Toyota Presents Group Vision - Toyoda Takes Charge: "I Am Steering the Change"
In a significant move, the Toyota Group held a press conference on January 30 at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology in Nagoya. The occasion marked the unveiling of a new vision for the Group's future direction, "Inventing our path forward, together."
The vision was shared with chairmen, presidents, and frontline leaders of Toyota Group companies, a decision that was initially planned for February 14 but was brought forward due to the recent situation of Group companies.
Chairman Akio Toyoda, in his address, emphasized the importance of broadening the concept of mobility so that every person can enjoy freedom of movement. This commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and addressing global environmental challenges is encapsulated in the phrase “Create Mobility for All.”
Embracing this vision, Toyota employees are expected to adopt several key attitudes. These include a commitment to environmental sustainability, innovative and responsible technological development, values of inclusion, courage, and determination, and a dedication to continuous improvement and excellence.
The Group's focus on sustainable mobility is reflected in its aims for carbon neutrality and net positive environmental impact by 2050, its support for various technologies like hybrid, plug-in hybrid, electric, and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, and its values inspired by collaborations with events like the Special Olympics.
The Toyota Group's lineage dates back to the establishment of Toyoda Shoten in 1895. Sakichi Toyoda, the founder, invented the Toyoda wooden hand loom in 1890, and his grandson, Kiichiro Toyoda, started getting actively involved in the business in the 1930s, aiming to revolutionize Japanese industry.
The Group has faced challenges in the past, notably during the 2008 financial crisis, when they experienced financial difficulties for the first time in company history. However, with the help of partners, Toyota has rebuilt the company to the point where it can be called a carmaker again.
Chairman Toyoda expressed deepest apologies for the inconvenience and concern caused by successive irregularities at Hino Motors, Daihatsu, and Toyota Industries. He believes that the same thing that happened to Toyota back then is currently happening to other Group companies. During the recalls in 2009, Chairman Toyoda took full responsibility for Toyota's past, present, and future.
In conclusion, the Toyota Group's future direction is one of inclusive, sustainable mobility for all, with employees embracing environmental responsibility, innovation, inclusiveness, and a strong work ethic toward excellence.
The press conference revealed that Chairman Akio Toyoda aims to lead Toyota Group companies towards a vision of "Create Mobility for All," focusing on inclusivity, sustainability, and addressing global environmental challenges. In the spirit of this vision, the Group's emphasis lies on finance strategies that prioritize environmental sustainability, responsible technological development in business, and a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.
