Toyota, one of the most renowned car brands in the world, has a rich history of innovation and achievements that go beyond merely manufacturing cars. Founded in 1937 in Japan by Kiichiro Toyoda, the company has distinguished itself not only for the quality and durability of its vehicles but also for its pioneering approach to production techniques, such as the Toyota Production System, which revolutionized the global automotive industry.
In addition to its technological and operational contributions, Toyota is known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, from the introduction of the Prius, the first mass-produced hybrid, to its ongoing efforts to develop hydrogen and electric vehicles.
In this text, we will explore some fascinating curiosities about Toyota, revealing surprising aspects of its history and global impact.
1 – STARTED IN THE 1930s
The Toyota AA marked the automaker’s debut in the passenger car market. Between 1936 and 1942, only 1,404 units of this model were produced.
With a 3.4-liter, 6-cylinder engine producing 62 horsepower, the AA was notable as a quite competent family vehicle. Interestingly, many experts classify it as an improved version of American cars of the time.
2 – TOYOTA HAD TEXTILE ORIGINS
Toyota originated in the textile industry. In 1924, Sakichi Toyoda, known for his success in the production of spinning and weaving machines, created the Toyoda Model G automatic loom, a significant innovation for its time.
This technological advancement was crucial for the establishment of Toyoda Automatic Loom Works Ltd., which later evolved into the present-day Toyota Industries Corporation.
3 – TOYODA OR TOYOTA?
The automobile division of Toyota was established by Kiichiro Toyoda, the son of Sakichi Toyoda. Although the original surname was Toyoda, the company was renamed Toyota following a public contest to define a new brand identity.
The change from “d” to “t” resulted in a spelling with only 8 strokes in Japanese, instead of 10, which brings greater simplicity.
Additionally, the number 8 is associated in Japanese culture with prosperity and good fortune.
4 – THE LOGO
Toyota’s logo is a notable example of design that combines simplicity with depth of meaning. Launched in 1989 to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary, the logo consists of three interlinked ellipses that form a distinctive and recognizable symbol. Each ellipse represents a fundamental aspect of the brand: one symbolizes Toyota’s commitment to its customers, another reflects customer satisfaction, and the third represents technological advancement and innovation.
The design of the ellipses also reflects the company’s forward-looking vision, integrating the values of quality and reliability that Toyota promotes.
Additionally, the ellipses create a sense of movement and fluidity, symbolizing the brand’s dynamism. Each of the letters in the name “Toyota” is subtly integrated into the rings of the logo, demonstrating the connection between the company’s identity and its visual symbol.
The British newspaper “The Independent” ranked Toyota’s logo as “one of the best-designed”.
5 – THE CONCEPT OF “JIDOKA”
The Toyota production process operates by manufacturing one car at a time, prioritizing efficiency and agility while maintaining the quality and requirements demanded by the customer.
To achieve this, the concept of “Jidoka” is used, a Japanese term that Toyota has incorporated as one of the essential pillars of the Toyota Production System, also known as Lean Manufacturing. This concept focuses on automation with a human touch and early problem detection to ensure production quality.
With jidoka, machines and systems automatically halt production upon detecting any issue, such as quality defects, assembly errors, or process irregularities. This prevents the mass production of defective items, reduces waste, and ensures that only high-quality products are delivered to customers.
6 – THIRD LARGEST GLOBAL MANUFACTURER
The year 2011 was marked by major celebrations for Toyota. During this period, the Japanese automaker achieved the status of the third-largest automobile manufacturer globally, behind only GM and the Volkswagen Group.
Considering that the company started its journey by manufacturing equipment for the textile industry, this achievement is truly impressive.
7 – THE COMPANY NEARLY WENT BANKRUPT DURING THE KOREAN WAR
During the Korean War, Toyota was on the brink of bankruptcy. With the Japanese economy still recovering from World War II, demand for certain products had dropped dramatically. In 1950, the company managed to produce only 300 trucks.
To help revive the Japanese brand and reduce war expenses, the U.S. government placed an order for 5,000 trucks with Toyota, which was crucial in preventing the automaker’s bankruptcy.
8 – A CITY NAMED AFTER TOYOTA
The success of Toyota led the Japanese government to rename a city in its honor. The city, previously known as Koromo, was renamed Toyota on January 1, 1959, in recognition of the Japanese automaker, which was the area’s main employer.
It is interesting to note that this city is home to a significant Brazilian community.
9 – LUXURY PRODUCTS
It is well known that Toyota owns Lexus, its luxury division. However, what not everyone knows is that the group also controls brands such as Daihatsu and Hino, which are quite popular in Japan.
Additionally, Toyota has investments in Fuji Industries, which is the parent company of Subaru.
10 – ONE OF THE MOST PROFITABLE PRODUCTS IN HISTORY
Toyota produces some of the most durable vehicles in the world. In fact, they are so durable that about 80% of the brand’s cars sold 20 years ago are still on the roads today.
In conclusion, Toyota stands out not only for its quality and innovation but also for its unique approach to production and management. From pioneering the Toyota Production System, which revolutionized the industry with concepts like Jidoka and Just-in-Time, to its commitment to sustainability and technological innovation, the brand has been a model of efficiency and adaptation.
Its history is marked by a continuous pursuit of excellence, allowing it to face challenges and remain at the forefront of the global automotive market.
Toyota is not just a vehicle manufacturer; it is a symbol of constant evolution and an inspiring example of how integrating solid principles with innovation can lead to lasting success.
As it moves into the future, Toyota continues to shape the industry with its visionary practices and commitment to quality.