The Economy

Toyota Expects to Return to Full Strength by September in North America

June 16, 2011

Production levels will be back to 100% by then, automaker said.

Toyota expects its North American vehicle output to return to normal earlier than expected.

The automaker today said it anticipates vehicle production levels getting back to 100% in September, as it recovers from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that battered its supply chain.

Eight of the company's 12 North American-built models returned to 100% production on June 6, the automaker said.

Overall, Toyotas North American production has improved to more than 80% through August.

"After September, we will focus on making up lost production as much as possible," said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing, North America. "Our team members and suppliers here and in Japan have worked tirelessly to get us back to 100%, overcoming many challenges. The effort in Japan has been incredible, especially in the midst of such tragedy and devastation."

See Also:

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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.