Toyota extends passenger leadership as sales track upwards

4 August 2011

Toyota has regained its regular place atop the nation’s passenger vehicle sales chart, as global supply issues which temporarily affected Toyota New Zealand’s passenger sales quickly disappear in the company’s rear vision mirror.

The year-to-date sales figures also have a familiar look about them, with Toyota’s commercial icon, Hilux, number one and popular Corolla at number two.

In the seven months to the end of July, Toyota has sold 4,035 more vehicles than its nearest rival, holding a commanding 19 per cent share of the market for the year. And in July, Toyota extended its year to date unit sales lead in both passenger and overall sales.

Steve Prangnell, general manager Sales and Operations, says Toyota is grateful for the ongoing support of its loyal customers in all market segments.

“We are more focused than ever to meet our customers’ expectations and manage our stock well. Thankfully the supply issues are rapidly dissipating, and Toyota Motor Corporation will be at full production capacity for the final quarter of the year.

In July, Toyota landed more than 1300 new vehicles in New Zealand. Toyota’s factories in Japan are all running above 100 per cent capacity through a combination of overtime and swing shifts.

Mr Prangnell said Toyota’s recent retention of the number one most trusted automotive brand in the NZ Reader’s Digest 2011 survey showed Kiwis’ faith in Toyota remains a powerful force.

“We never take our place in New Zealanders’ hearts and minds for granted. This award has given us a timely boost on top of the rising sales numbers as we anticipate a 24th year at overall number one in New Zealand.”

ENDS

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