Toyota’s new CEO, Koji Sato, has made an announcement that will bring major changes to the automaker’s executive team. This move is part of a broader strategy aimed at accelerating the development of electric vehicles (EVs). Sato’s vision includes launching an EV-specific platform that should be available around the year 2026, and there’s also a significant focus on electrifying Lexus.
Despite these grand plans, Sato has been tight-lipped about the specifics of the new EV platform. Nevertheless, he did promise that more details would be forthcoming after his official promotion to company president on April 1. It remains to be seen whether we will learn more about the underpinnings of the new platform at that time.
In his own words, Sato has indicated that his first priority is “business reform starting with next-generation BEVs.” To achieve this, he believes that the structure of the car must be streamlined and that the company must take a BEV-first mindset. In addition, he says that Toyota must drastically change the way it does business if it is to deliver attractive EVs to a broader customer base.
In the past, Sato oversaw the Toyota Gazoo Racing and Lexus departments. He elevated Masanori Kuwata to the position of new Lexus executive. Previously, Kuwata oversaw global human resources for Toyota and served as its chief compliance and risk officer.
Regarding his electrification plan, Sato remarked, “Lexus is going to play a leading role in it.”
The first member of a new family of EVs from Lexus is the 2023 RZ (seen above). Prices begin at $59,650 once the destination fee is taken out. Starting at $65,150, the Lexus RZ 450e Luxury can cost as much as $72,209 when equipped with all available options and accessories.
Promotion to the operational officer within the parent business was also given to Tetsuo “Ted” Ogawa, president and CEO of Toyota Motor North America. He will still be responsible for his past obligations.
The Toyota management team, according to Sato, “is like a soccer squad.” “Depending on the difficulties we encounter, the formation needs to be adaptable. As captain, it will be my responsibility as president to make the most of the team’s strengths.”
In January, Akio Toyoda made the decision to relinquish his position as CEO in favour of one as board chairman. At that time, he named Sato as his successor. For 13 years, Toyoda has served as the automaker’s president and CEO.
Source and Images: Motor1