Toyota's N.A. Production Coming Back Sooner Than Expected

Toyota's North American unit today said it will bring production online faster than it previously expected in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

Beginning in June, the automaker's North American production will reach approximately 70% of normal levels, up from approximately 30% in May, according to Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America Inc.

"The improvement in parts availability from Japan is the result of countermeasure activities implemented by affected suppliers," the automaker said in a news release. "Toyota will continue to evaluate production model-by-model on a monthly basis, with a goal to return to fully normalized production by late this year."

The Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, Sequoia, Sienna and Venza will return to full production in June, according to Toyota.

"Our team members and suppliers are working closely on countermeasure activities to improve the parts condition from Japan," said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America Inc. "We continue to develop solutions in order to restore 100% production as soon as possible for all of our North American-made vehicles. We appreciate the patience of our customers and dealers."

See Also:

• "Toyota Q4 Profit Slumps on Quake, Yen"