"After a span of two years, Akio Toyoda reveals his thoughts following the declaration of his 2023 leadership transition"
In a historic move, Toyota Times has made public for the first time an interview with Akio Toyoda, filmed back in January 2023, just after he announced his transition from President to Chairman of Toyota. This candid conversation offers a unique perspective on his 14-year tenure as the head of the automotive giant.
The interview, which was a special Toyota Times News live broadcast, provides a rare look back at Toyoda's time as President, a period marked by adversity and loneliness, as he reveals struggles he has not discussed elsewhere. Toyoda assumed the role of President in 2009, a time when the company was grappling with numerous challenges.
During the interview, Toyoda discusses his efforts to bring the essence of Toyota back to the company, a mission he undertook with determination and passion. His leadership has been instrumental in steering Toyota through turbulent times, and his vision has been pivotal in shaping the company's direction.
Recent discussions and interviews involving Toyoda have highlighted several key themes. As Chairman of the Automobile Business & Culture Association of Japan, Toyoda has expressed a vision to promote cars as a source of pride in Japanese culture. He has also shown skepticism about the environmental benefits of electric vehicles (EVs), suggesting that hybrids might be a more practical and greener option. Toyoda emphasises the broader environmental impacts of EV production and energy sourcing.
Despite past challenges, Toyoda has regained significant shareholder support. At Toyota's recent annual meeting, he secured almost 97% of voted shares, a testament to the trust and confidence he has earned from the company's stakeholders.
The interview with Toyoda was initially sealed away for two years but is now being posted for public consumption. This candid conversation offers insights into Toyoda's personal feelings in the moment of his announcement, providing a unique and intimate look at one of the most influential figures in the automotive industry.
The interview with Akio Toyoda delves into his leadership role in Toyota's business, revealing how he employed passion and determination to bring the company back to its essence during challenging times. As Chairman of the Automobile Business & Culture Association of Japan, Toyoda advocates for cars as a source of pride in Japanese culture and questions the environmental benefits of electric vehicles, advocating for a more practical and greener approach with hybrids, while also addressing broader environmental impacts.
