Akio's Address to the Worldwide Toyota Workforce on New Year's Day
In a New Year's video message to Toyota employees worldwide, Chairman Akio Toyoda outlined his ambitious goal for the company - to create a truly mobile society that enhances people's lives, regardless of their location. This vision aligns with Toyota's broader aim to transition from a traditional vehicle manufacturer into a provider of innovative mobility solutions that enrich daily life and uplift society.
Toyoda's vision is being brought to life through the Woven City initiative, a real-world testbed for new forms of mobility. By collaborating with diverse inventors and residents, Toyota aims to co-create and test innovations that address real-world mobility challenges, thereby accelerating the development of products and services designed to improve everyday mobility experiences.
The Chairman's ambition to transform Toyota is not a new concept. His grandfather, Kiichiro, who passed away before Akio was born, shared a similar dream. Akio Toyoda is determined to fulfil this legacy, urging boldness and exploration, much like Star Trek's Captain Kirk.
Despite Toyota's recent successes - setting new records in 2023 and now leading the industry - Akio Toyoda acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. He emphasised the importance of teamwork and collaboration on this transformation, reminding everyone of the Chinese proverb, "the taller you grow, the deeper you bow."
Akio Toyoda also expressed his appreciation for everyone's hard work in getting through an unusually demanding year. He shared that a recent dream about his grandfather Kiichiro has strengthened his resolve to continue Toyota's mission - to make ever better products and make customers happy one person at a time.
The Chairman also expressed his support for President Koji Sato's quest for new products and experiences. Akio Toyoda encourages expansion of capabilities in every region and country, emphasising the importance of doing it the Toyota way.
As Akio Toyoda embarks on his first New Year as Chairman, he is reminded of the challenges that lie ahead. But with a clear vision, a strong team, and a legacy to uphold, he is confident that Toyota will continue to move forward, creating a mobile society that helps people live better lives.
In the pursuit of Toyota's vision, Akio Toyoda endeavors to foster leadership and innovation in the finance sector, aiming to secure the necessary funds for the Woven City initiative and other mobility projects.
Under Toyoda's guidance, Toyota's business strategy extends beyond traditional vehicle manufacturing, focusing on the development and deployment of advanced mobility solutions that cater to various daily life needs and societal uplift.
