From the depths of a cotton textile mill, through the smoke of war, to the pinnacle of the global automotive market, this is Toyota's legendary path. What is the secret of the success of a company that originated as a textile mill and is now a giant in the automotive industry?Let's explore the story behind Toyota.
1. Newborn: From Textiles to Automobiles
In the 1930s, Kiichiro Toyoda saw a new possibility in his father's cotton textile factory. He was fascinated by foreign automotive technology, and after returning to China, he persuaded his father to support his dream of producing cars. In 1937, Toyota *** Co., Ltd. was officially established, and a new era began.
2. Setbacks and Transformations: War and Rebirth
In the early days, Toyota's designs were poor, the quality was uneven, and sales were not ideal. However, with the outbreak of the war, Toyota was included in the production of wartime munitions industrial goods, and this time the shift allowed Toyota to temporarily escape the crisis. But after the end of the war, the Japanese economy fell into chaos, and Toyota once again faced a huge challenge. At this time, Toyota decided to adapt to the market and develop more models, a decision that laid the foundation for Toyota's future development.
3. Lean production: the magic of TPS
During the difficult post-war period, Toyota developed a unique production method, the Tokyo Production System (TPS). This approach changes the traditional one-batch production method to a flexible production method, minimizing inventory and costs. TPS was later hailed as "lean manufacturing" and was widely imitated and applied worldwide.
Fourth, the global hegemon: the glory of Corolla and Lexus
Launched in 1967, the Corolla (Corolla) was arguably the most successful model in Toyota's history, and it was economical, comfortable, and safe, and quickly captured a large share of the global family car market. In the 80s, Toyota partnered with General Motors of the United States, and subsequently launched the high-end brand Lexus. In 2000, Lexus ranked first in premium car sales in the United States, an achievement that brought Toyota's international reputation to its zenith.
5. The Green Revolution: Prius and Hybrid Technology
In 1997, Toyota launched the world's first mass-produced hybrid model, the Prius. Its hybrid system is not only the world's top patented technology, but also achieves the purpose of energy saving and emission reduction without sacrificing practicality, reliability and durability. The success of the Prius further solidifies Toyota's leading position in environmental technology.
6. Crisis and Rebirth: Financial Turmoil and Great**
As we entered the new millennium, Toyota faced unprecedented challenges. The 2009 global financial crisis left Toyota with its first loss since World War II, and the subsequent "forklift door" incident cost it a lot. The 2011 Japan Big ** was another heavy blow to Toyota. However, in the face of difficulties, Toyota showed remarkable resilience, and by adjusting its strategy and reorganizing its resources, it was able to return to the top after just a few years.
7. The road ahead: innovation and transcendence
Standing at a new starting point in history, Toyota has not stopped moving forward. It continues to be committed to technological innovation and product upgrading, and strives to create a new situation in the fields of new energy vehicles and intelligent driving. Today, Toyota is not only an automaker, but also a technology company that leads the future of mobility.
From a cotton textile mill to an automobile kingdom, Toyota has written an immortal legend with strength and wisdom. It tells us a truth: only by constantly innovating and surpassing ourselves can we win the recognition of the market and the love of consumers. Looking to the future, we believe that Toyota will continue to create a better future with excellent products and services!