The Economy

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

May 11, 2011

Automaker: North American production will reach 70% of normal levels in June.

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"

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.