Hiroshi Okuda, former Toyota chief credited for leading the Japanese automaker’s global climb, dies

Hiroshi Okuda, the former CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation, who played a pivotal role in the company's global expansion, has passed away at the age of 93, according to a statement from the company. The specific date and cause of his death have not been disclosed yet. Okuda held the positions of president and chairman at Toyota from 1995 to 2006.

Throughout his 45-year career at Toyota, Okuda is most notably remembered for his leadership in the development of the groundbreaking gas-electric hybrid Prius in 1997. This vehicle marked a significant shift towards fuel efficiency in the automotive industry, especially relevant at a time when gas prices were on the rise. The Prius became a symbol of Toyota's commitment to green driving, alongside its bestseller Camry.

Born in central Japan, the region housing Toyota's headquarters, Okuda graduated from Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo in 1955, with a degree in business. Unusually for Toyota's leadership, which traditionally came from the Toyoda family, Okuda was not a member of this family. He was known for his outspoken nature and quick wit, qualities that set him apart from his peers.

Okuda's tenure at Toyota was marked by his instrumental role in the company's global expansion. He was responsible not only for driving sales but also for expanding production, establishing manufacturing plants in the U.S. and Europe. A judo black belt, Okuda was vocal about his concerns over potential backlash Toyota might face due to its growth, noting that this could inevitably challenge the dominance of American automakers like General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler.

He consistently emphasized the global and interconnected nature of the auto industry, using the term "harmony" to underscore this message.