Road Cars - Toyota

Toyota is one of the most famous and influential car manufacturers in the world.

Founded in 1937 in Japan, Toyota has grown to become a global leader in automobile production, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and efficiency. In the world of motorsport, Toyota has also had a significant presence, including notable participation in Formula 1, Le Mans, and rallying.

The first Toyota car was the Toyota AA, a passenger vehicle launched in 1936, which resembled American cars of the time. Over the years, Toyota's line of cars expanded to include a range of vehicles from compact sedans to luxury cars.

One of the more notable periods of Toyota's involvement in motorsports was their participation in Formula 1, which lasted from 2002 to 2009. Although Toyota F1 did not experience major success, Toyota found much more success in other motorsport disciplines, particularly in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race.

Toyota's involvement in rallying has been another major success, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC). Toyota has a rich history in the WRC, especially during the 1990s. Their Toyota Celica and Corolla models were competitive on rally stages and helped the company win numerous driver's and manufacturer's championships.

Beyond motorsport, Toyota’s impact on the automotive industry is profound. Known for its innovative manufacturing processes (like the Toyota Production System), the company revolutionized car production in the 20th century. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability, and fuel efficiency has earned the company a global reputation for durable cars.