Toyota Motor Stock Price, News & Analysis

Toyota Motor North America (TM) celebrates a major milestone with the production of its 30 millionth U.S.-assembled vehicle at the Indiana plant, specifically the all-new 2021 Toyota Sienna minivan. This achievement underscores Toyota's long-standing commitment to U.S. operations, which date back to 1986. The company pledged $13 billion in investments from 2017 to 2021, creating over 6,500 jobs and enhancing production capabilities. With nearly 4 million alternative-powered vehicles sold, TM has led in this market for 21 years, showcasing a steady increase in hybrid sales.

Toyota was awarded the most patents among automakers in 2020, securing a total of 2,819 patents, a 4% increase from 2019. This achievement underscores Toyota's commitment to innovation as it transitions into a mobility company. Since 2003, the company has received over 1,400 patents related to autonomous vehicle technology, with more than $1 million invested in emerging technology every hour globally. Over $1 billion has been allocated to R&D for automated vehicles and robotics since 2017, highlighting Toyota's robust research and development pipeline.

Toyota Motor North America (TM) will air a 60-second ad titled "Upstream" during the Big Game, featuring U.S. Paralympian Jessica Long. The ad highlights Long's inspiring journey, emphasizing themes of hope and resilience. It showcases her upbringing and achievements in swimming, reflecting Toyota's commitment to athletes. Alongside the ad, a five-second message will promote social responsibility and adherence to CDC COVID-19 guidelines. This campaign aligns with Toyota's values and aims to inspire viewers while enhancing community awareness.

On February 2, 2021, Toyota and local partners launched the Lil' Abundance campaign to combat childhood food insecurity in Philadelphia, where over 32% of children face hunger. The initiative aims to provide over 345,000 meals through Philabundance's BackPack Program, which delivers 24 meals per backpack to children in need. The program has pivoted to distribute food via community centers due to COVID-19. With increased demand and a 60% rise in food insecurity, this campaign is crucial for supporting children and their families in the area.

Toyota Motor North America (TM) launched the enhanced SmartPath retail experience, providing customers with flexible options for purchasing vehicles online or in-store. Initially piloted in 2019, SmartPath integrates dealership services with online capabilities, allowing customers to complete their car buying journey seamlessly. The platform responds to rising demand for digital transactions, accelerated by COVID-19. Over 50 dealerships are already implementing SmartPath, with plans for additional launches throughout 2021, enhancing customer transparency and control over the purchasing process.

Toyota Motor North America (TM) reported December 2020 sales of 249,601 vehicles, marking a 20.4% increase year-over-year. Total sales for 2020 were 2,112,941 vehicles, down 11.3% compared to 2019. The Toyota division sold 211,378 vehicles in December, a 22.9% increase, while Lexus division sales rose 8.2% to 38,223 vehicles. Notably, hybrid sales surged 82.8% in December, totaling 50,649 vehicles, and represented nearly 16% of TM's annual sales. Despite year-over-year declines, the company showcased record sales in hybrids and several models.

Toyota revealed two exciting vehicles for the 2021 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) event: the 2021 GR Supra Sport Top and the TRD-Sport Trailer. The Sport Top honors the legacy of the MKIV Supra with a removable roof and enhanced structural integrity. Meanwhile, the TRD-Sport Trailer, designed for overlanding, features a remote-operated scissor-lift, tent, and multiple amenities for outdoor adventures. These new creations follow the unveiling of four vehicles in a previous showcase in November, maintaining Toyota's engagement with automotive enthusiasts.

Toyota has unveiled the all-new 2021 Mirai, a premium rear-wheel drive fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) with a 30% increased EPA-estimated range of 402 miles. The Mirai, which means 'future' in Japanese, features a striking design, advanced technology, and enhanced driving performance compared to its predecessor. Built on the GA-L platform, the new model offers a spacious five-seat cabin, improved weight distribution, and is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. With a starting MSRP of $49,500 for the XLE grade, the 2021 Mirai aims to broaden its market appeal while maintaining Toyota's leadership in electrification.