World’s biggest carmaker is none other than Toyota

KUALA LUMPUR: Back in 2020, Toyota grabbed the spot of the world’s top-selling automaker after beating Volkswagen with a total global sales of 9.5 million units. Well, in 2021 again, the Japanese automaker holds its crown proudly. Toyota sold a total of 10.5 million vehicles last year, including units sold by its affiliates Lexus, Daihatsu Motors, and Hino Motors, which is 10.1% more than the last year. 

Germany's Volkswagen AG, Toyota’s nearest rival managed to sell 8.9 million units in the same period. This is not only 5% less than the previous year, but it is the conglomerate’s lowest sales figures in 10 years. The main reason behind the difference is obvious the COVID-19 as the largest footprint of the Volkswagen Group is in Europe which witnessed prolonged lockdowns and shop closures during the period. 

Well, the victory of Toyota is important as almost all the car manufacturers also faced production and delivery issues last year due to the global semiconductor shortage. But it seems the Japanese automaker managed this crisis better and gained an edge over its rivals.

However, if we talk about the world’s most valuable car company, the title is still with the American EV automaker Tesla. At present, the brand is enjoying strong demand not only in the US but also in European markets. Toyota, on the other hand, is planning hard for this segment as well, it will soon introduce battery-powered vehicles in the market.

Last month, the Japanese auto giant unveiled a slew of 15 new electric car concepts. These are a part of the company’s upcoming 30 EVs. including Toyota and Lexus brands. It aims to launch these EVs by 2030 for achieving carbon neutrality by 2035.

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