Japanese automaker Toyota actually manufactures several of its models right in the United States. In fact, it is now planning to increase its exports of American manufactured vehicles. One model in particular will be making its way to 18 different countries by 2014 throughout Latin American and the Caribbean.
The model we are referring to is one of our favorites here at Lithia Toyota of Missoula, the stylish Corolla sedan. By expanding its exports, Toyota will beat its current all-time record for exporting over 124,000 U.S-built vehicles to a total of 21 global markets last year. This was a significant jump and boosted the amount to 45 percent over the total that had been exported the previous year.
Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota's North America Region, comments on the automaker's plans to expand its exports stating, "Toyota's U.S. manufacturing operations continue to grow as a key supplier of cars and trucks for global markets, which is only possible thanks to the dedication and high-quality work of our team members here. The export of U.S.-built Corolla sedans to Latin America and the Caribbean will help to further solidify our U.S. manufacturing base."1
April of 2014 is the target period for when production will begin at Toyota's Tupelo, Mississippi facility. The automaker then hopes that during the first year of sales, over 7,500 Corolla vehicles will be exported to the new markets mentioned above.
This is certainly shaping up to be an exciting year for Toyota. We'll remain committed to bringing you all of the latest news right here on our blog, so be sure to check back in. You can also feel free to visit our Missoula, MT showroom to see what the new Toyota currently has to offer!
Source: 1http://www.autoblog.com/2013/09/29/us-built-corollas-exported-to-latin-america-caribbean/
