Toyota is still committed to providing much needed relief efforts after the tragic earthquake and subsequent events that started March 11, 2011. In addition, the company reassures that vehicle availability and current ownership needs are being met.
Toyota makes 70% of the Lexus and Toyota models sold in the US, right here in the US. The March 11th earthquake in Japan has led to an interruption in parts manufacturing and new vehicle production, but as of 3/17/2011 the parts production will resume.
The decision to resume parts production will help ensure that current Toyota owners have their needs met with regards to service / parts to maintain their vehicles.
You can find more press releases on the Toyota website.
Updated Toyota Statement Regarding Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan
NEW YORK, NY (March 16, 2011; Posted at 3:15 PM EDT) Regarding Toyota’s North American operations, so far the impact is limited. All 13 North American vehicle and engine plants are running normally, although overtime has been curtailed for now to assure we maintain adequate inventories of parts that come from Japan. In addition, since most parts and materials for Toyota’s North American-built vehicles are provided by suppliers in North America, this helps insulate Toyota’s North American plants from production interruptions in Japan.
Regarding dealerships in the US, inventories are good with adequate levels of supply. Toyota now makes 12 different models in North America, including high-volume vehicles such as Camry, Corolla, RAV4, and Lexus RX 350, and nearly 70 percent of all Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in the U.S. are made in North America. Prius vehicles are built in Japan, and thus impacted more by the production halt there. But for now inventory levels of the Prius at U.S. dealerships are generally still adequate.
Regarding battery production in Japan, while future production plans are to be determined, only one of three hybrid battery plants in Japan sustained limited damage from the earthquake. The other two plants are located in central Japan and were not affected. The company is making every effort to minimize any long-term impact on Prius availability.
Meanwhile, Toyota employees in the U.S. are very interested in contributing to relief efforts in Japan. To make their support go further, Toyota Affiliates in the U.S. will match their personal relief donations to the American Red Cross.
This is in addition to Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan donating 300 million yen (approximately $3.75 million) to support relief efforts.
We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
