5 Fun Facts About Toyota

1. Toyota Was Originally Named Toyoda

The original company founded by Sakichi Toyoda was named “Toyoda.” However, the name was later changed to “Toyota” as it was easier to write in Japanese, requiring only 8 strokes instead of 10. Eight is considered a lucky number in Japanese culture, which influenced the decision to adopt the name “Toyota.”

2. Volkswagen Made A Truck Based On The Toyota Hilux

Volkswagen was so impressed by the Toyota Hilux that they decided to build their own pickup truck based on it. In the 1980s, Toyota agreed to allow Volkswagen to produce their own Hiluxes in their factory, which were then branded as the Volkswagen Taro. However, after eight years of production, sales of the Taro fell short of both manufacturers’ expectations, leading to its discontinuation.

3. Toyota Was On The Verge Of Bankruptcy

Despite being established in 1937, Toyota’s success was not a given. In fact, the automaker was near bankruptcy during its early years, producing just a few hundred trucks annually in the 1950s. Demand suffered, particularly following World War II. However, the US government was soon to play a role in revitalizing the company. In the midst of the 1950s’ Korean War, Toyota was contracted by the US government to manufacture over 5,000 vehicles, which significantly brought down their own costs and helped Toyota regain its position in the market.

4. Toyota Was The First Motor Company To Produce 10 Million Cars Annually

Toyota accomplished this goal a few years back in 2013 when they sold over 10 million cars in one year. This fun fact just proves how popular Toyota has been for quite some time.

5. Toyota Has Been The Best Selling Auto Brand in Australia For Over 15 Years

The Toyota brand has always been huge in Australia as it has been a top-selling auto brand for over 25 years, with 18 of those years being the #1 selling brand in a row!