Toyota: Portrait of An Automotive Icon (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798291718087)

From its surprising origins in the world of automated textile looms to its current status as a global automotive titan, this book chronicles the dramatic history of Toyota. Discover the story of founder Sakichi Toyoda, the "King of Japanese Inventors," whose innovations in weaving laid the financial and philosophical groundwork for the entire company. Follow his son, Kiichiro, as he pivots the family enterprise into the nascent world of automobiles, establishing a unique corporate culture built on the principles of kaizen (continuous improvement) and a deep respect for people. This is the story of how a relentless focus on eliminating waste and building quality into every step of the process grew from a small workshop into a manufacturing revolution that would change the world.

Explore the stories behind the iconic vehicles that defined entire market segments and built an empire. From the initial, humbling failure of the Toyopet Crown in America to the triumphant success of the Corona and the world-conquering Corolla, learn how Toyota methodically built its unshakeable reputation for quality, durability, and reliability. Journey to the most inhospitable corners of the globe with the indestructible Land Cruiser, and witness how the 1970s oil crisis transformed the company from a niche import brand into a dominant global force, making its fuel-efficient cars the right products at the right time. The rise of the Camry to become America's best-selling sedan is a masterclass in understanding the customer.

This definitive portrait also explores the company's wild, passionate side that exists alongside its sensible, conservative image. Uncover the secret, high-stakes project that led to the creation of Lexus, a brand built to challenge and surpass the best German luxury cars. Delve into the multi-billion-dollar gamble on hybrid technology that resulted in the culture-shifting Prius, establishing Toyota as the undisputed leader in electrification for decades. Feel the passion of the Akio Toyoda era, where a "master driver" at the helm declared "no more boring cars," leading to the creation of the Gazoo Racing (GR) performance brand and legendary machines like the reborn Supra and the exotic, hand-built LFA supercar.

Finally, look toward the future as the company navigates the seismic shift to the electric age, approaching the challenge with a uniquely multifaceted strategy that includes hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery electrics, and hydrogen fuel cells. The story culminates with a vision as audacious as any in its history: the Woven City, a prototype city of the future being built at the base of Mount Fuji. This "living laboratory" for mobility, AI, and robotics is a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation that has defined Toyota for over a century, bringing its journey from textile looms full circle.