New Delhi: Toyota Motor Corp’s global sales experienced a notable increase of nearly 5% in April compared to the same period last year. This surge in sales can be attributed to the growing demand for both hybrid and gasoline-powered vehicles in Japan and China. Additionally, the automaker achieved improved overseas sales of battery electric vehicles (EVs), surpassing last year’s sales figures for the first four months of the year.
In April, Toyota sold a total of 800,863 vehicles worldwide, which included its luxury Lexus brand. This marked a 4.9% rise compared to the corresponding month in the previous year, when sales were severely impacted by supply shortages caused by the pandemic. The Japanese automaker’s domestic market showcased remarkable growth with sales of 125,326 vehicles, of which hybrids such as the new Prius accounted for over half. Sales of hybrids in Japan witnessed an impressive year-on-year surge of 59.2%, outperforming the overall domestic car sales increase of 21.5%.
China also played a significant role in Toyota’s sales growth, as the company experienced a substantial 46.3% jump in sales, amounting to 162,554 units in April compared to the same month in the previous year. This recovery in sales can be attributed to the rebound from the pandemic-related impact experienced during the corresponding period in 2022.
Furthermore, Toyota’s foray into the realm of battery EVs has yielded positive results. In April alone, the automaker sold 8,584 battery EVs worldwide, including those under its Lexus brand, accounting for over 1% of its global sales for the month. This achievement marked the first time that Toyota surpassed the 1% threshold in a single month. Cumulatively, the company sold a total of 26,057 battery-powered vehicles in the first four months of the year, exceeding the 24,466 battery EVs sold throughout the entirety of 2022.
Toyota’s robust sales performance in April can be attributed to several factors. The increasing popularity of hybrid vehicles in Japan, exemplified by the strong sales of the new Prius, has contributed significantly to the overall growth. Additionally, the rebound in China’s automotive market, coupled with the rising demand for environmentally friendly vehicles, has propelled Toyota’s sales in the region. The positive response to the company’s battery EVs also indicates a growing interest in electric mobility options.
Overall, Toyota’s April sales figures demonstrate the company’s ability to adapt to market demands and capitalize on emerging trends. The sustained growth in both domestic and international markets, driven by a diverse range of vehicles, including hybrids, gasoline-powered cars, and battery EVs, positions Toyota as a key player in the global automotive industry.