Toyopet was dropped in that market, although it continued in others for several more years.
1980s to Now
Because of the 1973 oil crisis, American consumers searched for smaller cars that offered better fuel efficiency, boosting Toyota’s sales. In 1982, Toyota Motor Company and Toyota Motor Sales merged, becoming the Toyota Motor Corporation. Shortly after, Toyota and General Motors entered into a joint venture. At the Fremont, California, manufacturing plant, the luxury division Lexus launched in 1989.
Up until this time, Toyota has focused primarily on compact cars. In the 1990s, it branched out by adding larger and more luxurious vehicles. Included were the T100, Tundra, Camry, and others. In 1997, Toyota started production on the Prius, the world’s best-selling hybrid.
In 2002, Toyota entered a Formula One works team, while establishing joint ventures with Peugeot and Citroen, both French motoring companies. One year later, Toyota produced cars in France. By 2007, the Tundra was updated. Produced in two U.S. plants, this truck was named “Truck of the Year.” That same year, the Camry was named “Car of the Year.”
Since that time, Toyota has manufactured many revolutionary vehicles and formed multiple businesses. This brand is now trusted by millions of people from all over the world. Today, Toyota is the world’s market leader as far as sales of hybrid electric vehicles and a highly respected company for compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and trucks.
Buying the right Toyota is a big decision. At Thomasville Toyota in Thomasville, Georgia, we are committed to making the buying process easier. To look at different cars or take a test drive, we invite you to visit us.
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