Shoichiro Toyoda, the Honorary Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, has passed away at the age of 97. Dr Toyoda, who was the son of the company’s founder Kiichiro Toyoda, began his career with Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) in 1952 and served in many positions during his long career.

During his long career, Toyoda served in many positions with emphasis on automotive technology and quality control. He became managing director in 1961, senior managing director in 1967, and executive vice president in 1972. He was named president of Toyota's sales organization in 1981, and after the merger of the sales and production organizations in 1982, he became president of the newly integrated TMC. He later served as chairman of the board between 1992 and 1999. Dr Toyoda served on the board for 57 years and assumed the position of honorary chairman in 2009 until his death.

Toyoda is survived by his eldest son, Akio Toyoda, who is the current president and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation. The funeral service will be held for close family members only. Toyota Motor Corporation will hold a farewell gathering at a later date.

Toyoda is the father of the current president and CEO, Akio Toyoda, his eldest son. The funeral service will be for close family members only. Toyota Motor Corporation will hold a farewell gathering at a later date.

Source: Toyota