History

Toyota Past

Toyota's origins are rooted in innovation. The company's history goes back to 1918, when Sakichi Toyoda revolutionised the Japanese weaving industry with the invention of the world's first automatic loom.

Proceeds from the sale of the production rights to a British company enabled Sakichi Toyoda's son, Kiichiro, to invest in the development of automotive technology. Toyota's first passenger car was launched in 1936. One year later, the Toyota Motor Company was born.

Since that time, Toyota has built one vehicle every 20 seconds, with a cumulative production total in excess of 90 million units. The export of vehicles from Japan started in the 1950s. 1959 saw the start of production in other countries, and Toyota cars are now produced in 26 countries around the world.


Toyota Future Worldwide

Toyota leads the world in automotive innovation. 5% of annual net sales (over £2 billion per year) is invested in new technology and the development of new products - more than any other manufacturer.

Toyota is playing a leading role in the development of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) technology, such as automatic pilot systems. In addition, 50% of all engine technology research and development is focused on the search for alternative fuel sources, reinforcing the positive links between Toyota and the environment.