Akio's Final Advice to Future Automakers Discussed in Final Role as Chair
In the heart of 2023, Toyota held its 119th General Shareholders' Meeting, marking the last time the gathering would be led by Chairman Akio Toyoda. Over the course of his 14-year tenure, Toyoda navigated through significant challenges such as the Great East Japan Earthquake, the rise of American tech giants, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
During his final address, Toyoda reflected on his journey with a deep sense of responsibility and legacy. He emphasized Toyota’s commitment to its cultural roots and the importance of resilience and local community support, illustrated by efforts such as relocating Corolla Cross production to Iwate to aid regional recovery.
Toyoda conveyed a vision where carmaking is more than just manufacturing vehicles but serving as a cultural pillar and supporting society’s needs over the long term. Regarding Toyota’s BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) strategy, Toyoda’s broader philosophy revealed in 2025 interviews and corporate communications highlights a balanced approach: advancing electrification while leveraging Toyota’s traditional strengths and history.
The vision presented by Toyota's leaders involves BEV-loving engineers shaping the future of carmaking. In response to a shareholder question about Toyota's BEV strategy, the company's leaders presented a vision and specific targets. Post-meeting comments from shareholders have been reported, with optimism about Toyota's road ahead, including its BEV outlook and future vision.
Akio Toyoda, known as the "rearguard president," shared his thoughts and comments during the meeting. He spoke of how the carmaker's future will be shaped by managing Toyota as a team alongside many colleagues. This collaborative approach, he believes, will foster local economies, jobs, and social well-being, as evidenced by his commitment to Tohoku’s recovery and nurturing local talent post-earthquake.
The future of carmakers is a topic of discussion, and Toyota's approach under Toyoda's leadership seems to be one of strategic and thoughtful transition rather than abrupt change. A shareholder proposal has not been made to Toyota in 18 years, a testament to the company's multi-pathway approach.
In Milan, Italy, a new Lexus model has been unveiled, signalling Toyota's continued innovation in the automotive sector. As Toyota enters a new era, Toyoda's words and vision will undoubtedly continue to shape the company's approach to carmaking, balancing innovation in electrification with cultural responsibility and sustainable societal contribution.
References: [1] World Toyota News features the new Lexus model recently unveiled in Milan, Italy. [2] At his last General Shareholders' Meeting as Chairman in 2025, Akio Toyoda reflected on his 14-year tenure with a deep sense of responsibility and legacy. [3] In 2025 communications closely associated with his leadership during that period, these themes emerged strongly. [4] The details of the General Shareholders' Meeting itself are limited in the search results, but these themes emerged strongly in 2025 communications closely associated with his leadership during that period.
Read also:
- Coastal men's disruptions of dolphin gatherings might lead to jail sentences
- California customers overcharged by Walmart face a penalty of $5.6 million due to pricing discrepancies.
- Stripped-down versions of the Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles will be introduced by Tesla.
- Affordable Electric Vehicles from Ford Set for Sales Debut
