Proceeds from the sale of production rights to a British company enabled Sakichi Toyoda's son, Kiichiro, to invest in the development of automotive technology. Toyota's first passenger car was launched in 1936.

Since that time, Toyota has built one vehicle every 20 seconds, with a cumulative production total in excess of 90 million units. The export of vehicles from Japan started in the 1950's. l959 saw the start of production in other countries, and Toyota cars are now produced in 26 nations around the world.

Toyota (GB) PLC is the importer and distributor for Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the UK and is responsible for sales, marketing, after-sales and customer satisfaction. Sales are managed throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland by a network of over 200 Official Toyota Centres and 50 dedicated Lexus sales centres. Toyota offers the UK's widest product range comprising 17 different vehicles. In addition there are nine Lexus models.

There are two plants in the UK: Burnaston, Derbyshire, employing around 3100 people and the engine plant in Deeside, North Wales employing around 480.

Toyota lead the world in automotive innovation. 5% of annual net sales (over £2 billion per year) is invested in new technology and the development of new products - more than any other manufacturer.

Toyota is playing a leading role in the development of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) technology, such as automatic pilot systems. In addition, 50% of all our engine technology R&D is focused on the search for alternative fuel sources, reinforcing the positive links between Toyota and the environment.