After going through a hard time, Toyota is aiming for a comeback in the international arena. The company has decided to boost its production 20 per cent by next year. Now the company aims to set a global sales record by rolling out 8.48 million vehicles in 2012.
A number of Toyota plants were destroyed in Japan during the earthquake and tsunami in March, while some were severely affected by flooding in Thailand in October. Moreover, last year, the carmakers had to recall 2.3 millions of vehicles due to accelerator pedal problems. These reasons affected the reputation of the company and reduced its rank from number one to number three.
In spite of these tragedies, analysts believe that the manufacturer’s excellent revival strategies could help in regaining its earlier position in the market. Toyota already holds a strong position in the Middle East and South East Asia. According to Al-Futtaim Motors, the official distributor of Toyota in the Emirates, the sales have already risen 19 per cent as compared to last year within UAE. It ultimately resulted in a 45 per cent growth of market share in the country.
"This is following the launch of our all new Yaris Hatchback and the release of the 2012 models such as Sequoia, Land Cruiser Prado and Fortuner," said Andrew Squires, the General Manager for national sales operations at Al-Futtaim Motors.
The Land Cruiser remains quite popular among citizens of UAE as more and more people are buying it without even selling old models. Toyota launched a limited-edition version of its Land Cruiser especially for the UAE car aficionados at the Dubai International Motor Show last month. The car was given a local touch and included UAE flag and emblems with a falcon.
Overall, a 25 per cent growth in sales of Toyota vehicles is predicted by next year, while the company expects its international sales to increase a further 6 per cent in 2013 to 8.95 million. If the company is able to meet these expectations, it will further consolidate its position in the market and regain the crown of the largest car maker.
