To say that Eiji Toyoda gave his whole heart to the Toyota company is somewhat of an understatement. The late Toyota President and Chairman Eiji Toyoda was well-known for his enormous contributions in getting the Japanese automaker's name into the North American market. Today, we celebrate his life after he passed away earlier this month at the age of 100, just days after celebrating his birthday.
Toyoda began his journey with Toyota with his cousin, Toyota's founder Kiichiro Toyoda. He served the company for 69 years. In 1967, he earned the title of presidency. He held this position for 15 years and until 1992 he served as Toyota's chairman.
The man had a forward-thinking personality. He helped make Toyota the big name it is today in North America, he helped launch Toyota's luxury extension, Lexus, and he pushed a hybrid-electric car program. As a result, we now have super fuel efficient options like the Prius Plug-in.
"Ever since Toyota's establishment in 1937, I have been involved in this wonderful business, and as long as my engine keeps running, I intend to give back as much as I can for the industry's further development," Toyoda said in 1994 when he inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Michigan. He was the second Japanese recipient of this, only after the founder of Honda.1
Hats off to Toyoda. He served his company with the utmost passion.
Come see what Toyoda's influence in our new Toyota lineup. DCH Toyota of Torrance wouldn't be where we are today without him! We're located in Torrance, CA, so if you're nearby, come by for a visit. We're happy to assist you!
Source:1 http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/18/business/global/eiji-toyoda-promoter-of-toyota-way-dies-at-100.html
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