Toyota is the world's largest automobile manufacturer, with a history spanning several decades. Let's delve into Toyota's journey to becoming the leading name in the automotive industry.
Early History
Toyota Motor Corporation originated as a division of Toyoda Automatic Loom Works in Japan. It became an independent company in 1937 under Kiichiro Toyoda's leadership. Initially focused on producing vehicles for the Japanese military during World War II, Toyota faced the threat of closure after the war ended.
Toyota Motor Sales Co.
In 1950, Toyota established Toyota Motor Sales Co. in Japan. By 1957, it had set up Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. in Hollywood, California. Sales began in the United States in 1958 with 287 Toyopet Crown sedans and one Land Cruiser. While many buyers found the Toyopet vehicles underpowered and overpriced, leading to its discontinuation in 1961, the Land Cruiser earned a reputation as a reliable all-terrain vehicle and remained the sole Toyota model in the U.S. at that time.
Rise in Popularity
The introduction of the Toyota Corona in 1965, specifically designed for American drivers, boosted the company's sales threefold by 1966. In 1968, Toyota launched the Corolla, which has become the world's best-selling passenger car.
By 1975, Toyota had overtaken Volkswagen as the top import brand in the United States. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, Toyota continued to dominate the automotive market. In 1987, Toyota established Lexus as a separate sales channel and began selling luxury vehicles under the Lexus brand in 1989.
In 1998, Toyota introduced the Tundra, its first full-sized pickup truck, and the Prius, the first mass-produced gasoline/electric hybrid vehicle.
In 2003, Toyota launched the Scion brand, appealing to a younger audience with its innovative marketing strategies. Toyota continued to expand in the 2000s and 2010s, producing popular models such as the Tacoma and the Highlander.
Today, Toyota stands as the largest vehicle manufacturer globally, selling millions of vehicles each year. If you are interested in a Toyota, we offer an excellent selection at our Toyota dealership. Contact us today to learn more about the Toyota vehicles available at our dealership.
