TOKYO – Toyota’s former president, Tatsuro Toyoda, who helped the Japanese auto giant establish a foothold in North America, has died at the age of 88, the company said Saturday.
Toyoda, an uncle of current Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda, died of pneumonia on 30 December , the firm said in a statement.
His funeral has already been held and was attended by close relatives, but Toyota said it plans to hold a separate farewell ceremony.
Toyoda joined the company – founded by his father Kiichiro Toyoda – in 1953, and in 1984 became the first president of a new firm formed by Toyota and General Motors.
The California-based joint venture was part of Toyota’s push to expand production and increase its share in the North American market. The plant produced nearly 8 million vehicles until its closure in 2010, according to the company.
Toyoda served as Toyota president between 1992 and 1995.
– Nampa-AFP
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
