From Autonomous Drifting to Space Rockets: Akio Toyoda Expands Vision for Toyota at CES 2025

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At the CES 2025 press conference, Toyota unveiled a series of ambitious projects and initiatives, showcasing its transformation from a traditional automaker to a comprehensive mobility company.

The presentation, led by Chairman Akio Toyoda, highlighted advancements in autonomous technology, urban development, and even space exploration.

The presentation went on to show a video of two cars drifting together. This suggests a focus on developing vehicles capable of handling extreme driving conditions without human intervention.

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In a surprising move, Toyota revealed its interest in space exploration. Toyoda stated, “We’re exploring rockets, too. Because the future of mobility shouldn’t be limited to just Earth, or just one car company.”

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As Toyota approaches its centennial, the company’s journey from a humble loom manufacturer to a global automotive and technology leader exemplifies its enduring spirit of innovation.

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[{"selector":"#anim-3b1e534a-6f87-459c-a904-043d60454f44","keyframes":{"opacity":[0,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1200,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-d19fa5a1-0a11-46ed-a71b-027d2489b16c","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-114.81482%, 0px, 0)","translate3d(0px, 0px, 0)"]},"delay":0,"duration":1200,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] Sakichi’s son, Kiichiro Toyoda, leveraged the success of the family’s loom business to venture into automobile manufacturing. In 1933, Kiichiro established the Automotive Department within Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, which would eventually evolve into Toyota Motor Company in 1937. Learn more

The transition from Toyoda to Toyota was more than just a name change; it represented the company’s evolution and its commitment to continuous improvement.

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