Toyota’s Global Sales Hit Record High in January

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Data released by Toyota on February 26 showed that its global sales (including Lexus) reached 822,577 units in January, a 5% year-on-year increase, setting a new record for the highest single-month sales in January. Sales were strong in the US and Europe, primarily driven by hybrid vehicles (HVs). The Chinese market also saw year-on-year growth due to improvements to key models. Global production declined by 6% year-on-year to 735,097 units due to factors such as redesigns of some models.

Toyota’s overseas sales in January increased by 6% year-on-year to 699,512 units, a new record high. In the US, despite the Trump administration’s imposition of additional tariffs, hybrid vehicles maintained strong sales momentum. January sales reached 176,853 units, an 8% increase. Exports from Japan to the US decreased by 4% to 38,298 units, but Toyota explained that this was due to fluctuations in shipping arrangements, logistical conditions, and customer demand.

Sales in the previously weak Chinese market also rebounded, increasing by 7% year-on-year to 145,464 units. The updated Corolla Cross SUV played a significant role in driving sales. In Europe, the Yaris and Yaris Cross performed exceptionally well, with a 12% year-on-year increase to 104,727 units.

Global sales of electric vehicles (EVs), including hybrids and pure electric vehicles (EVs), reached 414,386 units, accounting for more than half of total sales. In Japan, sales of the bZ4X pure electric vehicle, scheduled for improvement in 2025, remained strong.

Global production was lower than the same period last year due to the complete redesign of the RAV4 SUV. The elimination of gasoline versions of existing models also contributed to the decline. North American production fell by 25% to only 134,351 units. Canadian production was 16,592 units, a decrease of one-third.

In Japan, production declined by 6% to 249,827 units due to a decrease in working days caused by the distribution of working days. In Asia, where Chinese automakers continue to enter the market, Toyota’s production increased by 7% to 251,428 units. The strong performance of new models launched in markets such as China and Thailand has supported production.