Toyota 2008 Annual Report Download - page 15

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•Annual Report 2008 • TOYOTA
In the Chinese market, we will strive to provide a full lineup of models
and strengthen our production capabilities. Last year, sales of the Crown and
Corolla models manufactured at our Tianjin plant were strong. In addition,
sales of the Camry, manufactured at our Guangzhou plant were robust.
The Guangzhou plant also began production of the Yaris in May 2008.
In India, where the market is growing rapidly, we will construct a second
plant with an annual production capacity of 100 thousand vehicles.
Operations are scheduled to start in 2010, with the manufacture of a newly
developed compact car designed to meet regional needs.
Sales of Lexus brand models, Land Cruisers, and other vehicles have
been favorable in the Middle East. In the expectation that this market will
become increasingly important, we aim to further expand supply systems
after learning the precise needs of consumers in the region. Markets are also
expected to continue growing steadily in Brazil and other Central and South
American countries. To meet vigorous demand and create further
opportunities for growth in resource-rich and emerging countries, we intend
to augment local production capabilities and increase our supply capabilities
from Japan and other regions.
Q.Could you tell us a little about Toyota’s environmental efforts,
such as improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2emissions?
A.We plan to expand production of hybrid vehicles and introduce
ultra-efficient package vehicles.
Hybrid technology contributes to improved fuel efficiency, reduced CO2
output and cleaner exhaust emissions. The cumulative total of Toyota’s
hybrid vehicle sales reached 1.5 million in June 2008. Moving forward, we
aim to further expand our hybrid lineup and achieve annual sales of one
million hybrid vehicles by the early 2010s. At the same time, we will continue
to improve hybrid system performance and fuel efficiency, and strive
to create lighter, more compact vehicles while cutting costs. Our goal is
to equip all of our models with hybrid systems by about 2020.
Meanwhile, the iQ ultra-efficient package vehicle is scheduled to be
launched in Japan and Europe in 2008. Marking a radical change in vehicle
packaging, this innovative, environmentally friendly vehicle is poised to
create a new market. Measuring less than three meters in length yet offering
a spacious interior, the iQ was specifically designed to reduce CO2emissions
and realize outstanding fuel efficiency. To revitalize the market, we plan
to continue to introduce similar demand-creating products that boast new
value-added features.
Q.What is Toyota’s medium-to-long term vision and growth strategy?
A.Our goal is to be a sustainable company that contributes to global
sustainable development through our business activities.
We believe that Toyota must conduct business in a way that contributes
to the world as much as possible. More specifically, we are pursuing
sustainability in research and development, manufacturing, and nurturing
Measures for Future Growth
(Thousands of units)
0
500
1,500
1,000
Overseas
Domestic
CY
1,295
902
393
’03’02 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07
Cumulative Hybrid Vehicle Sales
Performance Messages from the Management &
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As of the end of December