Annual Report
Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 25, 2008

 

 

 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 20-F

 

 

(Mark One)

 

¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

 

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended: March 31, 2008

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                                  to                                 

OR

 

¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission file number: 1-14948

 

 

TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION

(Translation of Registrant’s Name into English)

Japan

(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)

 

 

1 Toyota-cho, Toyota City

Aichi Prefecture 471-8571

Japan

+81 565 28-2121

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

Kiyohisa Funasaki

Telephone number: +81 565 28-2121

Facsimile number: +81 565 23-5800

Address: 1 Toyota-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture 471-8571, Japan

(Name, telephone, e-mail and/or facsimile number and address of registrant’s contact person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class:   Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered:
Common Stock   The New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report: 3,149,279,852 Shares of Common Stock as of March 31, 2008

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act: Yes  x    No  ¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934: Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days: Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer  x            Accelerated filer  ¨            Non-accelerated filer  ¨

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP  x             International Financial Reporting Standards as issues by the International Accounting Standards Board  ¨            Other  ¨

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow: Item 17  ¨    Item 18  ¨

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act): Yes  ¨    No  x

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

          Page

ITEM 1.

  

IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

   1

ITEM 2.

  

OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

   1

ITEM 3.

  

KEY INFORMATION

   1

 3.A

  

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

   1

 3.B

  

CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS

   4

 3.C

  

REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS

   4

 3.D

  

RISK FACTORS

   4

ITEM 4.

  

INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

   7

 4.A

  

HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

   7

 4.B

  

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

   7

 4.C

  

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

   43

 4.D

  

PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT

   43

ITEM 4A.

  

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

   45

ITEM 5.

  

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

   45

 5.A

  

OPERATING RESULTS

   45

 5.B

  

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

   62

 5.C

  

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES

   65

 5.D

  

TREND INFORMATION

   66

 5.E

  

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

   67

 5.F

  

TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

   67

 5.G

  

SAFE HARBOR

   68

ITEM 6.

  

DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

   69

 6.A

  

DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

   69

 6.B

  

COMPENSATION

   73

 6.C

  

BOARD PRACTICES

   74

 6.D

  

EMPLOYEES

   76

 6.E

  

SHARE OWNERSHIP

   77

ITEM 7.

  

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

   79

 7.A

  

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

   79

 7.B

  

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

   80

 7.C

  

INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

   80

ITEM 8.

  

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

   80

 8.A

  

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

   80

 8.B

  

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

   81

ITEM 9.

  

THE OFFER AND LISTING

   81

 9.A

  

LISTING DETAILS

   81

 9.B

  

PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

   81

 9.C

  

MARKETS

   81

 9.D

  

SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

   82

 9.E

  

DILUTION

   82

 9.F

  

EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE

   82

ITEM 10.

  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

   82

 10.A

  

SHARE CAPITAL

   82

 10.B

  

MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

   82

 10.C

  

MATERIAL CONTRACTS

   88


Table of Contents

 10.D

  

EXCHANGE CONTROLS

   88

 10.E

  

TAXATION

   89

 10.F

  

DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS

   95

 10.G

  

STATEMENT BY EXPERTS

   95

 10.H

  

DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

   95

 10.I

  

SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION

   95

ITEM 11.

  

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

   95

ITEM 12.

  

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

   96

ITEM 13.

  

DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

   97

ITEM 14.

  

MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

   97

ITEM 15.

  

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

   97

ITEM 16.

  

[RESERVED]

   98

ITEM 16A.

  

AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

   98

ITEM 16B.

  

CODE OF ETHICS

   98

ITEM 16C.

  

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

   98

ITEM 16D.

  

EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

   100

ITEM 16E.

  

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

   100

ITEM 17.

  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   102

ITEM 18.

  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   102

ITEM 19.

  

EXHIBITS

   103


Table of Contents

As used in this annual report, the term “fiscal” preceding a year means the twelve-month period ended March 31 of the year referred to. All other references to years refer to the applicable calendar year, unless the context otherwise requires. As used herein, the term “Toyota” refers to Toyota Motor Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries as a group, unless the context otherwise indicates.

In parts of this annual report, amounts reported in Japanese yen have been translated into U.S. dollars for the convenience of readers. Unless otherwise noted, the rate used for this translation was ¥100.19= $1.00. This was the approximate exchange rate in Japan on March 31, 2008.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Written forward-looking statements may appear in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, including this annual report, documents incorporated by reference, reports to shareholders and other communications.

The U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking information to encourage companies to provide prospective information about themselves without fear of litigation so long as the information is identified as forward looking and is accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the information. Toyota relies on this safe harbor in making forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this annual report and include statements regarding Toyota’s current intent, belief, targets or expectations or those of its management. In many, but not all cases, words such as “aim”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “hope”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “predict”, “probability”, “risk”, “should”, “will”, “would”, and similar expressions, are used as they related to Toyota or its management, to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect Toyota’s current views with respect to future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those which are anticipated, aimed at, believed, estimated, expected, intended or planned.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from estimates or forecasts contained in the forward-looking statements are identified in “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this annual report, and include, among others:

(i) changes in economic conditions and market demand affecting, and the competitive environment in, the automotive markets in Japan, North America, Europe and other markets in which Toyota operates;

(ii) fluctuations in currency exchange rates, particularly with respect to the value of the Japanese yen, the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Australian dollar, the Canadian dollar and the British pound;

(iii) Toyota’s ability to realize production efficiencies and to implement capital expenditures at the levels and times planned by management;

(iv) changes in the laws, regulations and government policies in the markets in which Toyota operates that affect its automotive operations, particularly laws, regulations and policies relating to trade, environmental protection, vehicle emissions, vehicle fuel economy and vehicle safety, as well as changes in laws, regulations and government policies that affect Toyota’s other operations, including the outcome of future litigation and other legal proceedings;

(v) political instability in the markets in which Toyota operates;

(vi) Toyota’s ability to timely develop and achieve market acceptance of new products; and

(vii) fuel shortages or interruptions in transportation systems, labor strikes, work stoppages or other interruptions to, or difficulties in, the employment of labor in the major markets where Toyota purchases materials, components and supplies for the production of its products or where its products are produced, distributed or sold.

 


Table of Contents

PART I

ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable.

ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

3.A SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

You should read the U.S. GAAP selected consolidated financial information presented below together with “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and Toyota’s consolidated financial statements contained in this annual report.

U.S. GAAP Selected Financial Data

The following selected financial data have been derived from Toyota’s consolidated financial statements. These financial statements were prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

 

    Year Ended March 31,  
    2004     2005     2006     2007     2008     2008  
    (in millions, except share and per share data)  

Consolidated Statement of Income Data:

           

Automotive:

           

Revenues

  ¥ 15,973,826     ¥ 17,113,535     ¥ 19,338,144     ¥ 21,928,006     ¥ 24,177,306     $ 241,315  

Operating income

    1,518,954       1,452,535       1,694,045       2,038,828       2,171,905       21,678  

Financial Services:

           

Revenues

    736,852       781,261       996,909       1,300,548       1,498,354       14,955  

Operating income

    145,998       200,853       155,817       158,495       86,494       863  

All Other:

           

Revenues

    896,244       1,030,320       1,190,291       1,323,731       1,346,955       13,444  

Operating income

    15,247       33,743       39,748       39,679       33,080       330  

Elimination of intersegment:

           

Revenues

    (312,162 )     (373,590 )     (488,435 )     (604,194 )     (733,375 )     (7,320 )

Operating income (loss)

    (13,309 )     (14,944 )     (11,268 )     1,681       (21,104 )     (211 )

Total Company:

           

Revenues

    17,294,760       18,551,526       21,036,909       23,948,091       26,289,240       262,394  

Operating income

    1,666,890       1,672,187       1,878,342       2,238,683       2,270,375       22,661  

Income before income taxes, minority interest and equity in earnings of affiliated companies

    1,765,793       1,754,637       2,087,360 (1)     2,382,516       2,437,222       24,326  

Net income

    1,162,098       1,171,260       1,372,180       1,644,032       1,717,879       17,146  

Net income per share:

           

Basic

    342.90       355.35       421.76       512.09       540.65       5.40  

Diluted

    342.86       355.28       421.62       511.80       540.44       5.39  

Shares used in computing net income per share, basic (in thousands)

    3,389,074       3,296,092       3,253,450       3,210,423       3,177,445       —    

Shares used in computing net income per share, diluted (in thousands)

    3,389,377       3,296,754       3,254,499       3,212,235       3,178,662       —    

 

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Table of Contents
    Year Ended March 31,
    2004   2005   2006   2007   2008   2008
    (in millions, except per share and numbers of vehicles sold data)

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data (end of period):

         

Total Assets:

  ¥ 22,040,228   ¥ 24,335,011   ¥ 28,731,595   ¥ 32,574,779   ¥ 32,458,320   $ 323,968

Short-term debt, including current portion of long-term debt

    3,314,219     3,532,747     4,756,907     5,865,507     6,228,152     62,163

Long-term debt, less current portion

    4,247,266     5,014,925     5,640,490     6,263,585     5,981,931     59,706

Shareholders’ equity

    8,178,567     9,044,950     10,560,449     11,836,092     11,869,527     118,470

Common stock

    397,050     397,050     397,050     397,050     397,050     3,963

Other Data:

           

Dividends per share

  ¥ 45.0   ¥ 65.0   ¥ 90.0   ¥ 120.0   ¥ 140.0   $ 1.40

Number of vehicles sold

           

Japan

    2,303,078     2,381,325     2,364,484     2,273,152     2,188,389     —  

North America

    2,102,681     2,271,139     2,556,050     2,942,661     2,958,314     —  

Europe

    898,201     978,963     1,022,781     1,223,628     1,283,793     —  

Asia

    557,465     833,507     880,661     789,637     956,509     —  

Other*

    857,938     943,444     1,150,587     1,295,581     1,526,934     —  
                               

Worldwide total

    6,719,363     7,408,378     7,974,563     8,524,659     8,913,939     —  
                               

 

* “Other” consists of Central and South America, Oceania, Africa and the Middle East, etc.
(1) Includes ¥143.3 billion in gain on exchange of marketable securities relating to the merger of Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group, Inc., and UFJ Holdings.

DIVIDEND INFORMATION

Toyota normally pays cash dividends twice per year. Toyota’s board of directors recommends the dividend to be paid to shareholders and pledgees of record as of March 31 each year. This recommended dividend must then be approved by shareholders at the general shareholders’ meeting. Toyota pays the dividend immediately following approval of the dividend at the shareholders’ meeting, normally around the end of June of each year. In addition to these year-end dividends, Toyota may pay interim dividends in the form of cash distributions from its distributable surplus to shareholders and pledgees of record as of September 30 in each year by resolution of its board of directors and without shareholder approval. Toyota normally pays the interim dividend in late November.

In addition, under the Corporation Act of Japan (the “Corporation Act”), dividends may be paid to shareholders and pledgees of record as of any record date, other than those specified above, as set forth by Toyota’s articles of incorporation or as determined by its board of directors from time to time. Such dividends may be distributed by a resolution of any general shareholders’ meeting. Toyota’s articles of incorporation also permit Toyota to pay dividends, in addition to interim dividends mentioned in the preceding paragraph, by a resolution of its board of directors. Toyota has incorporated such a provision into its articles of incorporation in order to secure a flexible capital policy. Under the Corporation Act, dividends may be distributed in cash or (except in the case of interim dividends mentioned in the preceding paragraph) in kind, subject to limitations on distributable surplus and to certain other conditions.

 

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The following table sets forth the dividends declared by Toyota for each of the periods shown. The periods shown are the six months ended on that date. The U.S. dollar equivalents for the cash dividends shown are based on the noon buying rate for Japanese yen on the last date of each period set forth below.

 

         Cash Dividends per Share    

Period Ended

   Yen    Dollars

September 30, 2003

   20.0    0.18

March 31, 2004

   25.0    0.24

September 30, 2004

   25.0    0.23

March 31, 2005

   40.0    0.37

September 30, 2005

   35.0    0.31

March 31, 2006

   55.0    0.47

September 30, 2006

   50.0    0.42

March 31, 2007

   70.0    0.59

September 30, 2007

   65.0    0.65

March 31, 2008

   75.0    0.75

The payment and the amount of any future dividends are subject to the level of Toyota’s future earnings, its financial condition and other factors, including statutory restrictions on the payment of dividends.

Toyota considers the returning of profits to its shareholders as one of its priority management policies and continuously strives to increase per-share earnings, through aggressively promoting its business while improving and strengthening its corporate foundations. With respect to the payment of dividends, Toyota declared an annual dividend payment of ¥140 per share at the end of fiscal 2008, which is an increase of ¥20 from the previous fiscal year. This marks the ninth consecutive term of dividend increase, which is a record high for Toyota. The consolidated dividend payout ratio increased in fiscal 2008 to 25.9% from 23.4% in fiscal 2007. Going forward, Toyota aims to achieve a consolidated dividend payout ratio of 30% at an early stage, as well as to strive for continuous growth of dividend per share, while giving due consideration to factors such as business results for each term and new investment plans.

Exchange Rates

In parts of this annual report, yen amounts have been translated into U.S. dollars for the convenience of investors. Unless otherwise noted, the rate used for the translations was ¥100.19 = $1.00. This was the approximate exchange rate in Japan on March 31, 2008.

The following table sets forth information regarding the noon buying rates for Japanese yen in New York City as announced for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York expressed in Japanese yen per $1.00 during the periods shown. On June 24, 2008, the noon buying rate was ¥107.76 = $1.00. The average exchange rate for the periods shown is the average of the month-end rates during the period.

 

Fiscal Year Ended or Ending March 31,

   At End of Period    Average
(of month-end rates)
   High    Low
     (¥ per $1.00)

2004

   104.18    112.75    120.55    104.18

2005

   107.22    107.28    114.30    102.26

2006

   117.48    113.67    120.93    104.41

2007

   117.56    116.55    121.81    110.07

2008

   99.85    113.61    124.09    96.88

2009 (through June 24, 2008)

   107.76    105.92    108.19    100.87

 

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Month Ended

   High    Low
     (¥ per $1.00)

December 31, 2007

   114.45    109.68

January 31, 2008

   109.70    105.42

February 29, 2008

   108.15    104.19

March 31, 2008

   103.99    96.88

April 30, 2008

   104.56    100.87

May 31, 2008

   105.52    103.01

Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Japanese yen and the U.S. dollar will affect the dollar equivalent of the price of the shares on the Japanese stock exchanges. As a result, exchange rate fluctuations are likely to affect the market price of the ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). Toyota will declare any cash dividends on shares in Japanese yen. Exchange rate fluctuations will also affect the U.S. dollar amounts received on conversion of cash dividends.

Exchange rate fluctuations can also materially affect Toyota’s reported operating results. In particular, a strengthening of the Japanese yen against the U.S. dollar can have a material adverse effect on Toyota’s reported operating results. For a further discussion of the effects of currency rate fluctuations on Toyota’s operating results, please see “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Operating Results — Overview — Currency Fluctuations”.

3.B CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS

Not applicable.

3.C REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

3.D RISK FACTORS

Industry and Business Risks

The worldwide automotive market is highly competitive.

The worldwide automotive market is highly competitive. Toyota faces strong competition from automotive manufacturers in the respective markets in which it operates. Competition is likely to further intensify in light of continuing globalization and consolidation in the worldwide automotive industry. Factors affecting competition include product quality and features, the amount of time required for innovation and development, pricing, reliability, safety, fuel economy, customer service and financing terms. Increased competition may lead to lower vehicle unit sales and increased inventory, which may result in a further downward price pressure and adversely affect Toyota’s financial condition and results of operations. Toyota’s ability to maintain its competitiveness will be fundamental to its future success in existing and new markets and its market share. There can be no assurances that Toyota will be able to compete successfully in the future.

The worldwide automotive industry is highly volatile.

Each of the markets in which Toyota competes has been subject to considerable volatility in demand. Demand for vehicles depends to a large extent on general, social, political and economic conditions in a given market and the introduction of new vehicles and technologies. As Toyota’s revenues are derived from sales in markets worldwide, economic conditions in such markets are particularly important to Toyota. Demand may also be affected by factors directly impacting vehicle price or the cost of purchasing and operating vehicles such as sales and financing incentives, prices of raw materials and parts and components, cost of fuel and governmental

 

4


Table of Contents

regulations (including tariffs, import regulation and other taxes). Volatility in demand may lead to lower vehicle unit sales and increased inventory, which may result in a further downward price pressure and adversely affect Toyota’s financial condition and results of operations.

Toyota’s future success depends on its ability to offer new innovative, price competitive products that meet and satisfy customer demand on a timely basis.

Meeting and satisfying customer demand with attractive new vehicles and reducing the amount of time required for product development are critical elements to the success of automotive manufacturers. The timely introduction of new vehicle models, at competitive prices, meeting rapidly changing customer preferences and demands is fundamental to Toyota’s success. There is no assurance that Toyota may adequately perceive and identify changing customer preferences and demands with respect to quality, styling, reliability, safety and other features in a timely manner. Even if Toyota succeeds in perceiving and identifying customer preferences and demands, there is no assurance that Toyota will be capable of developing and manufacturing new, price competitive products in a timely manner with its available technology, intellectual property, sources of raw materials and parts and components, and production capacity. Further, there is no assurance that Toyota will be able to implement capital expenditures at the level and times planned by management. Toyota’s inability to develop and offer products that meet customer demand in a timely manner could result in a lower market share and reduced sales volumes and margins, and may adversely affect Toyota’s financial condition and results of operations.

Toyota’s ability to market and distribute effectively and maintain its brand image is an integral part of Toyota’s successful sales.

Toyota’s success in the sale of vehicles depends on its ability to market and distribute effectively based on distribution networks and sales techniques tailored to the needs of its customers as well as its ability to maintain and further cultivate its brand image across the markets in which it operates. There is no assurance that Toyota will be able to develop sales techniques and distribution networks that effectively adapt to customer preferences or changes in the regulatory environment in the major markets in which it operates. Nor is there assurance that Toyota will be able to cultivate and protect its brand image. Toyota’s inability to maintain well developed sales techniques and distribution networks or a positive brand image may result in decreased sales and market share and may adversely affect its financial condition and results of operations.

The worldwide financial services industry is highly competitive.

The worldwide financial services industry is highly competitive. The market for automobile financing has grown as more consumers are financing their purchases, primarily in North America and Europe. Increased competition in automobile financing may lead to decreased margins. A decline in Toyota’s vehicle unit sales, an increase in residual value risk due to lower used vehicle price, increase in the ratio of credit losses and increased funding costs are factors which may impact Toyota’s financial services operations. Poor performance in Toyota’s financial services operations may adversely affect its financial condition and results of operations.

Financial Market and Economic Risks

Toyota’s operations are subject to currency and interest rate fluctuations.

Toyota is sensitive to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and is principally exposed to fluctuations in the value of the Japanese yen, the U.S. dollar and the euro and, to a lesser extent, the Australian dollar, the Canadian dollar and the British pound. Toyota’s consolidated financial statements, which are presented in Japanese yen, are affected by foreign currency exchange fluctuations through both translation risk and transaction risk. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates may affect Toyota’s pricing of products sold and materials purchased in foreign currencies. In particular, strengthening of the Japanese yen against the U.S. dollar can have a material adverse effect on Toyota’s operating results.

 

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Toyota believes that its use of certain derivative financial instruments including interest rate swaps and increased localized production of its products have reduced, but not eliminated, the effects of interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, which in some years can be significant. Nonetheless, a negative impact resulting from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in interest rates may adversely affect Toyota’s financial condition and results of operations. For a further discussion of currency and interest rate fluctuations and the use of derivative financial instruments, please see “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Operating Results — Overview — Currency Fluctuations”, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”, and notes 20 and 21 to Toyota’s consolidated financial statements.

High prices of raw materials and strong pressure on Toyota’s suppliers could negatively impact Toyota’s profitability.

High prices for raw materials that Toyota and Toyota’s suppliers use in manufacturing their products or parts and components, such as steel, precious metals, non-ferrous alloys including aluminum and plastic parts, may lead to high parts and components prices and production costs that could in turn negatively impact Toyota’s future profitability because Toyota may not be able to pass all those costs on to its customers or require its suppliers to absorb such costs.

Political, Regulatory and Legal Risks

The automotive industry is subject to various governmental regulations.

The worldwide automotive industry is subject to various laws and governmental regulations including those related to vehicle safety and environmental matters such as emission levels, fuel economy, noise and pollution. Many governments also impose tariffs and other trade barriers, taxes and levies, and enact price or exchange controls. Toyota has incurred, and expects to incur in the future, significant costs in complying with these regulations. New legislation or changes in existing legislation may also subject Toyota to additional expenses in the future.

Toyota may become subject to various legal proceedings.

As an automotive manufacturer, Toyota may become subject to legal proceedings in respect of various issues, including product liability and infringement of intellectual property, and Toyota is in fact currently subject to a number of pending legal proceedings. A negative outcome in one or more of these pending legal proceedings could adversely affect Toyota’s future financial condition and results of operations. For a further discussion of governmental regulations, please see “Information on the Company — Business Overview — Governmental Regulation, Environmental and Safety Standards” and for legal proceedings, please see “Information on the Company — Business Overview — Legal Proceedings”.

Toyota may be adversely affected by political instabilities, fuel shortages or interruptions in transportation systems, natural calamities, wars, terrorism and labor strikes.

Toyota is subject to various risks associated with conducting business worldwide. These risks include political and economic instability, natural calamities, fuel shortages, interruption in transportation systems, wars, terrorisms, labor strikes and work stoppages. The occurrence of any of these events in the major markets in which Toyota purchases materials, parts and components and supplies for the manufacture of its products or in which its products are produced, distributed or sold, may result in disruptions and delays in the operations of Toyota’s business. Significant or prolonged disruptions and delays in Toyota’s business operations may result to adversely affect Toyota’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

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ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

4.A HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

Toyota Motor Corporation is a limited liability, joint-stock company incorporated under the Commercial Code and continues to exist under the Corporation Act. Toyota commenced operations in 1933 as the automobile division of Toyota Industries Corporation (formerly, Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, Ltd.). Toyota became a separate company on August 28, 1937. In 1982, the Toyota Motor Company and Toyota Motor Sales merged into one company, the Toyota Motor Corporation of today. As of March 31, 2008 Toyota operated through 530 consolidated subsidiaries and 234 affiliated companies, of which 55 companies were accounted for through the equity method.

See “— Business Overview — Capital Expenditures and Divestitures” for a description of Toyota’s principal capital expenditures and divestitures between April 1, 2005 and March 31, 2008 and information concerning Toyota’s principal capital expenditures and divestitures currently in progress.

Toyota’s principal executive offices are located at 1 Toyota-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture 471-8571, Japan. Toyota’s telephone number in Japan is +81-565-28-2121.

4.B BUSINESS OVERVIEW

General

Toyota primarily conducts business in the automotive industry. Toyota also conducts business in the finance and other industries. Toyota sold 8.91 million vehicles in fiscal 2008 on a consolidated basis. Toyota had net revenues of ¥26,289.2 billion and net income of ¥1,717.8 billion in fiscal 2008.

Toyota’s business segments are automotive operations, financial services operations and all other operations. The following table sets forth the Toyota’s sales to external customers in each of its business segments for each of the past three fiscal years.

 

     Yen in millions
     Year Ended March 31,
     2006    2007    2008

Automotive

   ¥ 19,325,616    ¥ 21,914,168    ¥ 24,160,254

Financial Services

     977,416      1,277,994      1,468,730

All Other

     733,877      755,929      660,256

Toyota’s automotive operations include the design, manufacture, assembly and sale of passenger cars, minivans and commercial vehicles such as trucks and related parts and accessories. Toyota’s financial services business consists primarily of providing financing to dealers and their customers for the purchase or lease of Toyota vehicles. Toyota’s financial services also provide retail leasing through the purchase of lease contracts originated by Toyota dealers. Related to Toyota’s automotive operations is its development of intelligent transport systems (“ITS”). Toyota’s all other operations business segment includes the design and manufacture of prefabricated housing and information technology related businesses, including an e-commerce marketplace called Gazoo.com.

Toyota sells its vehicles in more than 170 countries and regions. Toyota’s primary markets for its automobiles are Japan, North America, Europe, Asia and China. The following table sets forth Toyota’s sales to external customers in each of its geographical markets for each of the past three fiscal years.

 

     Yen in millions
     Year Ended March 31,
     2006    2007    2008

Japan

   ¥ 7,735,109    ¥ 8,152,884    ¥ 8,418,620

North America

     7,455,818      8,771,495      9,248,950

Europe

     2,574,014      3,346,013      3,802,814

Asia

     1,836,855      1,969,957      2,790,987

Other*

     1,435,113      1,707,742      2,027,869

 

* “Other” consists of Central and South America, Oceania, Africa.

 

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During fiscal 2008, 24.6% of Toyota’s automobile unit sales on a consolidated basis were in Japan, 33.2% were in North America, 14.4% were in Europe and 10.7% were in Asia. The remaining 17.1% of unit sales were in other markets.

The Worldwide Automotive Market

Toyota estimates that annual worldwide vehicle sales totaled approximately 72 million units in 2007.

Automobile sales are affected by a number of factors including:

 

   

social, political and economic conditions,

 

   

introduction of new vehicles and technologies, and

 

   

costs incurred by customers of purchasing and operating automobiles.

These factors can cause consumer demand to vary substantially from year to year in different geographic markets and in individual categories of automobiles.

In 2007, Europe, North America, China, Asia, and Japan were the world’s largest automotive markets. Worldwide market share, based on total automobile sales on a retail basis in each market, was 32% for Europe, 27% for North America (25% excluding Mexico and Puerto Rico), 12% for China, 8% for Asia, and 7% for Japan. In Europe, new vehicle sales increased from the previous year to approximately 23.1 million units. In North America, new vehicle sales decreased slightly to approximately 19.4 million units. In China, new vehicle sales expanded at a high growth rate to approximately 8.5 million units. In Asia (including India but excluding Japan and China), new vehicle unit sales increased to approximately 5.5 million units. In Japan, total new vehicle unit sales (including mini-vehicles) decreased to approximately 5.4 million units.

The worldwide automotive industry is affected significantly by government regulations aimed at reducing harmful effects on the environment, enhancing vehicle safety and improving fuel economy. These regulations have added to the cost of manufacturing vehicles. Many governments also mandate local procurement of parts and components and impose tariffs and other trade barriers and price or exchange controls as a means of creating jobs, protecting domestic producers or influencing their balance of payments. Changes in regulatory requirements and other government-imposed restrictions can limit an automaker’s operations. These regulations can also make it difficult to repatriate profits to an automaker’s home country.

The development of the worldwide automotive market includes the continuing globalization of automotive operations. Manufacturers seek to achieve globalization by localizing the design and manufacture of automobiles and their parts and components in the markets in which they are sold. By expanding production capabilities beyond their home markets, automotive manufacturers are able to reduce their exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates as well as to trade restrictions and tariffs.

Since 2000, the global automotive industry has experienced various transactions which have promoted consolidation within the industry. There are various reasons behind these transactions including the need to respond to the global overcapacity in the production of automobiles, the need to reduce costs and improve efficiencies by increasing the number of automobiles produced using common vehicle platforms and by sharing research and development expenses for environmental and other technology, the desire to expand a company’s global presence through increased size and the desire to expand into particular segments or geographic markets. In recent years, however, there has been a trend towards reviewing and reconsidering some of the business consolidations.

Toyota believes that it has the resources, strategies and technologies in place to compete effectively in the industry as an independent company. In addition, Toyota believes that its research and development initiatives,

 

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particularly the development of environmentally friendly new vehicle technologies, vehicle safety and information technology, provide it with a strategic advantage as a global competitor.

Toyota’s ability to compete in the global automotive industry will depend in part on Toyota’s successful implementation of its business strategy. This is subject to a number of factors, some of which are not in Toyota’s control. These factors are discussed in “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and elsewhere in this annual report.

Toyota’s Strategy

Toyota’s corporate goal is to maintain its position as a market leader in the automotive industry and to continue its growth, while enhancing profitability and shareholder returns. In order to achieve this corporate goal, Toyota strives to further enhance its technology, production and marketing, supported by improvements in quality control, strengthening of cost-competitiveness and personnel development. Among these, technology is the most important element as the driver of growth. Toyota has been dedicated to addressing environmental issues, and as environmental awareness continues to grow in the market, Toyota strives to improve its unique hybrid technology in order to develop environmentally-friendly products. Toyota believes it is strategically important to continue expanding its business globally, and at the same time develop products that satisfy specific needs of each region with its advanced technology.

Toyota’s mid- to long-term goals are to pursue sustainability in three areas — “R&D”, “manufacturing (monozukuri)”, and “social contribution”. Toyota will strive to enhance its corporate value by strengthening and advancing these three “sustainabilities” at a global level and achieving both environmental protection and sustainable business growth.

Toyota’s specific strategy in connection with the foregoing consists of the following elements:

Distinguished Products to Offer a Full Product Lineup and Capture Opportunities in All Regions

With respect to advancement of growth and the necessary foundations that support it, Toyota aims to avoid risk, and rather, create opportunities by striving for better quality, thereby obtaining opportunities for a full product lineup in all regions. Key elements of this strategy include models in the following categories:

 

   

Global Models (IMV, Vitz/Yaris, Camry and Corolla/Auris). Under the concept of “Global Best, Local Best,” Toyota aims to develop, manufacture and distribute attractive products that satisfy regional characteristics and demand while using common platforms and core parts and components. Toyota sold about 3.4 million units of Global Models worldwide, which accounted for approximately 40% of its global sales in fiscal 2008, achieving a significant growth in unit sales.

 

   

Models Targeted to Resource-rich and Emerging Markets. Toyota expects that the automobile market in resource-rich countries and emerging countries will continue to grow and present significant opportunities for Toyota. Toyota has therefore been striving to, and has been achieving success in, establishing operational foundations for production and distribution in these markets. In order to gain market shares in these markets, Toyota, taking into consideration the demands of the resource-rich markets and emerging markets, is enhancing the supply system by increasing locally manufactured products as well as introducing products that meet different regional needs.

 

   

Hybrid Models. Since the introduction of the Prius in 1997, which was the first mass-produced hybrid car in the world, Toyota has continued expanding and upgrading the model line-up by using its hybrid technology as one of the key technologies for solving environmental issues. By fiscal 2008, which marked the 10th Anniversary since its debut, the total number of Prius models sold exceeded one million units at the end of April 2008. In addition, the total number of all hybrid vehicles sold as of March 31, 2008 totaled 1.41 million units. Toyota aims to make use of the technical know-hows obtained through the sale of these models, and aims to continue to offer improved hybrid model lineups.

 

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Annual Unit Sales of Hybrid Models Globally

 

     Year Ended March 31,
     2005    2006    2007    2008
     (in thousands)

Total Unit Sales

   146    252    353    444

 

   

Premium Brand Models (Lexus). Since the Lexus was first launched in 1989 in the United States, Lexus has been introduced in 67 countries around the world. At present, Toyota is taking action to strengthen the Lexus brand in each geographic region. In fiscal 2008, Lexus sales soared to approximately 510 thousand units, an increase of 12 thousand units from the 498 thousand units sold in fiscal 2007.

 

   

Market-creating Products. Toyota believes that it is strategically important to introduce models into developed countries that meet the diverse needs and that comply with environmental regulations which are being tightened due to heightened environmental concerns. Toyota plans to introduce market-creating products taking into consideration environmental concerns, by utilizing its advanced technology.

Localize Global Operations with Targeted Regional Strategies

Toyota believes that a global automotive manufacturer needs to supply products that are targeted carefully to local demand in order to maintain a competitive edge in the worldwide automotive industry, and also believes that local sales, marketing and manufacturing presence is necessary to fully develop a market’s potential. Localization better allows Toyota to design, manufacture and offer products within each market that respond to market changes and satisfy local tastes and preferences. A localized manufacturing presence enables Toyota to hedge against the effects of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. It also allows Toyota to make social contributions to communities in which it has a local presence. Toyota’s efficient production and sales network, together with its global model strategy and its efforts to design products that appeal to particular regional preferences, allow it to offer a comprehensive lineup of products in each region in which it operates.

Toyota is pursuing the following targeted regional strategies in order to be a leader in each major market in which it competes. By pursuing these regional strategies, Toyota’s profit structure has become more geographically balanced.

 

   

Japan as the Center of the Global Operations. In Japan, Toyota aims to maintain steady profitability in the Japanese market, which is the center of its global operations, and to develop products and to establish the global core base which leads and supports operations in all other regions. Toyota believes that it is important to maintain and improve its high market share in Japan and is committed to maintaining its market leadership in Japan by striving to achieve a consistent market share (excluding mini-vehicles) each year. Toyota held a domestic market share (excluding mini-vehicles) on a retail basis of 44.3% in fiscal 2006, 45.8% in fiscal 2007 and 45.6% in fiscal 2008. Amid the continued market downturn and despite increased competition from its domestic competitors, Toyota maintained its market share of over 45% in fiscal 2008 due to the active introduction of new and remodeled car models such as the Allion, Premio, Noah, Voxy, ist, Corolla Rumion, Vanguard, MarkX Zio and the Crown. In addition, in order to respond flexibly to global demand fluctuations, Toyota has implemented the “Global Link Production System”. Specifically, Toyota strives to improve flexible production capabilities for various car models in its plants in Japan, thereby establishing a production system that can respond quickly and flexibly to the fluctuating demands of the overseas markets. Furthermore, Toyota aims to improve its production capacity and operation rate through putting in place a mutual support structure at a global level by maintaining an encompassing view of trends in demands, as well as the operating conditions of plants, in each region in which it operates.

Since Toyota formed an alliance with Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd. (“FHI”) in 2005, Toyota and FHI have utilized each other’s resources in development and production such as moving some of Toyota’s production to FHI’s North American production center Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. In April 2008, in order to create synergy and to further strengthen competitiveness, Toyota, Daihatsu and FHI agreed on the following three points: (1) Toyota and FHI will jointly develop a compact rear-wheel-

 

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drive sports car that will be marketed by both TMC and FHI, (2) Toyota will provide FHI with a compact car on an original-equipment-manufacturing basis (“OEM”) and (3) Daihatsu will supply FHI with mini-vehicles and an FHI version of the Daihatsu Coo compact car on an OEM basis. In order to implement a smooth cooperation, Toyota and FHI came to a basic agreement for FHI to transfer 61 million FHI shares owned by FHI. The share transfer is planned to be executed after approval from Japan’s Fair Trade Commission. Following this transfer, TMC would own 16.5% of FHI issued shares.

 

   

Self-Reliant Growth in North America. In North America, one of Toyota’s most significant markets, Toyota aims to secure steady profits and to establish a self-reliant operational framework. Toyota continues to seek further growth, and in the past few years it has expanded its production capacity and improved its product lineup. Toyota’s North American unit sales on a consolidated basis grew from 2.94 million units in fiscal 2007 to 2.96 million units in fiscal 2008, despite the downturn in the economy due to the subprime mortgage crisis. In fiscal 2008, Toyota’s North American unit sales represented approximately 33% of its total global unit sales on a consolidated basis. Toyota believes its continuing growth in unit sales in the North American market is driven by the successful introduction of products such as the fully remodeled Tundra, Highlander, the xB, xD of the Scion line-up, the Lexus LS Hybrid and IS F. Toyota believes that the unit sales for fuel-efficient vehicles such as the Prius and the Camry Hybrid increased primarily due to increasing gasoline price. Further, in fiscal 2008, Toyota brand vehicles accounted for approximately 82%, Lexus brand accounted for approximately 13% and Scion line-up vehicles accounted for approximately 5% of the vehicle unit sales in the United States, respectively.

With the view that the North American market is growing in the long term, Toyota has increased production capacity in North America as follows, and plans to further expand its North American operations. In April 2007, Toyota commenced production of the Camry at the Subaru’s Indiana plant, and during 2007, Toyota increased its production capacity of the Tacoma to 50 thousand units at the Baja California plant in Mexico. Furthermore, in December 2007, Toyota started the production of its remodeled Sequoia at the Indiana plant. Toyota also commenced production of the Corolla and the Vibe (OEM for General Motors) at the NUMMI plant, a joint venture of Toyota and General Motors, and commenced the production of the Corolla and the remodeled Matrix at the Cambridge plant in Canada in January 2008. In addition, Toyota plans to commence production of the RAV4 at the Woodstock plant in Canada in the fall of 2008 and also plans to commence production of the Highlander at the Mississippi plant in 2010.

 

   

Achieving Steady Growth in Europe. In the European market, Toyota is aiming to establish a presence within the automotive industry, comparable to that of European automotive manufacturers. In 2007, while the overall European automotive market grew by 5.8%, Toyota’s European unit sales grew to approximately 1.26 million units, an increase of approximately 10% compared to 2006. Toyota’s European unit sales on a consolidated basis grew to approximately 1.28 million units in fiscal 2008, an increase of approximately 4.9% compared to fiscal 2007 levels.

Although the market has been weak in Western European countries ever since the raise in the German VAT, in fiscal 2008, Toyota’s sales was steady in this region, due to strong sales of the Auris and the Prius. Furthermore, the Eastern European market has been expanding boosted by the strong Russian economy, and due to factors such as the increase in sales of the Camry and the Avensis, it has become a significant growth factor for Toyota in the European market. To meet the demands of the rapidly growing market for foreign brand luxury and large vehicles in Russia, Toyota is working to develop the distribution and after service networks, and in December 2007, began producing 20 thousand units of the Camry annually.

In order to comply with the increasingly more stringent environmental regulations in Western European countries, in addition to promoting the sale of its existing low-emission vehicles, Toyota is aiming to launch a new vehicle model that meets carbon dioxide emission standards. Furthermore, Toyota will endeavor to stimulate the demand through its launch of market-creating products and will aim to achieve growth with high-profitability with the increase in sales of highly profitable Lexus brand vehicles. In Eastern European countries including Russia, Toyota is aiming to achieve solid growth by meeting increasing demands through the rapid development of its distribution network.

 

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Establishing Predominance in the Developing Asian Market. In light of the growing importance of the Asian market, Toyota aims to build an operational framework that is efficient and self-reliant as well as a predominant position in the automotive market in Asia. Operating income for Asia in fiscal 2008 doubled as compared to fiscal 2007, with favorable sales in Indonesia and increase in production capacity in Thailand responding to the increase in demand for IMV models (Hilux and Fortuner) from outside Asia. Toyota also made substantial investments in this market earlier than its major global competitors and developed relationships with local suppliers in the region. While competition in Asia is further increasing, Toyota believes that its existing local presence in the market provides it with a competitive advantage and expects to benefit from its early entrance into the market as demand for vehicles in the region continues to grow. Toyota is aiming to further increase its competitiveness by improving product line-up offered in the region and increasing local procurement to decrease its exposure to foreign currency exchange fluctuations. For example, at its Thailand plant, Toyota commenced production of the Vios in 2002 and Wish in 2003. Toyota also began producing IMV models (Hilux, Fortuner and Innova) in Thailand, Indonesia, India, the Philippines and Malaysia in fiscal 2005 and in Vietnam in fiscal 2006. Furthermore, with increased production capacity, the Thailand plant now produces IMV models (Hilux, Fortuner and Innova) for sale outside of Asia, including Australia and the Middle East, and is contributing greatly to the expansion of Toyota’s automotive business. Furthermore, Toyota Motor Thailand Co., Ltd., Toyota’s vehicle production base in Thailand, plans to commence production of the Camry Hybrid in 2009. In addition, the engine production base in Thailand plans to increase diesel engine production capacity from the current 200 thousand units per year to 350 thousand units per year, which would increase engine production capacity including gasoline engines to 650 thousand units per year. In India, Toyota is actively developing its business through local production and sales, and decided to construct the second plant with an annual production capacity of 100 thousand units. In 2010, this plant is scheduled to commence production of the Corolla and other passenger vehicles such as newly developed compact cars.

 

   

Promoting Vehicle Sales in Central and South America, Oceania, Africa and the Middle East. In recent years, unit sales in each of Central and South America, Oceania, Africa and the Middle East has increased rapidly. In fiscal 2008, Toyota’s consolidated unit sales was approximately 1.53 million units, an increase of approximately 17.9% from fiscal 2007. Increase in the sale of the Corolla in Brazil, IMV models (Hilux and Fortuner) in Argentina and the Camry in Australia all contributed notably to the increased unit sales in the region. These models are all global models which are designed to satisfy regional demands, while keeping production costs down by using common platforms and core parts and components with vehicle models in other regions. Furthermore, Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Ltd., Toyota’s vehicle production base in Australia, plans to commence production of the Camry Hybrid from the beginning of 2010. In the Middle East, demand for sport-utility vehicles such as the Land Cruiser is on the rise, and Toyota plans to expand supply capacity of the Land Cruiser to this region. In these regions, which are expected to become increasingly more important to Toyota’s business strategy, Toyota aims to develop new products which meet the demands of each region, increase production and further promote sales.

 

   

Securing Stable Development in China. Toyota has been conducting its operations in China through joint ventures, and its success in producing products that meet local demands and in establishing its sales and service network has significantly contributed to Toyota’s profits. Based on the firm business foundation that it has established, Toyota is conducting its operations with the aim to promote further growth and increase in profitability through further development of its sales and service network, increased production capacity and expansion of its product lineup.

In China, Toyota has been conducting joint ventures with two major partners. First, with respect to the joint venture with China FAW Group Corporation, since Toyota first launched the Vios through the joint venture in 2002, Toyota commenced the production and sale of eight car models by the end of 2005 including the Land Cruiser Prado, Land Cruiser, Corolla, Crown, REIZ and Coaster in China. Particularly, in late 2005, Toyota also began the production of the hybrid Prius, taking in environmental considerations. With regard to increasing production capacity, in May 2007, Toyota commenced

 

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production of the new Corolla at the third Tianjin plant with an annual production capacity of 200 thousand units, and by the end of 2009, Toyota plans to increase its production capacity of the Crown and the REIZ at the second Tianjin plant from its current capacity of 100 thousand units to 150 thousand units. Guangzhou Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., a joint venture between Toyota and the other partner Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd, commenced production of the Camry in May 2006 with an annual production capacity of 100 thousand units on a single shift basis and, by late 2006, it expanded its annual production capacity to 200 thousand units on a double shift basis. In addition, it commenced production of the Yaris in May 2008, with an expected annual production of 80 to 90 thousand units.

Promote Key Initiatives Globally

Toyota believes that the following key initiatives are essential in increasing its competitiveness in the global automotive market and for improving its profitability and prospects for continued growth:

 

   

Maintain Leadership in Research and Development. Toyota believes that its long-term success will depend on being a leader in automotive research and development. To that end, Toyota is focusing its research and development on the promotion of environmentally sound technologies, and product safety technologies. Toyota is committed to building environmentally friendly automobiles and is focusing its initiatives on the following areas:

 

   

contribute to the environment through increased promotion of and further improvement in hybrid technology (including efforts for cost reduction and enhanced performance),

 

   

strengthen diesel engine lineups and the use of clean diesel technologies,

 

   

the reduction of emissions and improvement of fuel economy in conventional models,

 

   

the development of automobiles powered by fuel cells and other non-traditional fuel technologies, and

 

   

the improvement of technologies that pursue driving and vehicle safety.

In particular, Toyota considers addressing environmental issues as one of the top management priorities and aims to curtail environmental burden by reducing carbon dioxide emission at all levels of operations, namely in automobile design to production, distribution, disposal, and recycling. An example of Toyota’s leadership in environmental technology was the introduction of the hybrid Prius into the Japanese market in 1997.

In addition, in December 2002 Toyota began limited sales of fuel cell hybrid vehicles that use fuel cells to generate the electricity that drives the motor, in Japan and the United States. In June 2005, these vehicles became the first fuel cell hybrid passenger vehicle that were approved by the Road Vehicles Act, as amended, which was enacted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on March 31, 2005. Furthermore, leases were commenced in Japan and the United States in July 2005. By 2007, Toyota was able to make improvements to start up and cruising distance at temperature below freezing, which were technological challenges. Toyota is steadily advancing in the application of new technologies through overcoming technological issues such as the above.

Moreover, Toyota is promoting the development of cutting-edge technologies through alliances with other companies, such as its alliance with General Motors Corporation for the development of advanced technologies, and its alliance with Exxon Mobil Corporation for the development of power sources compatible with fuel of the future. In addition, Toyota has entered into an alliance with PSA Peugeot Citroën for the development and production of low-cost, fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles.

In November 2006, Toyota entered into a basic agreement with Isuzu Motors Limited, to complement each other technologically in the development and production of diesel engines and other areas. In

 

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August 2007, the parties reached a basic agreement to develop, manufacture and distribute aluminum block diesel engines with 1.6 liter-class emission to be used in Toyota cars to be introduced in the European market. Production is scheduled to begin around 2012.

In April 2008, Toyota established the Toyota Research Institute of North America (the “TRI-NA”), a specialized institute in advanced research within the Toyota Technical Center in North America. In addition to accelerating existing advanced research, the theme of “transportation society” will be newly added. The TRI-NA aims to strengthen Toyota’s advanced research efforts in North America, while enhancing interaction with North American universities and research organizations.

 

   

Improve Efficiency. Toyota plans to improve profitability and enhance operating efficiencies by continuing to pursue aggressive cost reduction programs, including:

 

   

improving product development and production efficiencies through the re-integration and improvement of vehicle platforms and power trains and through the development of electronic platforms which organize electronic devices of vehicles as a package and standardize electronic structure and infrastructure,

 

   

Conducting cost reduction activities under the VI (Value Innovation) Activities, aiming to reduce costs starting with the developing phase on a system-by-system basis,

 

   

applying advanced information technologies to improve efficiency throughout the product development and production processes,

 

   

increasing the focus on global purchasing opportunities, standardization and modularization to optimize purchasing from suppliers,

 

   

streamlining production systems, and

 

   

improving the efficiency of domestic and international distribution.

Toyota is further improving production efficiency by installing more versatile equipment and systems, modifying vehicle body designs to allow for a greater variety of models on each production line and sharing more parts among vehicles.

Toyota continues to focus on reducing costs and improving efficiencies through various measures. One of these measures is the reduction in the number of platforms used in vehicle production. Platforms are the essential structures that form the base of different vehicle models. By using a common platform for the production of a greater number of models, Toyota believes that it will be able to decrease the substantial expenditures required to design and develop multiple platforms. In addition, Toyota believes that it will be able to achieve the scale benefits of producing larger volumes per platform, thereby reducing manufacturing cost per vehicle.

In addition to platform reduction, Toyota continues to focus on other methods of increasing the commonality of parts and components used in different models. These steps include reducing model variations and the number of parts used in each model. Toyota is seeking to increase the efficiency of procurement from outside suppliers by making use of a common global database to enable plants in different areas of the world to purchase parts and materials from the most competitive sources. In addition, Toyota is engaged in the “Value Innovation” (VI) activity which is focused on systems-based cost innovation, going one step beyond item-based innovation. Adopting a new approach to designing, Toyota aims to achieve comprehensive cost reductions by treating associated parts as integrated systems.

Toyota’s ability to achieve these cost reductions is subject to a number of factors, some of which are not in Toyota’s control. These factors include the successful implementation of the manufacturing processes described above, as well as the business and financial conditions of Toyota’s suppliers and the general economic and political conditions in the markets in which these suppliers operate.

 

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Strengthening Finance Operations for Sales

Toyota’s financial services include loans and leasing programs for customers and dealers. Toyota believes that its ability to provide financing to its customers is an important value-added service. In July 2000, Toyota established a wholly-owned subsidiary, Toyota Financial Services Corporation, to oversee the management of Toyota’s finance companies worldwide, through which Toyota aims to strengthen the overall competitiveness of its financial business, improve risk management and streamline decision-making processes. Toyota plans to expand its network of financial services, in accordance with its strategy of developing auto-related financing businesses in significant markets. Accordingly, Toyota currently operates financial services companies in 32 countries and regions, supports its automotive operations globally.

Maintain Financial Strength

Toyota currently enjoys high credit ratings. These ratings reflect, among other factors, its strong financial position. In addition, Toyota currently maintains a substantial level of cash and liquid investments and a conservative debt-to-equity ratio. Toyota believes these factors will allow it to maintain the resources necessary to fund its research and development expenditures, capital expenditures and financing operations even if it experiences short-term fluctuations in earnings.

Focus on Shareholder Value

Toyota considers the returning of profits to its shareholders as one of its priority management policies and continuously strives to increase per-share earnings, through aggressively promoting its business while improving and strengthening its corporate foundations. With respect to the payment of dividends, Toyota declared an annual dividend payment of ¥140 per share at the end of fiscal 2008, which is an increase of ¥20 from the previous fiscal year. This marks the ninth consecutive term of dividend increase, which is a record high for Toyota. The consolidated dividend payout ratio increased in fiscal 2008 to 25.9% from 23.4% in fiscal 2007. Going forward, Toyota aims to achieve a consolidated dividend payout ratio of 30% at an early stage, as well as to strive for continuous growth of dividend per share, while giving due consideration to factors such as business results for each term and new investment plans.

With respect to the repurchase of own shares, all shares authorized at the ordinary general meeting of shareholders in June 2007, which were the lesser of 30 million shares or the number of shares equivalent to ¥250 billion in cost of repurchase, were repurchased. Furthermore, the board of directors in February 2008 authorized an additional share repurchase of the lesser of 12 million shares or the number of shares equivalent to ¥60 billion in cost of repurchase, and as of March 31, 2008, 9.52 million shares at a total cost of ¥59.9 billion were repurchased. In total, in fiscal 2008, Toyota repurchased 49 million shares at a total cost of ¥317 billion. Since Toyota began repurchasing shares in fiscal 1997, the cumulative number of shares repurchased as of the end of June 2008 was approximately 722.04 million shares at a total cost of approximately ¥2.796 trillion. The following table shows the number of shares repurchased and the cost of repurchase of those shares for each of the periods indicated:

 

     Year Ended March 31,
     2004    2005    2006    2007    2008

Approximate number of shares repurchased

     121 million      63 million      28 million      45 million      49 million

Approximate amount paid

   ¥ 399  billion     ¥  266  billion     ¥  134 billion     ¥  300  billion     ¥  317 billion 

In order to define improvement of capital efficiency, Toyota canceled 162 million shares of its treasury stock at the end of fiscal 2008. Toyota will continue to retain the remaining treasury stock of approximately 300 million shares in order to achieve flexibility in management, but as a principle, plans to cancel all shares it repurchases in the future. At the ordinary general meeting of shareholders in June 2008, a resolution was passed to authorize repurchase of 30 million shares at a total cost of ¥200 billion. Toyota aims to continue to repurchase shares in order to effectively respond to changes in the management environment and improve capital efficiency.

 

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Going forward, Toyota hopes to continue to meet shareholder expectations through mid- to long-term growth and active returning of profits to shareholders.

Toyota’s future share repurchases will be influenced by factors such as Toyota’s future earnings and financial position. For more details, please see “Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers.”

Automotive Operations

Toyota’s revenues from its automotive operations were ¥24.2 trillion in fiscal 2008, ¥21.9 trillion in fiscal 2007 and ¥19.3 trillion in fiscal 2006.

Toyota produces and sells passenger cars, minivans and commercial vehicles such as trucks. Toyota Motor Corporation’s subsidiary, Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (“Daihatsu”), produces and sells mini-vehicles and compact cars. Hino Motors, Ltd. (“Hino”), also a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, produces and sells commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses. Toyota also manufactures automotive parts, components and accessories for its own use and for sale to others.

Vehicle Models

Toyota’s vehicles (provided by Toyota, Daihatsu and Hino) can be classified into two categories: conventional engine vehicles and hybrid vehicles. Toyota’s product line-up includes subcompact and compact cars, mini-vehicles, mid-size, luxury, sports and specialty cars, recreational and sport-utility vehicles, pickup trucks, minivans, trucks and buses.

Conventional Engine Vehicles

Subcompact and Compact

Toyota’s subcompact and compact cars include the four-door Corolla sedan, which is one of Toyota’s best selling models. The Yaris, marketed as the Vitz in Japan, is a subcompact car designed to include features such as better performance and comfort compared to other compact cars available on the market, with low emissions that are particularly attractive to European consumers. The Vitz which is currently available in Japan was remodeled in February 2005. This model launched in the United States in March 2006. Toyota introduced the Ractis and Belta in 2005, Auris and bB in 2006, ist which was remodeled in July 2007, and Corolla Rumion in October of the same year. In the United States, Toyota introduced the Scion xB and Scion xD in 2007.

Mini-Vehicles

Mini-vehicles are manufactured and sold by Daihatsu. Daihatsu manufactures mini-vehicles, passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and auto parts. Mini-vehicles are passenger cars, vans or trucks with engine displacements of 660 cubic centimeters or less. Toyota also sells under its name certain automobiles (excluding mini-vehicles) manufactured by Daihatsu. Daihatsu sold approximately 595 thousand mini-vehicles and 190 thousand automobiles on a consolidated basis during fiscal 2008. Daihatsu’s largest market is Japan, which accounted for approximately 73% of Daihatsu’s unit sales during fiscal 2008.

Mid-Size

Toyota’s mid-size models include the Camry, which has been the best selling passenger car in the United States for ten of the past eleven calendar years (From 1997 to 2007) and also for the last six consecutive years. The Camry was fully remodeled in January 2006. Camry models include the Camry Solara sport coupe. Camry sales in the United States for 2007 was approximately 473 thousand units (including approximately 28 thousand Solaras approximately 54 thousand hybrid vehicles). Toyota’s Japanese mid-size cars also include the Mark X, Blade which was introduced in December 2006, and Premio and Allion, both of which were remodeled in May 2007.

 

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Luxury & Large

In North America, Europe and Japan, Toyota’s luxury line-up consists primarily of vehicles sold under the Lexus brand name. In the United States, Lexus has earned the title of best-selling luxury brand for the eighth consecutive year by selling approximately 327 thousand units in 2007. Lexus models include the full-size LS sedan which was remodeled in September 2006, the GS sedans that were remodeled in January 2005, the ES which was remodeled in March 2006, the IS mid-size sport sedans that were remodeled in August 2005. Lexus models also include luxury sport-utility vehicles sold in the United States, such as the GX, the RX, luxury sport-utility vehicles including the LX, which was remodeled in July 2007, as well as the SC and the IS F. Toyota commenced sales of its luxury automobiles in Japan under the Lexus brand in August 2005. As of May 31, 2008, the Lexus brand line-up in Japan includes the LS, GS, IS, IS F and SC. In addition to the Toyota brand’s full-size luxury car, the Crown, which was remodeled in February 2008, Toyota also sells the Century limousine in Japan.

Sports and Specialty

In Japan and other markets, Toyota sells the Lexus SC two-door sports coupe, and in the United States the Scion tC, a sport car model targeted to young drivers. In December 2007, Toyota introduced the IS F model as the high-performance sports model of the Lexus brand.

Recreational and Sport-Utility Vehicles and Pickup Trucks

Toyota sells a variety of sport-utility vehicles and pickup trucks. Toyota sport-utility vehicles available in North America include the Sequoia, the 4Runner, the RAV4, the Highlander, the FJ Cruiser and the Land Cruiser, and pickup trucks available are the Tacoma and Tundra. The Tacoma, the Tundra and the Sequoia are manufactured in the United States. Toyota also offers sport-utility vehicles under the Lexus brand, including the GX, the RX, as well as the LX which was remodeled in November 2007. The LX, the GX, the Land Cruiser, the Tundra, the Sequoia, the 4Runner and the Prado sold in the United States are equipped with V-8 engines. Toyota also manufactures the RX model in Canada. Toyota’s pickup truck, the Hilux, has been the best selling model of all Toyota cars sold in Thailand. The RAV4 was remodeled in Japan in November 2005 and in North America in December 2005. In August 2007, Toyota also introduced the Vanguard model in Japan.

Minivans and Cabwagons

Toyota offers several basic models for the global minivan market. Its largest minivan, the Alphard was remodeled in May 2008 in Japan, at the same time that the Vellfire was introduced. Toyota’s other minivan models include the Sienna, which underwent a model change in March 2003 and is sold in North America, the Hiace and Regius Ace, the Estima which was remodeled in January 2006, the Noah and the Voxy, which were remodeled in June 2007. Other models include the Wish, which is sold in Japan, the Sienta, and the Isis.

Trucks and Buses

Toyota’s product line-up includes trucks (including vans) up to a load capacity of four tons and micro-buses, which are sold in Japan and in overseas markets. Trucks and buses are also manufactured and sold by Hino, a subsidiary of Toyota. Hino’s product line-up includes large trucks with a load capacity of over ten tons, medium trucks with a load capacity between four and eight tons, and small trucks with a load capacity of between two and four tons. Hino held the largest share of the Japanese large truck market in fiscal 2008. Hino’s bus line-up includes large to medium buses used primarily as tour buses and public buses, small buses and micro-buses. Toyota and Hino maintain a large share of the small bus (including micro-buses) segment in Japan.

Hybrid Vehicles

The world’s first mass-produced hybrid car was Toyota’s Prius. It runs on an efficient combination of gasoline engine and motor. This system allows the Prius to travel more efficiently than conventional engine vehicles of comparable size and performance on the same amount of gasoline. The hybrid design of the Prius also

 

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results in the output of 75% less pollution than the maximum amount allowed by Japanese environmental regulations. Toyota views the Prius as the cornerstone of its emphasis on designing and producing environmentally friendly automobiles. In 2003, Toyota introduced in Japan, the United States, Europe and other markets, a fully remodeled Prius, which decreases negative environmental impact through higher fuel efficiency and ultra-low emissions while increasing power and performance. In March 2005, Toyota introduced the RX400h in North America and Europe and the Harrier Hybrid in Japan. Toyota also introduced the Highlander Hybrid in North America. Toyota introduced the Prius in China in November 2005 and the hybrid version of the Camry in North America in May 2006. Toyota introduced the GS450h, the hybrid version of the Lexus brand premium sedan, in North America, Europe and Japan by March 2006. As of May 2008, Toyota has sold over 1.4 million hybrid vehicle units, including over 1 million vehicle units of the Prius. Furthermore, in May 2007 Toyota introduced the LS600h hybrid sedan in Japan, North America, and Europe, which Toyota believes to offer the highest quality of the Lexus brand to date. Furthermore, in May 2008, Toyota introduced the hybrid version of the Crown which is the signature model of the Toyota brand, in Japan.

Toyota also began limited sales of a fuel cell hybrid vehicle in Japan and the United States in December 2002. In June 2005, Toyota’s new fuel cell hybrid passenger vehicle became the first in Japan to acquire vehicle type certification under the Road Vehicles Act, as amended, on March 31, 2005, by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Leases for the vehicle began in July 2005. By 2007, Toyota was able to make improvements to start up and cruising distance at temperature below freezing, which were technological challenges. Toyota has made advances by solving technological issues such as the above, and has been working towards the practical use of such solutions.

Toyota aims to continue its efforts to offer a diverse line-up of hybrid vehicles, enhance engine power while improving fuel efficiency, and otherwise work towards increasing the sales of hybrid vehicles.

Product Development

New cars introduced in Japan during fiscal 2008 include the Lexus LS600h, IS F, MarkX Zio, Corolla Rumion, and Vanguard. Remodeled cars in Japan during fiscal 2008 include the Crown, ist, Noah, Voxy, Land Cruiser 200, Premio, Allion, Town Ace, and Lite Ace. New cars introduced outside Japan during fiscal 2008 and thereafter include the LS600h introduced in North America and Europe in May 2007, ScionxD introduced in the United States in June 2007, and the IS F introduced in North America and Europe in July 2007. Remodeled cars sold in the United States during fiscal 2008 and thereafter include the Highlander in May 2007, Land Cruiser 200 in August 2007, LX in November 2007 and Corolla and Matrix in January 2008. Remodeled cars sold in Europe during fiscal 2008 and thereafter include the Land Cruiser 200 in August 2007 and LX in November 2007. The IMV product lineup based on the Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle project (IMV) to optimize global manufacturing and supply systems is a lineup of strategic multipurpose vehicles produced from a single platform to meet market demand. Recently, IMV vehicle sales is increasing in emerging countries. The IMV product lineup includes the Hilux Vigo released in Thailand in August 2004, and as of May 31, 2007, one or all of the Hilux, Fortuner and Innova are available in all regions except for Japan and North America.

 

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Markets, Sales and Competition

Toyota’s primary markets are Japan, North America, Europe, Asia and China. The following table sets forth Toyota’s consolidated vehicle unit sales by geographic market for the periods shown. The vehicle unit sales below reflect vehicle sales made by Toyota to unconsolidated entities (recognized as sales under Toyota’s revenue recognition policy), including sales to unconsolidated distributors and dealers. Vehicles sold by Daihatsu and Hino are included in the vehicle unit sales figures set forth below. North America sales information includes sales in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Hawaii.

 

    Year Ended March 31,  
    2004     2005     2006     2007     2008  
    Units   %     Units   %     Units   %     Units   %     Units   %  

Market

                   

Japan

  2,303,078   34.3 %   2,381,325   32.1 %   2,364,484   29.7 %   2,273,152   26.7 %   2,188,389   24.6 %

North America

  2,102,681   31.3     2,271,139   30.7     2,556,050   32.1     2,942,661   34.5     2,958,314   33.2  

Europe

  898,201   13.4     978,963   13.2     1,022,781   12.8     1,223,628   14.3     1,283,793   14.4  

Asia

  557,465   8.3     833,507   11.3     880,661   11.0     789,637   9.3     956,509   10.7  

Other*

  857,938   12.7     943,444   12.7     1,150,587   14.4     1,295,581   15.2     1,526,934   17.1  
                                                 

Total

  6,719,363   100.0 %   7,408,378   100.0 %   7,974,563   100.0 %   8,524,659   100.0 %   8,913,939   100.0 %
                                                 

 

* “Other” consists of Central and South America, Oceania, Africa and the Middle East, etc.

The following table sets forth Toyota’s vehicle unit sales and market share in Japan, North America, Europe and Asia on a retail basis for the periods shown. Each market’s total sales and Toyota’s sales represent new vehicle registrations in the relevant year (except for the Asia market where vehicle registration does not necessarily apply). All information on Japan exclude mini-vehicles. The sales information contained below excludes unit sales by Daihatsu and Hino, each a consolidated subsidiary of Toyota. Vehicle unit sales in Asia do not include sales in Pakistan.

 

     (Thousands of Units)  
     Fiscal Year Ended March 31,  
     2004     2005     2006     2007     2008  

Japan:

          

Total market sales (excluding mini-vehicles)

   4,030     3,940     3,915     3,590     3,428  

Toyota sales (retail basis, excluding mini-vehicles)

   1,729     1,755     1,735     1,643     1,564  

Toyota market share

   42.9 %   44.5 %   44.3 %   45.8 %   45.6 %
     (Thousands of Units)  
     Calendar Year Ended December 31,  
     2003     2004     2005     2006     2007  

North America:

          

Total market sales

   19,695     20,108     20,353     19,979     19,360  

Toyota sales (retail basis, excluding mini-vehicles)

   2,072     2,292     2,514     2,840     2,923  

Toyota market share

   10.5 %   11.4 %   12.4 %   14.2 %   15.1 %

Europe:

          

Total market sales

   19,649     20,802     21,138     21,799     23,100  

Toyota sales (retail basis)

   866     962     1,013     1,144     1,261  

Toyota market share

   4.4 %   4.6 %   4.8 %   5.2 %   5.5 %

Asia:

          

Total market sales

   4,401     4,824     5,214     5,107     5,463  

Toyota sales (retail basis)

   554     692     838     750     779  

Toyota market share

   12.6 %   14.3 %   16.1 %   14.7 %   14.3 %

Japan

The automobile market in Japan has stagnated due to a combination of various factors. Despite this trend, Toyota believes that Japan continues to be the most important market for Toyota’s automotive products. The

 

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Japanese automotive industry is highly competitive. It includes five major domestic manufacturers, five specialized domestic producers and a growing volume of imports from major United States and European manufacturers. The prolonged economic slump in the Japanese economy has also shifted consumer preference towards more affordable automobiles such as compact and subcompact vehicles and towards utility vehicles such as mini-vans. For more than 40 years, Toyota has maintained its position as the largest automobile manufacturer in Japan. Every year since fiscal 1999, Toyota, excluding Daihatsu and Hino, has achieved a market share (excluding mini-vehicles) of over 40%, reflecting in part the success of the introduction of new models for subcompact and compact cars, mini-vans and sedans. In fiscal 2008, Toyota’s (excluding Daihatsu and Hino) share of the domestic market excluding mini-vehicles was 45.6%, and Toyota’s (including Daihatsu and Hino) share of the market including mini-vehicles was 42.0%. In August 2005, Toyota launched the Lexus brand in Japan and recorded a market share of 19.0% in the luxury market in 2007. Toyota aims to further distinguish the Lexus brand by continuing to attract new and affluent customers including customers that typically had purchased imported vehicles.

North America

Toyota’s consolidated vehicle unit sales in North America was 2,958,314 units in fiscal 2008. The United States is the largest portion of the North American market for Toyota, representing approximately 90% of its total retail unit sales in the region. In 2007, Toyota’s retail unit sales in North America achieved over two million units for the fifth consecutive year, despite the sluggish North American automobile market reflecting the downturn in the economy due to the subprime mortgage crisis. This achievement was lead by the success of new products including fully remodeled products such as the Tundra and the Highlander and fuel-efficient vehicles including the Prius and the Camry Hybrid. Toyota’s market share in the United States was 16.2% in 2007, its largest share ever. Competition in North America, particularly the United States is intense. Toyota’s principal competitors in North America are General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Honda and Nissan.

Europe

Consolidated European sales of Toyota vehicles in fiscal 2008 was 1,283,793 units, up 4.9% from fiscal 2007. In 2007, Toyota had a market share in Europe of 5.5% and achieved annual retail unit sales of approximately 1,261 thousand vehicles. The growth in European sales is largely attributable to the success of the Aygo, which was launched in June 2005, the Yaris, which was fully remodeled in January 2006 (marketed in Japan as the Vitz), RAV4, also fully remodeled in January 2006, and the Corolla sedan which was fully remodeled in January 2007 as well as the Auris which was launched at around the same time. Toyota’s principal European markets are Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy and France. In Russia, Toyota achieved sales over 160 thousand units for the first time in 2007. Toyota’s principal competitors in Europe are Volkswagen, Opel, Renault, Ford and Peugeot.

Asia and China

Consolidated Asian sales of Toyota vehicles in fiscal 2008 was 956,509 units, up 21.1% from fiscal 2007. In 2007, Toyota had a market share in Asia of 14.3% and achieved annual retail unit sales of approximately 779 thousand vehicles. The growth in Asian sales is attributable to the increase in sales from the recovery of the Indonesian market and the effect of the full model change of the Camry and the Vios. Toyota’s principal Asian markets are Thailand, Indonesia and Taiwan.

In China, where the economy has been expanding at a rate of over 10% per year, vehicle sales increased 20% from 7.1 million in 2006 to 8.5 million in 2007, and the market has been expanding rapidly. In this market, Toyota’s sales was 499 thousand vehicles. In the locally produced passenger vehicle market (total of approximately 5 million units), Toyota’s sales was 453 thousand units for a market share of 8.7%. Guangzhou Toyota Motor Co., Ltd.’s Camry, which commenced sales in June 2006, and Tianjin FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd.’s Corolla, which underwent a model change in June 2007, greatly contributed to the sales. As for Toyota’s sales network, Toyota has been expanding the sales network for locally produced vehicles in cooperation with Chinese joint venture partners under Tianjin FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. and Guangzhou Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., and for imported vehicles, Toyota has also been expanding the Lexus brand sales network. Going forward,

 

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Toyota plans to increase sales by expanding the number of dealers and the product lineup for both locally produced and imported vehicles. In addition, as the market in China matures, Toyota plans to promote the so-called “Value Chain” businesses such as used cars, services, financing and insurance.

Production

Toyota and its affiliates produce automobiles and related parts and components through more than 50 manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions around the world. Toyota’s major manufacturing facilities include plants in Japan, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Turkey, Czech Republic, Thailand, China, Taiwan, South Africa, Australia, Argentina and Brazil. Daihatsu brand vehicles are produced at 4 factories in Japan and 6 manufacturing companies in 6 other countries, including Indonesia and Malaysia. Hino produces medium trucks for the North American market in Ontario, Canada and West Virginia, United States. In the United States, Toyota and General Motors Corporation operate a joint venture for the assembly of passenger cars and trucks. For a listing of Toyota’s principal production facilities, see “Information on the Company — Property, Plants and Equipment”.

In recent years, Toyota has increased its production capacity outside Japan. This increase in overseas production capacity is integral to Toyota’s strategy of globalizing operations through localization. In 2007, approximately 61% of Toyota automobiles sold in overseas markets were manufactured in overseas plants by Toyota and its unconsolidated affiliates. In 2007, approximately 57% of Toyota vehicles sold in North America were produced in North America. Of the vehicles sold in Europe in 2007, approximately 64% were produced in Europe. In fiscal 2008, Toyota produced on a consolidated basis approximately 5.1 million vehicles in Japan and approximately 3.4 million vehicles overseas, compared to approximately 5.1 million vehicles in Japan and 3.1 million vehicles overseas in fiscal 2007. In addition, in March 2006, Toyota entered into an agreement with FHI to manufacture, according to Toyota’s production methods and system, approximately 100 thousand units of Camrys for the North American market at FHI’s North American production center, Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc., and began production in April 2007. This will enable Toyota to achieve further localization and increase production capacity in North America.

The following table shows the worldwide vehicle unit production by Toyota for the periods shown. These production figures do not include vehicles produced by Toyota’s unconsolidated affiliates. The sales unit information elsewhere in this annual report includes sales of vehicles produced by these affiliates. Vehicles produced by Daihatsu and Hino are included in vehicle production figures set forth below.

 

     Year Ended March 31,
     2004    2005    2006    2007    2008

Units Produced

   6,513,791    7,231,976    7,711,647    8,180,951    8,547,200

Toyota closely monitors its actual units of sale, market share and units of production data and uses this information to allocate resources to existing manufacturing facilities and to plan for future expansions.

Please refer to “— Capital Expenditures and Divestitures” for a description of Toyota’s recent investments in completed plant constructions and for a description of Toyota’s current investments in ongoing plant constructions.

The Toyota Production System

Toyota pioneered the internationally recognized production system known as the “Toyota Production System”. The Toyota Production System is based on Toyota’s own concepts of efficient production and has the following two principal elements:

 

   

Just-in-Time”, and

 

   

Jidoka”.

 

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Just-in-Time is a production method through which necessary parts and components are manufactured and delivered in just the right quantity in a timely manner just as they are needed. This allows Toyota to maintain low levels of inventory while maintaining operating efficiency.

Jidoka generally means automation in Japanese. Toyota combines automation with its ability to stop work immediately when problems arise in the production process to prevent manufacturing defective products. To achieve this, Toyota’s equipment is designed to detect abnormalities and to stop whenever abnormalities occur. Toyota also authorizes its machine operators and other members of its production team to stop production whenever they note anything suspicious. This helps Toyota to build quality into the production process by avoiding defects and preventing the waste that would result from producing a series of defective items.

Toyota believes that the Toyota Production System allows it to achieve mass-production efficiencies even for small production volumes. This system gives Toyota the flexibility to respond to changing consumer demand without significantly increasing production costs. While the Toyota Production System remains the basis of Toyota’s automobile production, the system has been expanded for use in Toyota’s parts production, logistics and customer service activities.

In addition to the two principal elements described above, the Toyota Production System seeks to increase manufacturing efficiency and product quality internally through on-site identification and analysis of problems, improving transparency throughout the production process, and resolving problems at the source. As one means of realizing these goals, Toyota has introduced the use of sophisticated information technologies to improve each step of its vehicle development process, from product planning to commencement of mass-production. These technologies are intended to enhance flexibility, simplicity, quality, cost competitiveness, and speed. Specifically, detailed computer simulation of the assembly and test-run of a new vehicle or new vehicle production equipment or system is conducted before a prototype is made. An actual prototype is made only after defects and related issues have been identified and resolved by computer simulation, thereby minimizing the time required for rebuilding prototypes and significantly shortening the time required for production. Moreover, this system is used to prepare virtual factories and other visual aids in order to facilitate training and communication at overseas plants and enable the efficient transfer of necessary technology and skills.

In order to strengthen manufacturing and promote localization of overseas production, Toyota established the Global Production Center (“GPC”) in July 2003 as a development and training center for global human resources. The GPC is intended to introduce local managers to the Toyota methodology, allowing them to train their subordinates with the local management. GPC develops efficient training systems and formulaic, simplified and easy to understand methodology. One characteristic of the GPC is that managers and supervisors, new hires and experienced workers can all receive common skill training. GPC’s training system involves a pre-training phase where trainees learn basic skills and discover through image training the skills that they must acquire. This is followed by various steps, from basic skill training, elemental task training, to standard task training, which is a sure method of training. The fruits of this training method are reduced training time, higher levels of achievement and the efficiency of training. Since January 2006, Toyota has opened regional GPCs in North America, Europe and Asia. In each region, Toyota commenced courses where trainees from each department are trained by local trainers to become trainers themselves. Since its establishment, GPC had trained approximately 14,000 people in 5 years.

With the aim of enhancing its competitive edge in “self-manufacturing”, Toyota, since 2001, has been developing and implementing the “Simple and user-friendly operation systems & facilities that can be handled by anyone, anywhere”. Toyota is developing its innovative production system, facilities and processing technologies and is currently promoting it at a global level.

Distribution

Toyota’s automotive sales distribution network is the largest in Japan. As of March 31, 2008, this network consisted of 290 dealers employing approximately 40,000 sales personnel and operating more than 4,800 sales

 

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and service outlets. Toyota owns 19 of these dealers and the remainder are independent. In addition, at March 31, 2008, Daihatsu’s sales distribution network consisted of 62 dealers employing approximately 5,400 sales personnel and operating approximately 700 sales and service outlets. Daihatsu owns 35 of these dealers and the remainder is independent.

Toyota believes that this extensive sales network has been an important factor in its success in the Japanese market. A large number of the cars sold in Japan are purchased from salespersons who visit customers in their homes or offices. In recent years, however, the traditional method of sales through home visits is being replaced by showroom sales and the percentage of automobile purchases through showrooms has been gradually increasing. Toyota expects this trend to continue, and accordingly plans to review all aspects of its sales activities, including its customer service at showrooms, with a view toward improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Sales of Toyota vehicles in Japan are conducted through four sales channels — “Toyota,” “Toyopet,” “Corolla” and “Netz.” In addition, Toyota introduced the Lexus brand to the Japanese market in August 2005, and currently distributes the Lexus brand vehicles through a network of approximately 164 sales outlets in order to enhance its competitiveness in the domestic luxury automobile market. The following table provides information for each channel as of March 31, 2008.

 

     Dealers     

Channel

   Toyota
Owned
   Independent    Total   

Market Focus

Toyota

   6    43         49    Luxury channel for Toyota brand vehicles

Toyopet

   5    47         52    Leading channel for the medium market

Corolla

   4    70         74    Volume retail channel centering on compact models

Netz

   4    111         115    Sales channel targeting customers with new values for the 21st century.

Brand

   Sales
Outlets
  

Market Focus

Lexus

   164    Premium brand

Outside Japan, Toyota vehicles are marketed through approximately 170 distributors in approximately 133 countries. Through these distributors, Toyota maintains networks of dealers. The chart below shows the number of Toyota distributors as of April 2008 by country and region:

 

Country/Region

   Number of Countries    Number of Distributors

North America

   3    5

Europe

   30    29

Asia

   14    10

Central and South America

   30    41

Oceania

   11    15

Africa

   26    49

Middle East

   18    17

China

   1    4

Daihatsu vehicles are sold through approximately 130 dealers operating approximately 2,300 sales outlets.

Increase Vehicles Functionality and Intelligent Transport Systems

Toyota is striving to increase vehicle functionality that will increase the attractiveness of vehicles and the excitement of driving. Toyota is also working in various ways to comprehensively realize enhanced transport

 

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systems that are aimed to transport people and goods in a smooth and efficient manner and to build a safe transportation environment. ITS combines automotive technologies and information technologies in an effort to provide vehicle occupants with an array of information and enhanced safety features.

Increasing Vehicle Functionality — Information service functions. To Toyota, increasing vehicle functionality means advancing information service functions that integrate vehicles with telecommunication systems, and driving assistance functions that use communication technologies and sensing technologies to create vehicles with intelligent features. Information service functions can improve the convenience and enrich the driving experience by means of information communication technologies, which add new functions “connected” to the basic vehicle functions “running, turning and stopping”. Examples include the following:

 

   

Advanced car navigation system with functions such as displaying maps and detailed information about the car parking space and the VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) that provides real-time information about road traffic such as congestion, accidents, traffic restrictions and parking. These car navigation systems play an important role in providing drivers with various types of information on safety, smooth traveling, comfort and convenience.

 

   

G-BOOK is the latest information network service that merges the latest network technologies and car multimedia, prior to the arrival of the ubiquitous network society. G-BOOK provides various types of information useful for driving a car as well as the safety and security services that detect unusual conditions in the vehicle, which supports a lifestyle using automobiles anytime and anywhere through a network. In 2005, Toyota started G-BOOK ALPHA and G-Link that is a telematics service exclusive to Lexus, which added various features including the traffic congestion forecast service. In 2007, Toyota launched G-BOOK mX, which is matured as a comprehensive telematics service and built on the proven reliability and security of G-BOOK with the addition of services allowing drivers to use navigation systems more convenient such as “Map-on-Demand” — the world’s first technology for automatically updating map data and “Probe Communication Traffic Information” that provides drivers with highly precise information on traffic congestion.

 

   

HELPNET emergency call service is an emergency notification system that transmits necessary information such as the vehicle location either automatically or through the touch of a button in the event of a traffic accident or medical emergency and immediately contacts police and fire departments through the HELPNET Center. This system is integrated into G-BOOK and G-Link to improve the quality of services. HELPNET shortens the time taken to report after an emergency situation occurs, which contributes to decreasing the number of traffic accident fatalities and reducing the level of impact, preventing second disasters and easing traffic congestion.

Increasing Vehicle Functionality — Driving Assistance Functions. Toyota’s driving assistance functions offer functions that assist drivers with a view to lessen the burden of driving, enhance safety and provide pleasure of driving to everyone. Toyota is proceeding with enhancements with the view to commercialize various functions that assist the driver in sensing external information, avoiding danger and making appropriate maneuvers, all in line with the driver’s basic driving actions. These functions have started to be incorporated in some Toyota vehicles. Examples of driving assistance functions include the following:

 

   

“VDIM” (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) is a system that constantly monitors the driver’s operations and the vehicle’s situation and centrally manages the engine, the steering mechanisms and the brakes. By starting control even before the vehicle’s control limits are reached, the VDIM achieves a high level of ‘active safety’ and improves driving performance namely running, turning and stopping.

 

   

“Pre-crash Safety System” is a system that perceives the possibility of a crash with obstacles or the car in front by millimeter-wave radar sensor that can precisely detect objects even in bad weather condition. If it is determined to be unavoidable, it proceeds to activate safety devices at an early stage to reduce any damage caused by collisions. Toyota is also developing an advanced system that

 

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determines unavoidable collision at an earlier stage with a system using a front camera that better detects objects and a driver monitoring camera that detects facial orientation and the opening and closing of eyes.

 

   

“Adaptive Cruise Control” (with all-speed tracking function) allows the vehicle to keep a constant distance between itself and the preceding vehicle within a range of speed from zero to a preset speed, automatically slowing down and stopping if necessary to avoid collision. When the car in front speeds up, it allows the driver to accelerate, resuming the system.

 

   

“Lane Keeping Assist System” is a system that uses a camera to detect the white or yellow lane markers on the road surface ahead while driving on the highway. The system assists the driver’s operation of the steering wheel by warning a deviation from the lane and by controlling electric power steering, in order to help keep the vehicle traveling between the lane markers. This system does not automatically control the steering to maintain travel between lane markers, but requires the steering of the driver.

 

   

“Intelligent Parking Assist” is the world’s first parking assistance system that enables the vehicle to be automatically steered by electronic steering when backing into a parking spot or when parallel-parking. The driver presets the parking position on the display monitor. Toyota is also developing a system that allows the driver to set the parking position more easily, using a spatial cognition feature that detects the parking space through ultrasonic sensors.

 

   

“Night View” is a system that supports the driver’s vision at night. By utilizing infrared rays, pedestrians, vehicles and other objects within and beyond the range of the headlights are displayed clearly and the driver’s range of vision is widened. In addition, Toyota is developing a system that brackets pedestrians in yellow in the Night View screen and prompts attention.

Enhancing Transport Systems. Enhancing transport systems requires addressing various factors that are pertinent not only to cars but also roads, people and public transport systems in order to ensure the smooth and efficient movement of people and vehicles and to build a safe transportation environment. Although the scope of enhancing transport systems is wide, recent advances in information technology and ITS are making it possible to develop various systems that used to be mere concepts, in addition to systems such as the VICS and the ETC (Electronic Toll Collection System) which are already standard in Japan. An example of enhancing transport systems is the following.

 

   

“Infrastructure Cooperative Driving Support Safety System” is a system developed to decrease the incidence of traffic accidents that are difficult to prevent with only the existing safety equipment. It utilizes communication between the vehicle and the road, the vehicle and other vehicles and the vehicle and pedestrians, providing information to the driver and prompting attention with sound.

Toyota is committed to developing new ITS products. Toyota believes that intelligent transport systems will become an integral part of its overall automotive operations and enhance the competitiveness of its vehicles. As familiarity with and demand for ITS products grows, Toyota expects an increasing number of ITS products to become commercially available and achieve general acceptance each year.

Financial Services

Toyota’s revenues from its financial services operations were ¥1,498 billion in fiscal 2008, ¥1,301 billion in fiscal 2007 and ¥997 billion in fiscal 2006. The market for automobile financing has grown as more consumers are financing and leasing their purchases, particularly in North America and Europe.

Toyota Financial Services Corporation is Toyota’s wholly-owned subsidiary, established in July 2000, which oversees the management of Toyota’s finance companies worldwide and the expansion into new automobile related product areas. Toyota plans to expand its network of financial services, which currently covers 32 countries and regions, in accordance with its strategy of further developing its auto-related financing businesses in significant markets.

 

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Toyota Motor Credit Corporation is Toyota’s principal financial services subsidiary in the United States. Toyota also provides financial services in 31 other countries and regions through various financial services subsidiaries, including:

 

   

Toyota Finance Corporation in Japan,

 

   

Toyota Credit Canada Inc. in Canada,

 

   

Toyota Finance Australia Ltd. in Australia,

 

   

Toyota Kreditbank GmbH in Germany, and

 

   

Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC in the United Kingdom.

Toyota Motor Credit Corporation provides a wide range of financial services, including retail financing, retail leasing, wholesale financing and insurance. Toyota Finance Corporation also provides a range of financial services, including retail financing, retail leasing, credit cards and housing loans. Toyota’s other finance subsidiaries provide retail financing, retail leasing and wholesale financing.

In fiscal 2006, Toyota established a financial services company in Indonesia through a joint venture with PT Astra International Tbk, and in July 2007, Toyota established the financial services company ZAO Toyota Bank in Russia.

Net finance receivables outstanding for all of Toyota’s dealer and customer financing operations were approximately ¥10.3 trillion at March 31, 2008, representing an increase of approximately 2.7% as compared to the amount outstanding as of March 31, 2007. The majority of Toyota’s financial services are provided in North America. As of March 31, 2008, approximately 61.9% of Toyota’s finance receivables were derived from financing operations in North America, 12.6% from Japan, 13.1% from Europe, 4.0% from Asia and 8.4% from other areas.

Approximately 40% of Toyota’s unit sales in the United States during fiscal year 2008 included a financing or lease arrangement with Toyota. Because a significant portion of Toyota’s finance business relates to sales of Toyota vehicles, lower vehicle unit sales may result in a reduction in the level of Toyota’s finance operations.

The worldwide financial services market is highly competitive. Toyota’s competitors for retail financing and retail leasing include commercial banks, credit unions and other finance companies. Commercial banks and other captive automobile finance companies are competitors of Toyota’s wholesale financing activities. Competition for Toyota’s insurance operations is primarily from national and regional insurance companies.

 

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The following table provides information regarding Toyota’s finance receivables and operating leases as of March 31, 2007 and 2008.

 

     Yen in millions     US dollars
in millions
 
     March 31,     March 31,  
     2007     2008     2008  

Finance Receivables

      

Retail

   ¥ 7,005,631     ¥ 6,959,479     $ 69,463  

Finance leases

     1,061,738       1,160,401       11,582  

Wholesale and other dealer loans

     2,342,926       2,604,411       25,995  
                        
     10,410,295       10,724,291       107,040  

Deferred origination costs

     108,076       106,678       1,065  

Unearned income

     (403,191 )     (437,365 )     (4,366 )

Allowance for credit losses

     (112,116 )     (117,706 )     (1,175 )
                        

Total finance receivables, net

     10,003,064       10,275,898       102,564  

Less – Current portion

     (4,108,139 )     (4,301,142 )     (42,930 )
                        

Noncurrent finance receivables, net

   ¥ 5,894,925     ¥ 5,974,756     $ 59,634  
                        

Operating Leases

      

Vehicles

     2,783,706     ¥ 2,814,706     $ 28,094  

Equipment

     106,663       107,619       1,074  
                        
     2,890,369       2,922,325       29,168  

Less – Accumulated depreciation

     (640,997 )     (718,207 )     (7,169 )
                        

Vehicles and equipment on operating leases, net

   ¥ 2,249,372     ¥ 2,204,118     $ 21,999  
                        

Retail Financing

Toyota’s finance subsidiaries acquire new and used vehicle installment contracts primarily from Toyota dealers. For instance, in the United States, approximately half of the used vehicle contracts acquired are certified Toyota used vehicle contracts which relate to vehicles purchased by dealers, reconditioned and certified to meet specified Toyota standards. These vehicles are then sold with an extended warranty from Toyota. Installment contracts acquired must first meet specified credit standards. Thereafter, the finance company retains responsibility for contract collection and administration. Toyota’s finance subsidiaries acquire security interests in the vehicles financed and can generally repossess vehicles if customers fail to meet their contractual obligations. Almost all retail financings are non-recourse, which relieves the dealers from financial responsibility in the event of repossession. In most cases, Toyota’s finance subsidiaries require their retail financing customers to carry automobile insurance on financed vehicles covering the interests of both the finance company and the customer.

Toyota has historically sponsored, and continues to sponsor, special lease and retail programs by subsidizing below market lease and retail contract rates.

Retail Leasing

In the area of retail leasing, Toyota’s finance subsidiaries acquire new vehicle lease contracts originated primarily through Toyota dealers. Lease contracts acquired must first meet specified credit standards after which the finance company assumes ownership of the leased vehicle. The finance company is generally permitted to take possession of the vehicle upon a default by the lessee. Toyota’s finance subsidiaries are responsible for contract collection and administration during the lease period. The residual value is normally estimated at the time the vehicle is first leased. Vehicles returned to the finance subsidiaries at the end of their leases are sold by

 

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auction. For example, in the United States, vehicles are sold through a network of auction sites as well as through the Internet. In most cases, Toyota’s finance subsidiaries require lessees to carry automobile insurance on leased vehicles covering the interests of both the finance company and the lessee.

Wholesale Financing

Toyota’s finance subsidiaries also provide wholesale financing primarily to qualified Toyota vehicle dealers to finance inventories of new Toyota vehicles and used vehicles of Toyota and others. The finance companies acquire security interests in vehicles financed at wholesale. In cases where additional security interests would be required, the finance companies take dealership assets or personal assets, or both, as additional security. If a dealer defaults, the finance companies have the right to liquidate any assets acquired and seek legal remedies.

Toyota’s finance subsidiaries also make term loans to dealers for business acquisitions, facilities refurbishment, real estate purchases and working capital requirements. These loans are typically secured with liens on real estate, other dealership assets and/or personal assets of the dealers.

Insurance

Toyota provides insurance services in the United States through Toyota Motor Credit Corporation’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Toyota Motor Insurance Services, Inc (“TMIS”) and its wholly-owned insurance company subsidiaries. Their principal activities include marketing, underwriting and claims administration. TMIS also provides coverage related to vehicle service agreements and contractual liability agreements through Toyota dealers to customers. In addition, TMIS also provides coverage and related administrative services to affiliates of Toyota Motor Credit Corporation. Toyota dealerships in Japan and in other countries and regions also engage in vehicle insurance sales.

Toyota currently has voting power of approximately 34.6% in Aioi Insurance Co., Ltd, a leading insurance company in Japan. Toyota continues to use its strong relationship with Aioi to develop attractive consumer insurance products for Toyota’s automotive customers. Abroad, Toyota conducts its finance and insurance business in alliance with Aioi, mainly in European countries and Australia.

Other Financial Services

Toyota Finance Corporation launched its credit card business in April 2001 and began issuing the Lexus credit cards in 2005 when the Lexus brand was introduced in Japan. As of March 31, 2008, Toyota Finance Corporation has over 6.5 million card holders of which approximately 36,000 are Lexus credit card holders. Toyota also established Toyota Financial Services Securities Corporation, a subsidiary of Toyota Financial Services Corporation, which commenced operations in April 2001 to coincide with the launch of the credit card business. Through Toyota Financial Services Securities Corporation, Toyota provides financial services including sales of investment trusts and high grade corporate bonds.

All Other Operations

In addition to its automotive operations and financial services operations, Toyota is involved in a number of other non-automotive business activities. Net sales for these activities totaled ¥1,347 billion in fiscal 2008, ¥1,324 billion in fiscal 2007 and ¥1,190 billion in fiscal 2006. Sales to external customers of all other operations represented 2.5% of Toyota’s net revenues for fiscal 2008. Substantially all of Toyota’s revenues from other operations were derived in Japan.

Pre-fabricated Housing

Toyota is also engaged in the manufacture and sale of prefabricated housing. Toyota has adapted the core production systems and methodologies used in its automotive operations to this business. Toyota established its

 

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subsidiary Toyota Housing Corporation in April 2003 and has transferred to it the product planning and sales operations. Furthermore, in order to quickly and accurately grasp clients’ needs and plan, develop and sell products on a timely basis, Toyota transferred the product development operation to Toyota Housing Corporation. In March 2005, Toyota, together with two institutional investors, agreed to jointly invest in Misawa Home Holdings, Inc. pursuant to their request to assist its rehabilitation. The investment takes the form of a subscription of equity shares in the total amount of ¥25.8 billion, of which ¥10.4 billion is subscribed by Toyota. Toyota is further coordinating with Misawa in the development, manufacture and sale of housing and to complement one another in terms of sales area and products. Through these activities, Toyota intends to cater to a wide variety of customer needs and to strengthen the housing business of both companies.

Information Technology

Toyota is involved in developing information technology related products and services through joint efforts with certain telecommunication and information services providers. One of its partner corporations in these development efforts is KDDI Corporation, a telecommunications service provider that offers integrated mobile, domestic and international fixed-line telecommunications services. Toyota currently holds an 11.09% of ownership interest in KDDI.

In addition, Toyota established Toyota InfoTechnology Center Co., Ltd., a joint venture among its affiliates and KDDI, in January 2001. Toyota InfoTechnology Center, U.S.A., Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the joint venture, was established in April 2001. This joint venture focuses on research and development of cutting-edge information technologies that address market needs. Toyota believes these technologies will be integral to the further development of information services businesses, including intelligent transport systems such as the infrastructure cooperative road safety system. Toyota holds a 65% interest in the joint venture. Toyota is making efforts to increase sales of on-board ETC units to promote ITS and KDDI’s telecom-related products (particularly its mobile telephone services).

Toyota also operates a Japanese-language website, Gazoo.com. The name “Gazoo” originates from the Japanese word gazo meaning images. Gazoo was established as a membership Internet service linking Toyota, its national dealer network and Gazoo members, and has provided information on new and used Toyota automobiles and related services as well as online shopping capabilities. Currently, in addition to information on Toyota automobiles, Gazoo provides information on automobile companies, at the same time providing information as a membership automobile portal site with an enhanced blog function. To further expand its motor vehicle information service, Toyota launched the G-BOOK telematics service in Japan in fall 2002 by applying information technology that was developed through Internet information communications services and in August 2005, G-Link that is a service exclusive to Lexus was introduced. Toyota also offers the theft detection service, the vehicle tracking service, the operator support service and so on as standard to enhance services aiming to provide safety, security and comfort for G-BOOK and G-Link users in their lifestyle using automobiles. With G-BOOK mX announced in April 2007, Toyota started offering services that allow drivers to use navigation systems more convenient such as “Map-on-Demand” — the world’s first technology for automatically updating map data. Also, Toyota has further strengthened its ties with Gazoo and G-BOOK and has for example allowed map information searched on a blog on Gazoo.com to be used on G-BOOK, further maturing as a comprehensive telematics service. Toyota has also licensed its G-BOOK technology to certain other competitors in Japan.

In March 2004, Toyota launched its state-of-the-art CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system called e-CRB (evolutionary Customer Relationship Building) in Thailand. e-CRB builds on Gazoo and G-BOOK and consists of a membership-based website and an operation system for dealers. e-CRB offers its customers a variety of services such as providing information of new vehicles, accepting requests for brochures and estimates and notifying customers when it is time for maintenance by keeping track of the vehicle’s maintenance history and mileage. Toyota is currently implementing e-CRB in Thailand, Australia and China where steady progress has been made as the service-in rate (the number of vehicles being serviced in relation to a whole) has increased.

 

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Governmental Regulation, Environmental and Safety Standards

Toyota is subject to laws in various jurisdictions regulating the levels of pollutants generated by its plants. In addition, Toyota is subject to regulations relating to the emission levels, fuel economy, noise and safety of its products. Toyota has incurred significant costs in complying with these regulations and expects to incur significant compliance costs in the future. Toyota’s management views leadership in environmental protection as an important competitive factor in the marketplace.

Vehicle Emissions

Japanese Standards

The Air Pollution Law of Japan and the Road Transportation Vehicle Law and the Act Concerning Special Measures for Total Emission Reduction of Nitrogen Oxides and Particulate Matter from Automobiles in Specified Areas regulate vehicle emissions in Japan. In addition, both the Noise Regulation Law and the Road Transportation Vehicle Law provide for noise reduction standards on automobiles in Japan. Toyota’s vehicles manufactured for sale in Japan comply with all Japanese exhaust emission and noise level standards. In addition, pursuant to the Act Concerning the Rational Use of Energy, Toyota is progressing with efforts to attain certification as “ultra low emission vehicles” for the majority of its automobile models under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s Low Emission Vehicle Approval Standard.

U.S. Federal Standards

The federal Clean Air Act directs the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) to establish and enforce air quality standards, including emission control standards on passenger cars, light trucks and heavy vehicles. The EPA decided in February 2000 to adopt more stringent vehicle emission and fuel economy standards applicable to passenger cars and light trucks produced in model years 2004 and beyond. In the standards adopted for model years 2004 and beyond, manufacturers must guarantee that their vehicles meet the requirements for ten years or 120,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Manufacturers are not permitted to sell vehicles in the United States that do not meet the standards. In April 2007, EPA regulations that further restrict emissions from passenger cars and light trucks operating at cold temperatures became effective. The new emissions standards set by these regulations will be phased in from 2010 to 2013. Similar standards that further restrict emissions from heavy vehicles operating at cold temperatures will be phased in from 2012 to 2015.

Furthermore, in April 2007 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that EPA has the authority to regulate automobile emissions of greenhouse gases. In response to this ruling, the U.S. President ordered EPA to initiate a greenhouse gases rulemaking process. In March 2008, EPA announced plans to begin this rulemaking process.

California Standards

Under the federal Clean Air Act, states are permitted to establish their own vehicle emission control standards if they receive a waiver from EPA. As a result, the California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) established the “Low Emission Vehicle Program” and set emission standards for certain regulated pollutants that were phased in beginning in the 2004 model year. Under these standards most light trucks and passenger cars are required to meet the same emissions standards, which were stricter than the federal standards. As part of the original Low Emission Vehicle Program, the CARB also required that a specified percentage of a manufacturer’s passenger cars and light trucks sold in California for all model years 1998 and after be “zero-emission vehicles” (vehicles producing no emissions of regulated pollutants). The CARB subsequently eliminated the zero-emission vehicles mandate for model years before 2005, and decided to adopt a zero-emission vehicles requirement for model years 2005 and beyond. This zero-emission vehicles requirement also permitted certain advanced technology vehicles such as PHV (Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles), hybrid cars and alternative fuel vehicles that meet “partial zero-emission vehicles requirements” to be granted partial qualification as EV (Electronic Vehicles) or FC (Fuel Cells). Toyota’s battery-powered RAV4 EV compact sport-utility vehicle and the Toyota FCHV qualify

 

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as zero-emission vehicles. The 2004 model Prius, which underwent a model change in 2003, and the 2007 Camry Hybrid qualify as partial zero-emission vehicles under the zero-emission vehicles requirement adopted by the CARB. Toyota intends to continue to develop additional advanced technologies and alternative fuel technologies that will allow other vehicles using such technologies to qualify as zero-emission vehicles or partial-zero-emission vehicles.

In July 2002, the California legislature passed legislation that required the CARB to develop and adopt, by the end of 2004, regulations that achieved the maximum feasible reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. In September 2004, the CARB adopted regulations that required a 20 to 30 percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from passenger vehicles, light trucks and other noncommercial vehicles to be phased in between the 2009 and 2016 model years. However, in December 2007 EPA denied California’s request for a waiver under the Clean Air Act that would have allowed the state to enforce these regulations to control greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles. EPA indicated that its denial of California’s request was part of an effort to focus on implementing the stricter CAFE standards, which are discussed below. In January 2008, California and 15 other states brought a lawsuit challenging EPA’s decision to block implementation of the California greenhouse gas emission regulations. In April 2008, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected an EPA motion to dismiss this suit. The case is pending.

Other States

The states of New York, Massachusetts, Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington have either adopted, or plan to adopt, regulations substantially similar to California’s greenhouse gas emissions regulations. These states are intervening in the lawsuit filed by California challenging EPA’s denial of California’s waiver request.

Canadian and Mexican Standards

Canada has established vehicle emission standards equivalent to the federal standards in the United States, including the heightened requirements that will be applicable to passenger cars and light trucks in model years 2004 and beyond. Mexico’s emission control standards are similar to those applicable in the United States after the 1994 model year, however, emission regulations have become tighter for model years 2007 and beyond. Further regulations on emission are scheduled to match the improved fuel property.

European Standards

The European Union adopted a directive that establishes increasingly stringent emissions standards for passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles in October 1998. Under this directive, the standards adopted beginning with year 2000 require manufacturers to recall any vehicles which fail to meet the standards for five years or 80,000 kilometers, whichever occurs first. Toyota introduced vehicles complying with this directive in 1999. Under further standards adopted in 2005, manufacturers are obligated to meet the more stringent standards for five years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever occurs first. In 2007, the European Parliament adopted more stringent emission standards for passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles. The effective dates for phasing in these stricter standards are September 1, 2009 (Euro 5) and September 1, 2014 (Euro 6). Euro 5 provides for lower emission levels for gasoline and diesel powered vehicles and also extends the manufacturers’ responsibility for emission performance to 160,000 kilometers. The primary focus of Euro 6 is to limit further emissions of diesel powered vehicles and bring them down to a level equivalent to gasoline powered vehicles.

Compliance with new emission control standards will present significant technological challenges to automobile manufacturers and will likely require significant expenditures. Examples of these challenges include the development of advanced technologies, such as high performance batteries and catalytic converters, as well as the development of alternative fuel technologies. Manufacturers that are unable to develop commercially viable technologies within the time frames set by the new standards will lose their market share and will be forced to decrease the number of types of vehicles and engines in their principal markets.

 

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Vehicle Fuel Economy

Japanese Standards

The Act Concerning the Rational Use of Energy (the “Act”) requires automobile manufacturers to improve their vehicles to meet specified fuel economy standards. Toyota has been in compliance with the Act. The Act requires that the actual average fuel economy of cargo vehicles 3.5 tons or more in vehicle weight, passenger vehicles with 11 seats or more and cargo vehicles over 2.5 tons but 3.5 tons or less in vehicle weight, which are designated in Article 75, Paragraph 1 of the Road Transportation Vehicle Law (Law No. 185 of 1951) as type-designated vehicles, comply with the fuel economy standards established thereunder by fiscal 2015, and that the actual average fuel economy of gasoline-fueled passenger vehicles and gasoline-fueled cargo vehicles 2.5 tons or less in vehicle weight for each class based on vehicle weight proposed by each manufacturer complies with the fuel economy standards established thereunder by fiscal 2010. Toyota is promoting the improvement of its vehicles in order to achieve compliance with these standards. Furthermore, Japan has signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and has agreed to take steps to restrain the emission of “greenhouse gases”. Japan ratified the Kyoto Protocol in June 2002, which became effective in February 2005. This protocol requires Japan to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by 6% during the years 2008 to 2012 as measured from the 1990 base year.

U.S. Standards

The Federal Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act requires automobile manufacturers to comply with Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards, commonly referred to as the CAFE standards. Under this law, limits are imposed on the amount of regulated pollutants that may be emitted by new motor vehicles in the United States. A manufacturer is subject to substantial civil penalties if, in any model year, its vehicles do not meet the CAFE standards. Manufacturers that exceed the CAFE standards earn credits determined by the difference between the average fuel economy performance of their vehicles and the CAFE standards. Credits earned for the three model years preceding the current model year, and credits projected to be earned for the next three model years, can be used to meet CAFE standards in a current model year. However, credits earned in respect to passenger cars may not be used for light trucks. Similarly, credits earned in respect to light trucks may not be used for passenger cars. Passenger cars are further divided into the two categories “Domestic” and “Import.” Credits earned in one category may be not applied toward the other category.

In April 2006, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration established CAFE standards applicable to light trucks for model year 2008 and beyond. These CAFE standards aimed to shift the framework from one that used to be advantageous only to compact car manufacturers to one that is fair to full line manufacturers. The requirements were changed so that the CAFE standards are now determined by a sales rate based on vehicle size (measured by the area of the wheel and wheel base) for each manufacturer. In model year 2011, truck CAFE standards will begin to apply to heavier SUVs, vans and other heavier passenger vehicles.

Concern over the impact of carbon dioxide emissions on global warming has drawn attention to the need for reducing the use of fossil fuels, in part by increasing vehicle fuel economy. In order to effectuate a more stringent CAFE standard, the federal government enacted a law in December 2007 that raises the CAFE standard to 35 miles per gallon by 2020 on average for passenger cars and light trucks. Currently, the CAFE standard is 27.5 miles per gallon for cars and just over 22 miles per gallon for light trucks. In response to this new law, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in April 2008 proposed the CAFE standards for model years 2011 through 2015. Under the proposed rules, the same method currently used in determining the applicable CAFE standard for light trucks for model years 2008 and beyond will be used for passenger cars. This method uses sales by vehicle size (wheelbase and track width) of each car manufacturer to determine the applicable CAFE standard. The proposed rule provides flexibility by increasing from three to five the number of years that car manufacturers can carry forward credits earned for exceeding CAFE standards, and allowing manufacturers to transfer the credits from one of their classes of vehicles to another. Furthermore, the CAFE standards for both passenger vehicles and light trucks will increase by 4.5 percent per year for model years 2011 through 2015. Toyota strives to meet the CAFE standards by further developing fuel-efficient technology, alternative fuel technology and other advanced technology.

 

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In addition, the Energy Tax Act of 1978 imposes a “gas guzzler” tax on automobiles with a fuel economy rating below specified levels.

European Standards

The European Union has signed the Kyoto Protocol and agreed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 8% during the years 2008 to 2012, as measured from the 1990 base year. In early 1999, the European Commission and the European Automotive Manufacturers Association (ACEA) agreed on a voluntary engagement which establishes an average emissions target of 140 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer for new cars sold in the European Union. The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association and the Korean Automobile Manufacturers Association have also agreed on a voluntary engagement, similar to that entered into by the European Commission, with the year 2009 as a target year. In December 2007, the European Commission issued a proposal to further regulate vehicle carbon dioxide from 2012 at a fleet average of 130 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer, using a sliding scale based on vehicle weight. This provides different targets for each manufacturer based on their respective fleets of vehicles, weight and carbon dioxide output. For manufacturers failing to meet their targets, a penalty system is proposed of €20 per each gram of carbon dioxide per kilometer shortfall in 2012, rising to €95 in 2015. Manufacturers would be permitted to use pooling agreements to share the compliance burden. This proposal is likely to be finalized by the European Parliament in 2008 or 2009.

The European Commission is also considering setting binding carbon targets for vans not registered as passenger cars or so-called “N-1 vehicles.” The European Commission has also proposed a review of labeling rules as well as a voluntary “code of practice” on car marketing and advertising in order to raise consumer awareness. Some European Union member states have begun to revise their car tax laws to take into account carbon dioxide emission levels. This trend is expected to continue.

Vehicle Safety

Japanese Standards

In March 2005, regulations applicable to compressed hydrogen gas powered fuel cell vehicles were introduced. The regulations involve technology standards such as those relating to collision, prevention of hydrogen leaks and protection from high-voltage.

Regulations relating to pedestrian protection are applicable to all new models manufactured after September 2005 with certain exceptions and vehicles manufactured after September 2010. Frontal offset collision will be required for all new passenger vehicle models manufactured after September 2007 and for all passenger vehicles manufactured after September 2009, and the installation of seat belt reminders is required for driver’s seats of new models manufactured after September 2005 and for all vehicles manufactured after September 2008. In addition, for the purpose of harmonizing with the international standards, driving visibility standards, seatbelt anchorage and seatbelt standards are also expected to be combined with the Economic Commission for Europe (“ECE”) and all cars manufactured after July 2012 are required to meet these standards. All Toyota motor vehicles currently sold in Japan meet or exceed applicable Japanese safety standards.

U.S. Standards

The U.S. National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, or Safety Act, requires vehicles and equipment sold in the United States to meet various safety standards issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Safety Act also authorizes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to investigate complaints relating to vehicle safety and to order manufacturers to recall and repair vehicles found to have safety-related defects. The cost of these recalls can be substantial depending on the nature of the repair and the number of vehicles affected.

The Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability and Documentation Act was enacted in the United States on November 1, 2000. This Act required the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to regulate

 

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the dynamic rollover standards and to upgrade federal motor vehicle safety standards relating to tires. It also required the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to enhance its authority to gather information potentially relating to motor vehicle defects. This Act substantially increases the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s authority to impose civil penalties for noncompliance with regulatory requirements and specifies possible criminal penalties for violations of the federal Fraud and False Statements Act. Under this Act, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration expanded its New Car Assessment Program to implement consumer information programs for vehicle rollover resistance and child restraints and adopted extensive early warning defect reporting requirement in 2002, and strengthened regulations regarding tire-pressure monitoring systems in 2005.

Legislation on transportation budget plan promoting a safe and efficient vehicle safety program for drivers, the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) was passed in August 2005. The legislation requires the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to propose and issue standards to reduce rollover accidents (by October 1, 2006), to complete the creation of standards for reduction of vehicle passenger release from cars at the time of rollover accidents (by October 1, 2009), to upgrade door lock standards (within 30 months after the passage of the bill), to complete the upgrade of roof crash standards (proposal for the standard should be made by December 31, 2005 and the final standard should be decided by July 1, 2008), to decide on the standard on side impact for the improvement of protection performance of vehicle passengers in all seats location (by July 1, 2008), to review a seat belt wearing technology and to complete a study including proposal for improving the rate of seat belt usage (by July 1, 2008), to establish standards to display New Car Assessment Program rating to new cars label (applied on or after September 1, 2007), and to complete the upgrade of the standard for power windows that will require pulling up switches (by April 1, 2007). Some actions have already been taken in response to the above requirements.

In February 2008, legislation to prevent non-traffic related injuries to young children caused by vehicles, the “Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act”, was passed. The legislation requires the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to make rules to ensure safety on all passenger vehicles, including the following: (1) to begin rulemaking to require features that will prevent children from getting caught in power windows (by August 28, 2009) and decide on the standard or on the discontinuance of the rulemaking (by August 30, 2010); (2) to begin rulemaking to require rearward visibility to prevent children from being struck by backing vehicle (by March 2, 2009) and decide on the standard (by February 28, 2011); and (3) to require placing vehicle service breaks on or after September 1, 2010.

Toyota actively invests in technology development designed to increase the safety of its vehicles. Toyota is developing technologies to increase the availability of existing safety systems to all types of its vehicles. These technologies include supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbags, anti-lock braking systems, side airbags, curtain shield airbags, vehicle stability control and other safety features.

European, Canadian and Other Standards

In Europe, following the White Paper “European transport policy for 2010: time to decide” adopted in 2001, which declares targeting to halve the number of deaths caused by road accidents by 2010, various groups in different fields are currently conducting research and analyses. In addition, the “Road Safety Action Programme” adopted by the European Commission in 2003 envisions the reduction in deaths from road accidents by utilizing technological advancement relating to the improvement in vehicle safety. The White Paper and the Action Programme aim to promote the introduction of safety features such as automatic cruise control, speed alert system, intelligent speed limitation devices, alcohol lock, whiplash prevention, collision prevention, universal child restraints system (CRS) and seat belt reminders.

The European Commission and the ACEA have established CARS 21, High Level Group that aims to strengthen the competitiveness of the European automotive industry, and examined the recommendations with the legal framework of a decade later in mind. The CARS 21 final report issued at the end of 2005 contains recommendations relating to the simplification of legislation and road safety, among other issues, and indicates a

 

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Ten Year Roadmap. In addition, in February 2007, the European Commission issued a communication regarding the CARS 21 Final Report, in which concrete action plans for future legislation were announced. The plans called to make it mandatory for all passenger vehicles to be equipped with ISOFIX CRS by 2009. The plans further contemplated making it mandatory for cars to be equipped with Daytime Running Lights (“DRL”), Electric Stability Control, Seatbelt Reminder and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. And finally, the plans mentioned the need for further consideration of the regulation pertaining to roll-resistant tires, the revision of phase-two of the pedestrian protection and the technological feasibility of automatic collision mitigation braking system. In October 2007, the European Commission proposed such new requirements for enhanced (phase 2) pedestrian protection. Thereafter, in May 2008, the European Commission proposed to require new cars from 2012 to have electronic stability control systems, low rolling resistance tires and tire pressure monitoring systems. Heavy vehicles are proposed to have advance emergency braking and lane departure warning systems from 2013. The Commission further proposed to repeal more than 150 existing European Union directives and to replace them with a single regulation aimed to incorporate United Nations standards.

Vehicle safety regulations in Canada are similar to those in the United States. Among the ASEAN countries, in 2006, Thailand and Malaysia acceded to the 1958 agreement of UN regarding safety regulations and both countries plan to develop a legal system in order to incorporate ECE Regulations into domestic laws. Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines will soon follow suit by acceding to the 1958 agreement, thereby ASEAN country will require to comply with the ECE Regulations. Countries in South America regulations and the Middle East have also adopted automobile safety regulations, with South America generally following standards set by the UN, ECE or the U.S., and the Middle East basing their domestic laws primarily on international regulations or legal standards.

Environmental Matters

Japanese Standards

Toyota’s automotive operations in Japan are subject to substantial environmental regulation under the Air Pollution Law, the Water Pollution Control Law, the Noise Regulation Law and the Vibration Control Law. Under these laws, if a business entity establishes or alters any facility that is regulated by these laws, the business entity is required to give prior notice to regulators, and if a business entity discharges or causes exhaust, wastewater, noise or vibration from such facility, the business entity is also required to comply with the applicable standards. Toyota is also subject to local regulations, which in some cases impose more stringent obligations than the Japanese central government requirements. Toyota has complied with these regulations. Under the Waste Disposal and Public Cleaning Law, producers of industrial waste must dispose of industrial waste in the manner prescribed in the Waste Disposal and Public Cleaning Law. Toyota has also complied with the Waste Disposal and Public Cleaning Law.

In February 2003, the Soil Contamination Countermeasures Law became effective in Japan. The Soil Contamination Countermeasures Law stipulates the contamination testing and removal measures that are required when property of former factory or place of business on which prohibited hazardous materials were used are converted to residential areas or other public use. In addition, the Law on Recycling of End-of-Life Vehicles was promulgated in July 2002. Under the Law on Recycling of End-of-Life Vehicles, vehicle manufacturers are required to take back and recycle certain materials of end-of-life vehicles and the provisions concerning such obligations of vehicle manufacturers became effective in January 2005. Toyota has coordinated with relevant parties to establish a vehicle take-back and recycle system throughout Japan. As a result, in fiscal 2007, Toyota achieved a recycling rate of 76% for Automobile Shredder Residue (the legal requirement being 30%) and 94% for air bags (the legal requirement being 85%) and reached the targets set forth in this law.

U.S. Standards

Toyota’s assembly, manufacturing and other operations in the United States are subject to a wide range of environmental regulation under the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Resource Conservation and

 

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Recovery Act, the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 and the Toxic Substances Control Act. Toyota is also subject to a variety of state legislation that parallels, and in some cases imposes more stringent obligations than, federal requirements. These federal and state regulations impose severe restrictions on air- and water-borne discharges of pollution from Toyota facilities, the handling of hazardous materials at Toyota facilities and the disposal of wastes from Toyota operations. Toyota is subject to many similar requirements in its operations in Europe and Canada.

Moreover, the Environmental Protection Agency has promulgated more stringent National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Ozone and Particulate Matter, which define strategies needed to attain the new standards. Toyota expects growing pressure in the next several years to further reduce emissions from motor vehicles and manufacturing facilities.

European Standards

In October 2000, the European Union brought into effect a directive that requires member states to promulgate regulations implementing the following:

 

   

automotive manufacturers shall bear all or a significant part of the costs for taking back end-of-life vehicles sold after July 1, 2002 and dismantling and recycling those vehicles. Beginning January 1, 2007, this requirement became applicable to vehicles sold before July 1, 2002 as well;

 

   

automotive manufacturers may not use certain hazardous materials in vehicles sold after July 1, 2003;

 

   

certified vehicles models sold after December 15, 2008, shall be re-usable and/or recyclable to a minimum of 85% by weight per vehicle and shall be re-usable and/or re-use as material or energy to a minimum of 95% by weight per vehicle; and

 

   

end-of-life vehicles must meet actual re-use and/or recycling of 80% and re-use and/or recovery of 85%, respectively, of vehicle weight by 2006, rising respectively to 85% and 95% by 2015.

A law to implement the directive came into effect in all member states including Bulgaria and Romania which joined the European Union in January 2007. Currently, there are uncertainties surrounding the implementation of the applicable regulations in different European Union member states, particularly regarding automotive manufacturer responsibilities and resultant expenses that may be incurred.

In addition, under this directive member states must take measures to ensure that car manufacturers, distributors and other auto-related economic operators establish adequate used vehicle collection and treatment facilities and to ensure that hazardous materials and recyclable parts are removed from vehicles prior to shredding. This directive impacts Toyota’s vehicles sold in the European Union and Toyota expects to introduce vehicles that are in compliance with such measures taken by the member states pursuant to the directive.

Based on the legislation that has been enacted to date, Toyota has provided for its estimated liability related to covered vehicles in existence as of March 31, 2008. The amount of estimated liability may change depending on the legislation that will be enacted and subject to other circumstances. Although Toyota does not expect its compliance with the directive to result in significant cash expenditures, Toyota is continuing to assess the impact of this future legislation on its results of operations, cash flows and financial position.

The European Union has also issued directives and made proposals relating to the following subjects on environmental matters:

 

   

emission standards that include a framework permitting member states to introduce fiscal incentives to promote early compliance;

 

   

reaffirmation of its goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions; and

 

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reform of rules governing automotive distribution and service. The block exemption on distribution has been amended so that dealers may engage in active sales cross border within the European Union and open additional facilities for sales and services. Additionally, dealers may no longer be required by manufacturers to operate side by side both sales and service facilities.

Toyota believes that its operations are materially in compliance with environmental regulatory requirements concerning its facilities and products in each of the markets in which it operates. Toyota continuously monitors these requirements and takes necessary operational measures to ensure that it remains in material compliance with all of these requirements.

Toyota believes that environmental regulatory requirements have not had a material adverse effect on its operations. However, compliance with environmental regulations and standards has increased costs and is expected to lead to higher costs in the future. Therefore, Toyota recognizes that effective environmental cost management will become increasingly important. Moreover, innovation and leadership in the area of environmental protection are becoming increasingly important to remain competitive in the market. As a result, Toyota has proceeded with the development and production of environmentally friendly technologies, such as hybrid vehicles, fuel-cell vehicles and high fuel efficiency, low emission engines.

In addressing environmental issues, based on an assessment of the environmental impact of its products through their life cycles, Toyota as a manufacturer strives to take all possible measures in each life stage of a product, from development through production and sales, and continues to work toward technological innovations to make efficient use of resources and to reduce the burden on the environment.

Research and Development

Toyota’s research and development activities focus on the environment, vehicle safety, information technology and product development. For a detailed discussion of the company’s research and development policies for the last three years, see “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Research and Development, Patents and Licenses”.

The following table provides information for Toyota’s principal research and development facilities.

 

Facility

  

Principal Activity

Japan   

Toyota Technical Center  

   Planning, design, vehicle evaluation, development of prototypes

Tokyo Design Research & Laboratory  

   Design research and development of advanced styling designs

Higashi-Fuji Technical Center  

   Research and advanced development on powertrains, materials, electronic parts and other matters

Shibetsu Proving Ground  

   Vehicle testing and evaluation

Tokyo Development Center  

   Advanced technology development of electronics
United States   

Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, Inc.  

   Development of the upper body part for a portion of North American manufactured vehicles, adapting vehicles sold in North America to the market, advanced technology research, external affairs for legal and regulatory affairs, certification

 

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Facility

  

Principal Activity

Calty Design Research, Inc.  

   Design development, model production and design research

Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRI-NA)  

   Advanced research relating to “energy and environment”, “safety” and “mobility infrastructure”

Europe

  

Toyota Motor Europe NV/SA  

   Development of the upper body part for a portion of European manufactured vehicles, adapting vehicles sold in Europe to the market, advanced technology research, external affairs for legal and regulatory affairs, certification

Toyota Europe Design Development S.A.R.L.  

   Design development, model production and design survey

Toyota Motorsport GmbH  

   Development of Formula One race cars

Asia Pacific

  

Toyota Motor Asia Pacific Engineering and Manufacturing Co., Ltd.  

   Design, development and evaluation of portions of vehicles that are exclusively sold in Australia and Asia

Toyota Technical Center Asia Pacific Australia PTY, Ltd  

   Design of portions of vehicles that are exclusively sold in Australia and Asia

The success of Toyota’s research and development activities is a key element of Toyota’s strategy. The effectiveness of Toyota’s research and development activities is subject to a number of factors, some of which are not in Toyota’s control. These factors include the introduction of innovations by Toyota’s competitors that may reduce the value of Toyota’s initiatives and Toyota’s ability to convert its research and development into commercially successful technologies and products.

Components and Parts, Raw Materials and Sources of Supply

Toyota purchases parts, components, raw materials, equipment and other supplies from several competing suppliers located around the world. Toyota works closely with its suppliers to obtain the best supplies. Toyota believes that this policy encourages technological innovation, cost reduction and other competitive measures. No single supplier accounted for more than 5% of Toyota’s consolidated purchases of raw materials, parts and equipment during fiscal 2008, except for Denso Corporation, an affiliate of Toyota, which supplied approximately 10% of Toyota’s purchases during fiscal 2008. Toyota plans to continue purchases based on the same principle and does not anticipate any difficulty in obtaining supplies in the foreseeable future.

Toyota has seen a rapid increase in its level of production, with more than 50 overseas operations in 27 countries and regions as of March 31, 2008. Consequently, the distribution network has become increasingly more complex, with procurement of parts and components being carried out not only locally in the country of the production site but also from third-countries. In order to realize timely and efficient distribution at the same time as keeping total costs at a minimum, Toyota is promoting efforts to optimize each stage of the supply-chain. To this end, Toyota has developed a standardized system of global distribution and is supporting the operation of the system at each production base. The use of the global distribution system has enabled Toyota to strive to keep up with the rapid production growth, and to procure parts and components to meet production of any type of models at changing levels of production in a timely manner. These varying efforts, combined together, have led to maximized customer satisfaction, as well as to building a good working relationship with Toyota’s suppliers.

 

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The recent market condition and market price of some raw materials such as steel has shown an upward tendency. In response to the increase, Toyota is making efforts, such as reducing the amount of materials used, in order to lower its costs.

Toyota’s ability to continue to obtain supplies in an efficient manner is subject to a number of factors, some of which are not in Toyota’s control. These factors include the ability of its suppliers to provide a continued source of supplies and the effect on Toyota of competition by other users in obtaining the supplies.

Intellectual Property

Toyota holds numerous Japanese and foreign patents, trademark, design patents and some utility model registrations. It also has a number of applications pending for Japanese and foreign patents. While Toyota considers all of its intellectual property to be important, it does not consider any one or group of patents, trademarks, design patents or utility model registrations to be so important that their expiration or termination would materially affect Toyota’s business.

Capital Expenditures and Divestitures

Set forth below is a chart of Toyota’s principal capital expenditures between April 1, 2005 and March 31, 2008, the approximate total costs of such activity, as well as the location and method of financing of such activity, presented on a “by subsidiary” basis and as reported in Toyota’s annual Japanese securities report filed with the director of the Kanto Local Finance Bureau.

 

Description of Activity

   Total Cost
(billions of yen)
   Location    Method of
Financing

Investment primarily in manufacturing facilities to undertake model changes by
Toyota Motor Corporation

   1,269.7    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in new technology and products by
Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.  

   175.1    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in new technology and products by

    Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.  

   140.3    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in new technology and products by
Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.  

   118.3    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in new technology and products by
Hino Motors, Ltd.  

   108.6    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in new technology and products by
Kanto Auto Works, Ltd.  

   84.0    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in new technology and products by
Toyota Motor Hokkaido, Inc.  

   69.5    Japan    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Thailand Co., Ltd.  

   155.5    Thailand    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc.  

   137.6    United States    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc.  

   127.8    Canada    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Europe NV/ SA  

   100.1    Belgium    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc.  

   97.7    United States    Internal funds

 

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Description of Activity

   Total Cost
(billions of yen)
   Location    Method of
Financing

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.  

   95.4    United States    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota South Africa Motors (Pty) Ltd.  

   93.1    South Africa    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd.  

   69.1    United Kingdom    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia, Inc.  

   65.8    United States    Internal funds

Investment to promote localization by
Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Ltd.  

   61.6    Australia    Internal funds

Investment primarily in leased automobiles by
Toyota Motor Credit Corporation

   3,001.6    United States    Internal funds
and borrowings

Set forth below is information with respect to Toyota’s material plans to construct, expand or improve its facilities between April 2008 and March 2009, presented on a “by subsidiary” basis and as reported in Toyota’s annual Japanese securities report filed with the director of the Kanto Local Finance Bureau.

 

Description of Activity

   Total Cost
(billions of yen)
   Location    Method of
Financing

Investment primarily in manufacturing facilities by
Toyota Motor Corporation

   448.6    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in manufacturing facilities by
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc.  

   103.4    Canada    Internal funds

Investment primarily in manufacturing facilities by
Toyota Motor Europe NV/ SA  

   62.0    Belgium    Internal funds

Investment primarily in manufacturing facilities by
Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.  

   56.0    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in manufacturing facilities by
Hino Motors, Ltd.  

   51.3    Japan    Internal funds

Investment primarily in manufacturing facilities by
Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.  

   47.0    Japan    Internal funds   

Set forth below is additional information with respect to Toyota’s material plans to construct, expand or improve its facilities, presented on a “by facility” basis.

Second Canada Plant. Toyota is constructing a new plant in Woodstock, Ontario, with an annual production capacity of 150 thousand units. In order to meet the demand in the SUV market in North America, the plant is scheduled to produce RAV4 in 2008. The total cost of this plant is expected to be approximately 1.4 billion Canadian dollars.

Mississippi Plant. In February 2007, Toyota announced the construction of an automobile manufacturing plant in Mississippi, which will be its eighth plant in North America. The plant is expected to produce the Highlander SUV with an annual production capacity of 120 thousand units. The total cost of the plant is approximately $1.3 billion and it is expected to commence production in 2010.

Tohoku Region Plant. Toyota decided to build an engine plant in Kurokawa, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. The new plant is scheduled to commence operation at the end of 2010 and is expected to have a production capacity

 

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of approximately 200 thousand gasoline engines per year in the beginning and is expected to increase to approximately 400 thousand gasoline engines per year . The total cost of the plant is approximately ¥50.0 billion with approximately 500 new employees.

Second India Plant. In April 2008, Toyota decided to construct a second vehicle plant in India. This plant is expected to produce the Corolla with an annual production capacity of 100 thousand units and in addition, it is expected to produce passenger cars including compact cars. The total cost of the plant is approximately ¥35 billion and it is expected to commence production in 2010.

Increase in Production Capacity at Guangzhou Plant. Guangzhou Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., Toyota’s joint venture for production with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd., decided to build a second production line to commence production from mid 2009. The second production line is planned to manufacture the Camry and have production capacity of 120 thousand units in the beginning and is expected to increase to 200 thousand units in the future. The total additional cost of the second production line is approximately $380 million.

Toyota does not collect information on the amount of expenditures already paid for each plant under construction because Toyota believes that it is difficult and it would require unreasonable effort to identify and categorize each expenditure item with reasonable accuracy as past and future expenditures. Toyota’s construction projects consist of numerous expenditures, each of which is continuously being adjusted and incurred in variable and constantly changing amounts as part of the overall work-in-progress.

Seasonality

Toyota has historically experienced slight seasonal fluctuations in unit sales. For each of the past three fiscal years, Toyota’s unit sales levels have been highest in March of each year, with approximately 10% to 11% of annual unit sales generated during that month, and for each of the remaining months, its unit sales have generated approximately 7% to 9% of its annual unit sales.

Legal Proceedings

United States Antitrust Proceedings

In February 2003, Toyota, General Motors Corporation, Ford, DaimlerChrysler, Honda, Nissan and BMW and their U.S. and Canadian sales and marketing subsidiaries, the National Automobile Dealers Association and the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association were named as defendants in purported nationwide class actions on behalf of all purchasers of new motor vehicles in the United States since January 1, 2001. 26 similar actions were filed in federal district courts in California, Illinois, New York, Massachusetts, Florida, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Additionally, 56 parallel class actions were filed in state courts in California, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Arizona, Florida, Iowa, New Jersey and Nebraska on behalf of the same purchasers in these states. As of April 1, 2005, actions filed in federal district courts were consolidated in Maine and actions filed in the state courts of California and New Jersey were also consolidated, respectively.

The nearly identical complaints allege that the defendants violated the Sherman Antitrust Act by conspiring among themselves and with their dealers to prevent the sale to United States citizens of vehicles produced for the Canadian market. The complaints allege that new vehicle prices in Canada are 10% to 30% lower than those in the United States and that preventing the sale of these vehicles to United States citizens resulted in United States consumers paying excessive prices for the same type of vehicles. The complaints seek permanent injunctions against the alleged antitrust violations and treble damages in an unspecified amount. In March 2004, the federal district court of Maine (i) dismissed claims against certain Canadian sales and marketing subsidiaries, including Toyota Canada, Inc., for lack of personal jurisdiction but denied or deferred to dismiss claims against certain other Canadian companies, and (ii) dismissed the claim for damages based on the Sherman Antitrust Act but did not bar the plaintiffs from seeking injunctive relief against the alleged antitrust violations. The plaintiffs have submitted an amended compliant adding a claim for damages based on state antitrust laws and Toyota has

 

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responded to the plaintiff’s discovery requests. Toyota believes that its actions have been lawful. In the interest of quickly resolving these legal actions, however, Toyota entered into a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs at the end of February 2006. The settlement agreement is pending the approval of the federal district court, and immediately upon approval the plaintiffs will, in accordance with the terms of the settlement agreement, withdraw all pending actions against Toyota in the federal district court as well as all state courts and all related actions will be closed.

Other Proceedings

Toyota has various other legal actions, governmental proceedings and other claims pending against it, including product liability claims in the United States. Although the claimants in some of these actions seek potentially substantial damages, Toyota cannot currently determine its potential liability or the damages, if any, with respect to these claims. However, based upon information currently available to Toyota, Toyota believes that its losses from these matters, if any, would not have a material adverse effect on Toyota’s financial position, operating results or cash flows.

 

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4.C ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

As of March 31, 2008, Toyota Motor Corporation had 292 Japanese subsidiaries and 238 overseas subsidiaries. The following table sets forth for each of Toyota Motor Corporation’s principal subsidiaries, the country of incorporation and the percentage ownership and the voting interest held by Toyota Motor Corporation.

 

Name of Subsidiary

   Country of
Incorporation
   Percentage
Ownership

Interest
   Percentage
Voting
Interest

Toyota Financial Services Corporation  

   Japan    100.00    100.00

Hino Motors, Ltd.  

   Japan    50.21    50.44

Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.  

   Japan    100.00    100.00

Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.  

   Japan    51.36    51.66

Toyota Finance Corporation

   Japan    100.00    100.00

Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.  

   Japan    56.28    56.31

Kanto Auto Works, Ltd.  

   Japan    50.47    50.79

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.  

   United States    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.  

   United States    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor North America, Inc.  

   United States    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Credit Corporation

   United States    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc.  

   United States    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc.  

   United States    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.  

   United States    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc.  

   Canada    100.00    100.00

Toyota Credit Canada Inc.  

   Canada    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Europe NV/SA

   Belgium    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Manufacturing France S.A.S.

   France    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Italia S.p.A.

   Italy    100.00    100.00

Toyota Kreditbank GmbH

   Germany    100.00    100.00

Toyota España, S.L.

   Spain    100.00    100.00

Toyota Deutschland GmbH

   Germany    100.00    100.00

Toyota France S.A.S.

   France    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Finance (Netherlands) B.V.

   Netherlands    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd.  

   United Kingdom    100.00    100.00

Toyota (GB) PLC

   United Kingdom    100.00    100.00

OOO “TOYOTA MOTOR”

   Russia    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey Inc.  

   Turkey    90.00    90.00

P.T. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia

   Indonesia    95.00    95.00

Toyota Motor Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.  

   Singapore    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Thailand Co., Ltd.  

   Thailand    86.43    86.43

Toyota Leasing (Thailand) Co., Ltd.  

   Thailand    79.17    79.17

Toyota Motor Asia Pacific Engineering and Manufacturing Co., Ltd.  

   Thailand    100.00    100.00

Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Ltd.  

   Australia    100.00    100.00

Toyota Finance Australia Ltd.  

   Australia    100.00    100.00

Toyota do Brasil Ltda.  

   Brazil    100.00    100.00

Toyota South Africa Motors (Pty) Ltd.  

   South Africa    100.00    100.00

4.D PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT

As of March 31, 2008, Toyota and its affiliates produce automobiles and related components through more than 50 manufacturing organizations in 27 countries and regions around the world. The facilities are located principally in Japan, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Turkey, Czech Republic, Thailand, China, Taiwan, South Africa, Australia, Argentina and Brazil.

 

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In addition to its manufacturing facilities, Toyota’s properties include sales offices and other sales facilities in major cities, repair service facilities, and research and development facilities.

The following table sets forth information, as of March 31, 2008, with respect to Toyota’s principal facilities and organizations, all of which are owned by Toyota Motor Corporation or its subsidiaries. However, small portions, all under approximately 20%, of some facilities are on leased premises.

 

Facility or Subsidiary Name

 

Location

  Floor Space
(thousand
square meters)
  Principal
Products or
Functions

Japan

     

Toyota Head Office and Technical Center

  Toyota City, Aichi Pref.   1,300   Research and
Development

Tahara Plant

  Tahara City, Aichi Pref.   1,170   Automobiles

Motomachi Plant

  Toyota City, Aichi Pref.   860   Automobiles

Takaoka Plant

  Toyota City, Aichi Pref.   720   Automobiles

Tsutsumi Plant

  Toyota City, Aichi Pref.   620   Automobiles

Kamigo Plant

  Toyota City, Aichi Pref.   570   Automobile parts

Honsha Plant

  Toyota City, Aichi Pref.   510   Automobiles

Kinu-ura Plant

  Hekinan City, Aichi Pref.   390   Automobile parts

Higashi-Fuji Technical Center

  Susono City, Shizuoka Pref.   300   Research and
Development

Nagoya Office

  Nagoya City, Aichi Pref.   50   Office

Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.

  Ikeda City, Osaka, etc.   1,030   Automobiles

Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.

  Kariya City, Aichi Pref., etc.   1,000   Automobiles

Hino Motors, Ltd.

  Hino City, Tokyo, etc.   950   Automobiles

Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.

  Miyawaka City, Fukuoka Pref., etc.   620   Automobiles

Kanto Auto Works, Ltd.

  Susono City, Shizuoka Pref., etc.   370   Automobiles

Outside Japan

     

Toyota Motor Thailand Co., Ltd.

  Samut Prakan, Thailand   2,370   Automobiles

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

  California, U.S.A.   860   Sales facilities

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc.

  Ontario, Canada   540   Automobiles

Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Ltd.

  Victoria, Australia   230   Automobiles

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc.

  Texas, U.S.A.   210   Automobiles

Toyota is constantly engaged in upgrading, modernizing and revamping the operations of its manufacturing facilities, based on its assessment of market needs and prospects. As market conditions and Toyota’s business objectives evolve, Toyota adjusts its capacity and utilization by opening, closing, expanding or downsizing production facilities accordingly. As a result, Toyota believes it would require unreasonable effort to track the exact productive capacity and the extent of utilization of each of its manufacturing facilities with a reasonable degree of accuracy. Toyota believes that its manufacturing facilities are generally all operating within normal operating capacity and not substantially below capacity.

As of March 31, 2008, property, plant and equipment having a net book value of approximately ¥90,436 million was pledged as collateral securing indebtedness incurred by Toyota Motor Corporation’s consolidated subsidiaries. Toyota believes that there does not exist any material environmental issues that may affect the company’s utilization of its assets.

Toyota considers all its principal manufacturing facilities and other significant properties to be in good condition and adequate to meet the needs of its operations.

See “— Business Overview — Capital Expenditures and Divestitures” for a description of Toyota’s material plans to construct, expand or improve facilities.

 

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ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

5.A OPERATING RESULTS

All financial information discussed in this section is derived from Toyota’s consolidated financial statements that appear elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F. The financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Overview

The business segments of Toyota include automotive operations, financial services operations and all other operations. Automotive operations is Toyota’s most significant business segment, accounting for 89% of Toyota’s total revenues before the elimination of intersegment revenues and 95% of Toyota’s total operating income before the elimination of intersegment revenues and costs for fiscal 2008. The operating income from automotive operations as a percentage of total operating income increased by 4% compared with fiscal 2007 due to an increase in operating income from automotive operations. Toyota’s primary markets based on vehicle unit sales for fiscal 2008 were: Japan (25%), North America (33%), Europe (14%) and Asia (11%).

Automotive Market Environment

The worldwide automotive market is highly competitive and volatile. The demand for automobiles is affected by a number of factors including social, political and general economic conditions; introduction of new vehicles and technologies; and costs incurred by customers to purchase and operate vehicles. These factors can cause consumer demand to vary substantially from year to year in different geographic markets and for different types of automobiles.

The following table sets forth Toyota’s consolidated vehicle unit sales by geographic market based on location of customers for the past three fiscal years.

 

     (Thousands of Units)
     Year Ended March 31,
     2006    2007    2008

Japan

   2,364    2,273    2,188

North America

   2,556    2,942    2,958

Europe

   1,023    1,224    1,284

Asia

   880    789    956

Other*

   1,151    1,296    1,527
              

Overseas total

   5,610    6,251    6,725
              

Total

   7,974    8,524    8,913
              

 

* “Other” consists of Central and South America, Oceania, Africa and the Middle East, etc.

Toyota’s consolidated unit sales in Japan decreased during fiscal 2007 and 2008 as compared to each of the respective prior years reflecting a decline in the overall domestic market. During fiscal 2008, however, Toyota’s market share (including Daihatsu and Hino) including mini-vehicles representing a record high, and Toyota and Lexus’ market share excluding mini-vehicles remained at a high level close to prior fiscal year reflecting the sales efforts of domestic dealers. Overseas vehicle unit sales increased during fiscal 2007 and 2008. During fiscal 2007, vehicle unit sales increased in North America and Europe due to extensive product offerings that catered to regional needs but decreased in Asia due to a decline in certain countries’ markets, such as Indonesia and Taiwan. During fiscal 2008, vehicle unit sales increased in North America, Europe, Asia, and Other reflecting the expansion of production sites, the introduction of vehicle models that effectively meet customer needs and the implementation of various sales measures.

 

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Toyota’s share of total vehicle unit sales in each market is influenced by the quality, price, design, performance, safety, reliability, economy and utility of Toyota’s vehicles compared with those offered by other manufacturers. The timely introduction of new or redesigned vehicles is also an important factor in satisfying customer demand. Toyota’s ability to satisfy changing customer preferences can affect its revenues and earnings significantly.

The profitability of Toyota’s automotive operations is affected by many factors. These factors include:

 

   

vehicle unit sales volumes,

 

   

the mix of vehicle models and options sold,

 

   

the level of parts and service sales,

 

   

the levels of price discounts and other sales incentives and marketing costs,

 

   

the cost of customer warranty claims and other customer satisfaction actions,

 

   

the cost of research and development and other fixed costs,

 

   

high prices of raw materials,

 

   

the ability to control costs,

 

   

the efficient use of production capacity, and

 

   

changes in the value of the Japanese yen and other currencies in which Toyota does business.

Changes in laws, regulations, policies and other governmental actions can also materially impact the profitability of Toyota’s automotive operations. These laws, regulations and policies include those attributed to environmental matters and vehicle safety, fuel economy and emissions that can add significantly to the cost of vehicles. The European Union has enforced a directive that requires manufacturers to be financially responsible for taking back end-of-life vehicles and to take measures to ensure that adequate used vehicle disposal facilities are established and those hazardous materials and recyclable parts are removed from vehicles prior to scrapping. Please see “— Legislation Regarding End-of-Life Vehicles,” “Information on the Company — Business Overview — Governmental Regulation, Environmental and Safety Standards” and note 23 to the consolidated financial statements for a more detailed discussion of these laws, regulations and policies.

Many governments also regulate local content, impose tariffs and other trade barriers, and enact price or exchange controls that can limit an automaker’s operations and can make the repatriation of profits unpredictable. Changes in these laws, regulations, policies and other governmental actions may affect the production, licensing, distribution or sale of Toyota’s products, cost of products or applicable tax rates. Toyota is currently one of the defendants in purported national class actions alleging violations of the U.S. Sherman Antitrust Act. Toyota believes that its actions have been lawful. In the interest of quickly resolving these legal actions, however, Toyota entered into a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs at the end of February 2006. The settlement agreement is pending the approval of the federal district court, and immediately upon approval the plaintiffs will, in accordance with the terms of the settlement agreement, withdraw all pending actions against Toyota in the federal district court as well as all state courts and all related actions will be closed. For a more detailed description of these proceedings, see note 23 to the consolidated financial statements.

The worldwide automotive industry is in a period of globalization, which may continue for the foreseeable future, and in general the competitive environment in which Toyota operates is likely to intensify. Toyota believes it has the resources, strategies and technologies in place to compete effectively in the industry as an independent company for the foreseeable future.

 

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Financial Services Operations

The worldwide automobile financial services industry is highly competitive. The market for automobile financing has grown as more consumers are financing their purchases, primarily in North America and Europe. As competition increases, margins on financing transactions may decrease and market share may also decline as customers obtain financing for Toyota vehicles from alternative sources.

Toyota’s financial services operations mainly include loans and leasing programs for customers and dealers. Toyota believes that its ability to provide financing to its customers is an important value added service. Therefore, Toyota intends to continue to expand its network of finance subsidiaries in order to offer financial services in more countries.

Toyota’s competitors for retail financing and retail leasing include commercial banks, credit unions and other finance companies. Meanwhile, commercial banks and other captive automobile finance companies also provide competition for Toyota’s wholesale financing activities.

Toyota’s financial assets increased during fiscal 2008 from the continued expansion of its financial services operations.

The following table provides information regarding Toyota’s finance receivables and operating leases as of March 31, 2007 and 2008.

 

     Yen in millions  
     March 31,  
     2007     2008  

Finance Receivables

    

Retail

   ¥ 7,005,631     ¥ 6,959,479  

Finance leases

     1,061,738       1,160,401  

Wholesale and other dealer loans

     2,342,926       2,604,411  
                
     10,410,295       10,724,291  

Deferred origination costs

     108,076       106,678  

Unearned income

     (403,191 )     (437,365 )

Allowance for credit losses

     (112,116 )     (117,706 )
                

Total finance receivables, net

     10,003,064       10,275,898  

Less — Current portion

     (4,108,139 )     (4,301,142 )
                

Noncurrent finance receivables, net

   ¥ 5,894,925     ¥ 5,974,756  
                

Operating Leases

    

Vehicles

   ¥ 2,783,706     ¥ 2,814,706  

Equipment

     106,663       107,619  
                
     2,890,369       2,922,325  

Less — Accumulated depreciation

     (640,997 )     (718,207 )
                

Vehicles and equipment on operating leases, net

   ¥ 2,249,372     ¥ 2,204,118  
                

Toyota continues to originate leases to finance new Toyota vehicles. These leasing activities are subject to residual value risk. Residual value risk could arise when the lessee of a vehicle does not exercise the option to purchase the vehicle at the end of the lease term. See discussion in the Critical Accounting Estimates section regarding “Investment in Operating Leases” and note 2 to the consolidated financial statements regarding the allowance for residual value losses.

Toyota primarily enters into interest rate swap agreements and cross currency interest rate swap agreements to convert its fixed-rate debt to variable-rate functional currency debt. A portion of the derivative instruments are

 

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entered into to hedge interest rate risk from an economic perspective and are not designated to specific assets or liabilities on Toyota’s consolidated balance sheet and accordingly, unrealized gains or losses related to derivatives that are not designated are recognized currently in operations. See discussion in the Critical Accounting Estimates section regarding “Derivatives and Other Contracts at Fair Value”, further discussion in the Market Risk Disclosures section and note 20 to the consolidated financial statements.

In addition, aggregated funding costs can affect the profitability of Toyota’s financial services operations. Funding costs are affected by a number of factors, some of which are not in Toyota’s control. These factors include general economic conditions, prevailing interest rates and Toyota’s financial strength. Funding costs increased during fiscal 2007 as a result of higher interest rates and an increase in borrowings, primarily in the United States. Funding costs increased during fiscal 2008 as a result of an increase in borrowings.

Toyota launched its credit card business in Japan at the beginning of fiscal 2002. As of March 31, 2007, Toyota had 6.1 million cardholders, an increase of 0.7 million cardholders compared with March 31, 2006, and as of March 31, 2008, Toyota had 6.6 million cardholders, an increase of 0.5 million cardholders compared with March 31, 2007. Corresponding to the increase in cardholders, the credit card receivables at March 31, 2007 increased by ¥30.0 billion from March 31, 2006 to ¥201.2 billion. The credit card receivables at March 31, 2008 increased by ¥24.5 billion from March 31, 2007 to ¥225.7 billion.

Other Business Operations

Toyota’s other business operations consist of housing, including the manufacture and sale of prefabricated homes; information technology related businesses, including information technology and telecommunications, intelligent transport systems, GAZOO; others.

Toyota does not expect its other business operations to materially contribute to Toyota’s consolidated results of operations.

Currency Fluctuations

Toyota is sensitive to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. In addition to the Japanese yen, Toyota is principally exposed to fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar and the euro and, to a lesser extent, the Australian dollar, the Canadian dollar and the British pound. Toyota’s consolidated financial statements, which are presented in Japanese yen, are affected by foreign currency exchange fluctuations through both translation risk and transaction risk.

Translation risk is the risk that Toyota’s consolidated financial statements for a particular period or for a particular date will be affected by changes in the prevailing exchange rates of the currencies in those countries in which Toyota does business compared with the Japanese yen. Even though the fluctuations of currency exchange rates to the Japanese yen can be substantial, and, therefore, significantly impact comparisons with prior periods and among the various geographic markets, the translation risk is a reporting consideration and does not reflect Toyota’s underlying results of operations. Toyota does not hedge against translation risk.

Transaction risk is the risk that the currency structure of Toyota’s costs and liabilities will deviate from the currency structure of sales proceeds and assets. Transaction risk relates primarily to sales proceeds from Toyota’s non-domestic operations from vehicles produced in Japan.

Toyota believes that the location of its production facilities in different parts of the world has significantly reduced the level of transaction risk. As part of its globalization strategy, Toyota has continued to localize production by constructing production facilities in the major markets in which it sells its vehicles. In calendar 2006 and 2007, Toyota produced 61.1% and 61.4% of Toyota’s non-domestic sales outside Japan, respectively. In North America, 54.7% and 57.2% of vehicles sold in calendar 2006 and 2007 were produced locally,

 

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respectively. In Europe, 70.7% and 64.0% of vehicles sold in calendar 2006 and 2007 were produced locally, respectively. Localizing production enables Toyota to locally purchase many of the supplies and resources used in the production process, which allows for a better match of local currency revenues with local currency expenses.

Toyota also enters into foreign currency transactions and other hedging instruments to address a portion of its transaction risk. This has reduced, but not eliminated, the effects of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, which in some years can be significant. See notes 20 and 21 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding the extent of Toyota’s use of derivative financial instruments to hedge foreign currency exchange rate risks.

Generally, a weakening of the Japanese yen against other currencies has a positive effect on Toyota’s revenues, operating income and net income. A strengthening of the Japanese yen against other currencies has the opposite effect. The Japanese yen, during fiscal 2007, was on average weaker and the Japanese yen, at the end of fiscal 2007, was also weaker, against the U.S. dollar and the euro in comparison to the prior fiscal year. The Japanese yen, during fiscal 2008, was on average stronger against the U.S. dollar in comparison to the prior fiscal year and the Japanese yen, at the end of fiscal 2008, was stronger against the U.S. dollar in comparison to the end of the prior fiscal year. The Japanese yen, during fiscal 2008, was on average weaker against the euro in comparison to the prior fiscal year. The Japanese yen, at the end of fiscal 2008, was also weaker against the euro in comparison to the end of the prior fiscal year. See further discussion in the Market Risk Disclosures section regarding “Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk”.

During fiscal 2007 and 2008, the average value of the Japanese yen fluctuated against the major currencies including the U.S. dollar and the euro compared with the average value of the previous fiscal year, respectively. The operating results excluding the impact of currency fluctuations described in the “Results of Operations —Fiscal 2008 Compared with Fiscal 2007” and the “Results of Operations — Fiscal 2007 Compared with Fiscal 2006,” show results of net revenues obtained by applying the Japanese yen’s average exchange rate in the previous fiscal year to the local currency-denominated net revenues for fiscal 2007 and 2008, respectively, as if the value of the Japanese yen had remained constant for the comparable periods. Results excluding the impact of currency fluctuations year-on-year are not on the same basis as Toyota’s consolidated financial statements and do not conform with U.S. GAAP. Furthermore, Toyota does not believe that these measures are a substitute for U.S. GAAP measures. However, Toyota believes that such results excluding the impact of currency fluctuations year-on-year provide additional useful information to investors regarding the operating performance on a local currency basis.

Segmentation

Toyota’s most significant business segment is its automotive operations. Toyota carries out its automotive operations as a global competitor in the worldwide automotive market. Management allocates resources to, and assesses the performance of, its automotive operations as a single business segment on a worldwide basis. Toyota does not manage any subset of its automotive operations, such as domestic or overseas operations or parts, as separate management units.

The management of the automotive operations is aligned on a functional basis with managers having oversight responsibility for the major operating functions within the segment. Management assesses financial and non-financial data such as units of sale, units of production, market share information, vehicle model plans and plant location costs to allocate resources within the automotive operations.

 

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Geographic Breakdown

The following table sets forth Toyota’s net revenues in each geographic market based on the country location of the parent company or the subsidiary that transacted the sale with the external customer for the past three fiscal years.

 

     Yen in millions
     For the years ended March 31,
     2006    2007    2008

Japan

   ¥ 7,735,109    ¥ 8,152,884    ¥ 8,418,620

North America

     7,455,818      8,771,495      9,248,950

Europe

     2,574,014      3,346,013      3,802,814

Asia

     1,836,855      1,969,957      2,790,987

Other*

     1,435,113      1,707,742      2,027,869

 

* “Other” consists of Central and South America, Oceania, Africa.

Results of Operations — Fiscal 2008 Compared with Fiscal 2007

Net Revenues

Toyota had net revenues for fiscal 2008 of ¥26,289.2 billion, an increase of ¥2,341.2 billion, or 9.8%, compared with the prior year. This increase principally reflects the impact of increased vehicle unit sales, increased financings operations, increased parts sales and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2008. Eliminating the difference in the Japanese yen value used for translation purposes, net revenues would have been approximately ¥26,011.5 billion during fiscal 2008, an 8.6% increase compared with the prior year. Toyota’s net revenues include net revenues from sales of products that increased by 9.5% during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year to ¥24,820.5 billion and net revenues from financing operations that increased by 14.9% during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year to ¥1,468.7 billion. Eliminating the difference in the Japanese yen value used for translation purposes, net revenues from sales of products would have been approximately ¥24,540.1 billion, an 8.2% increase during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year, while net revenues from financing operations would have increased by approximately 15.1% during fiscal 2008 compared to the prior year to ¥1,471.4 billion. Geographically, net revenues for fiscal 2008 increased by 3.3% in Japan, 5.4% in North America, 13.7% in Europe, 41.7% in Asia and 18.7% in Other compared with the prior year. Eliminating the difference in the Japanese yen value used for translation purposes, net revenues in fiscal 2008 would have increased by 3.3% in Japan, 7.6% in North America, 6.8% in Europe, 34.2% in Asia ,and 13.6 % in Other compared with the prior year.

The following is a discussion of net revenues for each of Toyota’s business segments. The net revenue amounts discussed are amounts before the elimination of intersegment revenues.

Automotive Operations Segment

Net revenues from Toyota’s automotive operations segment, which constitute the largest percentage of Toyota’s net revenues, increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥2,249.3 billion, or 10.3% compared with the prior year to ¥24,177.3 billion. The increase resulted primarily from the approximate ¥1,600 billion impact attributed to the vehicle unit sales growth and changes in sales mix, the ¥277.5 billion impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2008, and the impact of increased parts sales. Eliminating the difference in the Japanese yen value used for translation purposes, automotive operations segment net revenues would have been approximately ¥23,899.8 billion during fiscal 2008, a 9.0% increase compared to the prior year. In fiscal 2008, net revenues in Japan were favorably impacted primarily by vehicle unit sales growth in the export markets, which was partially offset by changes in sales mix compared to fiscal 2007. Net revenues in North America were

 

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favorably impacted primarily by vehicle unit sales growth partially offset by fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2008. Net revenues in Europe and Asia were favorably impacted primarily by vehicle unit sales growth and fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2008. Net revenues in Other were favorably impacted primarily by vehicle unit sales growth.

Financial Services Operations Segment

Net revenues in fiscal 2008 for Toyota’s financial services operations increased by ¥197.8 billion or 15.2% compared to the prior year to ¥1,498.3 billion. This increase resulted primarily from the impact of a higher volume of financings mainly in North America, partially offset by the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2008. Eliminating the difference in the Japanese yen value used for translation purposes, financial services operations net revenues would have been approximately ¥1,500.5 billion during fiscal 2008, a 15.4% increase compared with the prior year.

All Other Operations Segment

Net revenues for Toyota’s other businesses increased by ¥23.2 billion, or 1.8%, to ¥1,346.9 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year.

Operating Costs and Expenses

Operating costs and expenses increased by ¥2,309.5 billion, or 10.6%, to ¥24,018.9 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. The increase resulted primarily from the approximate ¥1,300 billion impact on costs of products attributed to vehicle unit sales growth and changes in sales mix, the ¥252.1 billion impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates, the ¥68.1 billion increase in research and development expenses, increased expenses in expanding business operations and increased costs corresponding to the increase in parts sales. These increases were partially offset by the approximate ¥120 billion impact attributed to the net impact of cost reduction efforts, responding to the rise in prices of production materials and parts in fiscal 2008.

Continued cost reduction efforts reduced operating costs and expenses in fiscal 2008 by approximately ¥120 billion, partially offset by increases in the prices of steel, precious metals, non-ferrous alloys including aluminum, plastic parts and other production materials and parts, over what would have otherwise been incurred. These cost reduction efforts relate to ongoing value engineering and value analysis activities, the use of common parts that result in a reduction of part types and other manufacturing initiatives designed to reduce the costs of vehicle production.

Cost of products sold increased by ¥2,096.1 billion, or 11.4%, to ¥20,452.4 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. This increase (before the elimination of intersegment amounts) reflects an increase of ¥2,107.7 billion, or 11.9%, for the automotive operations and an increase of ¥33.4 billion, or 2.9%, for all other operations segment. The increase in cost of products sold for automotive operations is primarily attributed to the increased vehicle unit sales and changes in sales mix, the impact of the increase in parts sales, the impact of the increase in research and development expenses and the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2008, which were partially offset by the impact of continued cost reduction efforts. The increase in cost of products sold for all other operations primarily related to the increase in net revenues.

Cost of financing operations increased by ¥195.9 billion, or 22.5%, to ¥1,068.0 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. The increase resulted primarily from the impact of increased interest expenses caused primarily by an increase in borrowings attributed to business expansion. The increase is also attributed to the impact of losses due to changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that are not designated as hedges and are marked-to-market at the end of each period.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by ¥17.5 billion, or 0.7%, to ¥2,498.5 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. This increase mainly reflects an increase for the financial services operations. The increase for the financial services operations is primarily attributed to the impact of increased expenses.

 

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Research and development expenses (included in cost of products sold and selling, general and administrative expenses) increased by ¥68.1 billion, or 7.6%, to ¥958.8 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. This increase primarily relates to expenditures attributed to the development of environmentally conscious technologies including hybrid and fuel-cell technology, aggressive developments in advanced technologies relating to collision safety and vehicle stability controls and the impact of expanding new models to promote Toyota’s strength in a global market to further build up competitive strength in the future.

Operating Income

Toyota’s operating income increased by ¥31.7 billion, or 1.4%, to ¥2,270.3 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. Operating income was favorably affected by the vehicle unit sales growth, the changes in sales mix, the impact of increased parts sales, continued cost reduction efforts and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. These increases were partially offset by increases in research and development expenses and the increases in expenses due to business expansion. As a result, operating income decreased to 8.6% as a percentage of net revenues for fiscal 2008 compared to 9.3% in the prior year.

During fiscal 2008, operating income (before the elimination of intersegment profits) for significant geographic regions decreased by ¥16.9 billion, or 1.2%, in Japan, decreased by ¥144.3 billion, or 32.1%, in North America, increased by ¥4.2 billion, or 3.0% in Europe, increased by ¥138.8 billion, or 118.0%, in Asia, and increased by ¥60.4 billion, or 72.4% in Other compared with the prior year. The decrease in Japan was mainly due to an increase in expenses including research and development expenses, partially offset by the vehicle unit sales growth in the export markets and continued cost reduction efforts. The decrease in North America was mainly due to an increase in valuation losses on interest rate swaps stated at fair value and the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates partially offset by the increase in production volume and vehicle unit sales and continued cost reduction efforts in the manufacturing operations. The increases in Europe were mainly due to the impact of an increase in production volume and vehicle unit sales, continued cost reduction efforts in the manufacturing operations and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. The increases in Asia were mainly due to the impact of an increase in production volume and vehicle unit sales. The increase in Other was primarily due to the impact of the increase in production volume and vehicle unit sales.

The following is a discussion of operating income for each of Toyota’s business segments. The operating income amounts discussed are before the elimination of intersegment profits.

Automotive Operations Segment

Operating income from Toyota’s automotive operations increased by ¥133.1 billion, or 6.5%, to ¥2,171.9 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. This increase is primarily attributed to the increase in vehicle unit sales, the increase in parts sales, the impact of continued cost reduction efforts and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. This increase was partially offset by the increase in research and development expenses and the increase in expenses due to business expansion.

Financial Services Operations Segment

Operating income from Toyota’s financial services operations decreased by ¥72.0 billion, or 45.4%, to ¥86.5 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. This decrease is primarily due to an increase in valuation losses on interest rate swaps stated at fair value, partially offset by the impact of a higher volume of financing activities.

All Other Operations Segment

Operating income from Toyota’s other businesses decreased by ¥6.6 billion, or 16.6% to ¥33.0 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year.

 

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Other Income and Expenses

Interest and dividend income increased by ¥33.7 billion, or 25.6%, to ¥165.7 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year mainly due to an increase in interest income reflecting an increase in marketable securities.

Interest expense decreased by ¥ 3.2 billion, or 6.5%, to ¥46.1 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year due to a decrease in borrowings in the automotive operations segment.

Foreign exchange gains, net decreased by ¥23.8 billion, or 72.2%, to ¥9.2 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. Foreign exchange gains and losses include the differences between the value of foreign currency denominated sales translated at prevailing exchange rates and the value of the sales amounts settled during the year, including those settled using forward foreign currency exchange contracts.

Other income, net increased by ¥9.9 billion, or 35.1%, to ¥38.1 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year.

Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes increased by ¥13.2 billion, or 1.5%, to ¥911.5 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year primarily due to the increase in income before income taxes. The effective tax rate for fiscal 2008 remained relatively unchanged compared to the rate for fiscal 2007.

Minority Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries and Equity in Earnings of Affiliated Companies

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries increased by ¥28.3 billion, or 56.9%, to ¥78.0 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. This increase was mainly due to an increase in net income attributable to favorable results of operations at consolidated subsidiaries.

Equity in earnings of affiliated companies during fiscal 2008 increased by ¥60.6 billion, or 28.9%, to ¥270.1 billion compared with the prior year. This increase was mainly due to an increase in net income attributable to favorable results of operations at the affiliated companies.

Net Income

Toyota’s net income increased by ¥73.8 billion, or 4.5%, to ¥1,717.8 billion during fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year.

Other Comprehensive Income and Loss

Other comprehensive income decreased by ¥1,115.5 billion, to losses of ¥942.5 billion for fiscal 2008 compared with the prior year. This decrease resulted primarily from a decrease in foreign currency translation adjustments in fiscal 2008 to losses of ¥461.1 billion compared with gains of ¥130.7 billion in the prior year and a decrease in unrealized holding gains on securities in fiscal 2008 to losses of ¥347.8 billion reflecting the decline in the Japanese stock market compared with unrealized holding gains of ¥38.8 billion in the prior year.

Results of Operations — Fiscal 2007 Compared with Fiscal 2006

Net Revenues

Toyota had net revenues for fiscal 2007 of ¥23,948.0 billion, an increase of ¥2,911.1 billion, or 13.8%, compared with the prior year. This increase principally reflects the impact of increased vehicle unit sales, increased financings operations, increased parts sales and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2007. Eliminating the difference in the yen value used for translation purposes, net revenues would have been approximately ¥23,195.8 billion during fiscal 2007, a 10.3% increase compared with

 

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the prior year. Toyota’s net revenues include net revenues from sales of products that increased during fiscal 2007 by 13.0% from the prior year to ¥22,670.1 billion and net revenues from financing operations that increased 30.8% in fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year to ¥1,277.9 billion. Eliminating the difference in the yen value used for translation purposes, net revenues from sales of products would have been approximately ¥21,963.4 billion, a 9.5% increase, while net revenues from financing operations would have increased approximately 26.1% during fiscal 2007 compared to the prior year to ¥1,232.4 billion. Geographically, net revenues for fiscal 2007 increased by 5.4% in Japan, 17.6% in North America, 30.0% in Europe, 7.2% in Asia and 19.0% in Other compared with the prior year. Eliminating the difference in the yen value used for translation purposes, net revenues in fiscal 2007 would have increased by 5.4% in Japan, 13.9% in North America, 19.7% in Europe, and 17.0% in Other, and decreased by 2.4% in Asia compared with the prior year.

The following is a discussion of net revenues for each of Toyota’s business segments. The net revenue amounts discussed are amounts before the elimination of intersegment revenues.

Automotive Operations Segment

Net revenues from Toyota’s automotive operations segment, which constitute the largest percentage of Toyota’s net revenues, increased during fiscal 2007 by ¥2,589.9 billion, or 13.4% compared with the prior year to ¥21,928.0 billion. The increase resulted primarily from the approximate ¥1,200 billion impact attributed to the vehicle unit sales growth partially offset by changes in sales mix, the ¥704.6 billion impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2007, and the impact of increased parts sales. Eliminating the difference in the yen value used for translation purposes, automotive operations segment net revenues would have been approximately ¥21,223.4 billion during fiscal 2007, a 9.7% increase compared to the prior year. In fiscal 2007, net revenues in Japan were favorably impacted primarily by vehicle unit sales growth in the export markets, which was partially offset by changes in sales mix compared to fiscal 2006. Net revenues in North America were favorably impacted by vehicle unit sales growth and fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2007. Net revenues in Europe were favorably impacted primarily by vehicle unit sales growth and fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2007. Net revenues in Asia were favorably impacted primarily by fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2007, which was partially offset by the impact of a decrease in vehicle unit sales. Net revenues in Other were favorably impacted primarily by vehicle unit sales growth due to the IMV series.

Financial Services Operations Segment

Net revenues in fiscal 2007 for Toyota’s financial services operations increased by ¥303.6 billion or 30.5% compared to the prior year to ¥1,300.5 billion. This increase resulted primarily from the impact of a higher volume of financings mainly in North America and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2007. Eliminating the difference in the yen value used for translation purposes, financial services operations net revenues would have been approximately ¥1,254.2 billion during fiscal 2007, a 25.8% increase compared with the prior year.

All Other Operations Segment

Net revenues for Toyota’s other businesses increased by ¥133.4 billion, or 11.2%, to ¥1,323.7 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This increase primarily relates to increased sales attributed to the housing business and the expansion of intelligent transport systems operations.

Operating Costs and Expenses

Operating costs and expenses increased by ¥2,550.8 billion, or 13.3%, to ¥21,709.4 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. The increase resulted primarily from the approximate ¥900 billion impact on costs of products attributed to vehicle unit sales growth partially offset by changes in sales mix, a ¥708.5 billion

 

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impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates, a ¥78.1 billion increase in research and development expenses, increased expenses in expanding business operations and increased costs related to the corresponding increase in parts sales. These increases were partially offset by the approximate ¥100 billion impact attributed to the net impact of cost reduction efforts including the rise in prices of production materials and parts in fiscal 2007.

Continued cost reduction efforts reduced operating costs and expenses in fiscal 2007 by approximately ¥100 billion, partially offset by increases in the prices of steel, precious metals, non-ferrous alloys including aluminum, plastic parts and other production materials and parts, over what would have otherwise been incurred. These cost reduction efforts relate to ongoing value engineering and value analysis activities, the use of common parts that result in a reduction of part types and other manufacturing initiatives designed to reduce the costs of vehicle production.

Cost of products sold increased by ¥2,021.0 billion, or 12.4%, to ¥18,356.3 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This increase (before the elimination of intersegment amounts) reflects an increase of ¥2,005.5 billion, or 12.8%, for the automotive operations and an increase of ¥118.9 billion, or 11.7%, for all other operations segment. The increase in cost of products sold for automotive operations is primarily attributed to the increased vehicle unit sales partially offset by changes in sales mix, the impact of the increase in parts sales, the impact of the increase in research and development expenses and the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates during fiscal 2007, which were partially offset by the impact of continued cost reduction efforts. The increase in cost of products sold for all other operations primarily related to the increase in net revenues.

Cost of financing operations increased by ¥262.4 billion, or 43.1%, to ¥872.1 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. The increase resulted primarily from the impact of increased interest expenses caused primarily by higher interest rates and an increase in borrowings attributed to business expansion in the United States. The increase is also attributed to the impact of losses due to changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that are not designated as hedges and are marked-to-market at the end of each period.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by ¥267.4 billion, or 12.1%, to ¥2,481.0 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This increase (before the elimination of intersegment amounts) reflects an increase of ¥239.6 billion, or 11.9%, for the automotive operations, an increase of ¥35.3 billion, or 15.5%, for the financial services operations and an increase of ¥14.6 billion, or 10.9%, for all other operations segment. The increase for the automotive operations consisted primarily of the impact of increased expenses in expanding business operations and the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. The increase for the financial services operations is primarily attributed to impact of increased expenses and the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates.

Research and development expenses (included in cost of products sales and selling, general and administrative expenses) increased by ¥78.1 billion, or 9.6%, to ¥890.7 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This increase primarily relates to expenditures attributed to the development of environmentally conscious technologies including hybrid and fuel-cell technology, aggressive developments in advanced technologies relating to collision safety and vehicle stability controls and the impact of expanding new models to promote Toyota’s strength in a global market to further build up competitive strength in the future.

Operating Income

Toyota’s operating income increased by ¥360.3 billion, or 19.2%, to ¥2,238.6 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. Operating income was favorably affected by the vehicle unit sales growth partially offset by changes in sales mix, the impact of increased parts sales, continued cost reduction efforts and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. These increases were partially offset by increases in research and development expenses and the impact of business expansion. As a result, operating income increased to 9.3% as a percentage of net revenues for fiscal 2007 compared to 8.9% in the prior year.

 

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During fiscal 2007, operating income (before the elimination of intersegment profits) by significant geographies resulted in an increase of ¥381.3 billion, or 35.4%, in Japan, a decrease of ¥46.0 billion, or 9.3%, in North America, an increase of ¥43.4 billion, or 46.2% in Europe, a decrease of ¥27.9 billion, or 19.2%, in Asia, and an increase of ¥16.3 billion, or 24.3% in Other compared with the prior year. The increase in Japan relates primarily to the vehicle unit sales growth in the export markets partially offset by changes in sales mix, continued cost reduction efforts and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. The increase was partially offset by increases in research and development expenses. The decrease in North America is attributed primarily to the impact of start-up costs relating to the Texas plant, and the impact of losses due to changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments such as interest rate swaps, partially offset by the increase in vehicle unit sales, the impact of cost reduction efforts in the manufacturing operations and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. The increase in Europe relates mainly to the impact of an increase in production volume and vehicle unit sales, cost reduction efforts in the manufacturing operations and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. The decrease in Asia relates primarily to the decrease in production volume and vehicle unit sales. The increase in Other relates primarily to the impact of the increase in production volume and vehicle unit sales mainly attributed to the IMV series.

The following is a discussion of operating income for each of Toyota’s business segments. The operating income amounts discussed are before the elimination of intersegment profits.

Automotive Operations Segment

Operating income from Toyota’s automotive operations increased by ¥344.8 billion, or 20.4%, to ¥2,038.8 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This increase is primarily attributed to the increase in vehicle unit sales, the increase in parts sales, the impact of continued cost reduction efforts and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. This increase was partially offset by, the increase in research and development expenses and the increase in expenses corresponding to business expansion.

Financial Services Operations Segment

Operating income from Toyota’s financial services operations increased by ¥2.7 billion, or 1.7%, to ¥158.5 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This increase is primarily attributed to the impact of a higher volume of financing activities mainly in North America and the favorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates, which was partially offset by the impact of losses due to changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments such as interest rate swaps.

All Other Operations Segment

Operating income from Toyota’s other businesses remained consistent to ¥39.6 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year.

Other Income and Expenses

Interest and dividend income increased by ¥38.0 billion, or 40.4%, to ¥132.0 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year mainly due to an increase in investment securities held by the United States subsidiaries.

Interest expense increased by ¥ 27.7 billion, or 2.3 times to ¥49.3 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year due to an increase in interest expense in the automotive operations segment.

Foreign exchange gains, net increased by ¥22.2 billion, or 3.1 times, to ¥33.0 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. Foreign exchange gains and losses include the differences between the value of foreign currency denominated sales translated at prevailing exchange rates and the value of the sales amounts settled during the year, including those settled using forward foreign currency exchange contracts.

 

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Other income, net decreased by ¥97.6 billion, or 77.6%, to ¥28.2 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This decrease primarily relates to the gain of ¥143.3 billion yen for a nonmonetary exchange of marketable equity securities recorded during fiscal 2006. The gain was calculated in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) No. 91-5 “Nonmonetary Exchange of Cost-Method Investments”, which was determined as the difference between acquisition costs of pre-merger UFJ Holdings, Inc. shares that Toyota had held and the fair market value of post-merger Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. shares that Toyota received in exchange for shares of UFJ Holdings, Inc. following the merger between Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group, Inc. and UFJ Holdings, Inc.

Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes increased by ¥103.2 billion, or 13.0%, to ¥898.3 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year primarily due to the increase in income before income taxes. The effective tax rate for fiscal 2007 remained relatively unchanged compared to the rate for fiscal 2006.

Minority Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries and Equity in Earnings of Affiliated Companies

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries decreased by ¥34.7 billion, or 41.1%, to ¥49.7 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This decrease was mainly due to the decrease of a gain calculated in accordance with EITF 91-5 from the nonmonetary exchange of marketable equity investments related shares of UFJ Holdings, Inc. held by a domestic consolidated subsidiary prior to the merger with Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group, Inc. resulting in the receipt of new shares in the post-merger entity.

Equity in earnings of affiliated companies during fiscal 2007 increased by ¥45.2 billion, or 27.5%, to ¥209.5 billion compared with the prior year due to an increase in net income attributable to favorable operations at the affiliated companies.

Net Income

Toyota’s net income increased by ¥271.9 billion, or 19.8%, to ¥1,644.0 billion during fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year.

Other Comprehensive Income and Loss

Other comprehensive income decreased by ¥344.9 billion, or 66.6%, to ¥173.0 billion for fiscal 2007 compared with the prior year. This decrease resulted primarily from a decrease in unrealized holding gains on securities during fiscal 2007 of ¥38.8 billion compared with unrealized holding gains of ¥244.6 billion in the prior year reflecting an incremental improvement in the Japanese stock market during fiscal 2006 and a decrease in foreign currency translation adjustment gains of ¥130.7 billion in fiscal 2007 compared with gains of ¥268.4 billion in the prior year.

Related Party Transactions

Toyota does not have any significant related party transactions other than transactions with affiliated companies in the ordinary course of business as described in note 12 to the consolidated financial statements.

Legislation Regarding End-of-Life Vehicles

In October 2000, the European Union enforced a directive that requires member states to promulgate regulations implementing the following:

 

   

manufacturers shall bear all or a significant part of the costs for taking back end-of-life vehicles put on the market after July 1, 2002 and dismantling and recycling those vehicles. Beginning January 1, 2007, this requirement will also be applicable to vehicles put on the market before July 1, 2002;

 

   

manufacturers may not use certain hazardous materials in vehicles sold after July 2003;

 

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vehicles type-approved and put on the market after December 15, 2008 shall be re-usable and/or recyclable to a minimum of 85% by weight per vehicle and shall be re-usable and/or recoverable to a minimum of 95% by weight per vehicle; and

 

   

end-of-life vehicles must meet actual re-use of 80% and re-use as material or energy of 85%, respectively, of vehicle weight by 2006, rising to 85% and 95%, respectively, by 2015.

See note 23 to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the United States

In September 2006, FASB issued FAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“FAS 157”), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. Management does not expect this Statement to have a material impact on Toyota’s consolidated financial statements.

In September 2006, FASB issued FAS No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans — an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R) (“FAS 158”). FAS 158 requires employers to measure the funded status of their defined benefit postretirement plans as of the date of their year-end statement of financial position. This provision in FAS 158 regarding a measurement date is effective for fiscal year ending after December 15, 2008. Management does not expect this provision to have a material impact on Toyota’s consolidated financial statements.

In February 2007, FASB issued FAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities — Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115 (“FAS 159”). FAS 159 permits entities to measure many financial instruments and certain other assets and liabilities at fair value on an instrument-by-instrument basis and subsequent change in fair value must be recorded in earnings at each reporting date. FAS 159 is effective for fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. Management is evaluating the impact of adopting FAS 159 on Toyota’s consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, FASB issued FAS No. 141(R), Business Combinations (“FAS 141(R)”). FAS 141(R) establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer recognizes and measures the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, any noncontrolling interest, and the goodwill acquired in a business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase. Also, FAS 141(R) provides several new disclosure requirements that enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. FAS 141(R) is effective to business combinations on and after the beginning of fiscal year beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The impact of adopting FAS 141(R) on Toyota’s consolidated financial statements will depend on the nature and significance of any acquisitions in the future period.

In December 2007, FASB issued FAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements — an amendment of “ARB” No. 51 (“FAS 160”). FAS 160 amends the guidance in Accounting Research Bulletin (“ARB”) No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements (“ARB 51”), to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. FAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The presentation and disclosure requirements shall be applied retrospectively for all periods presented in the consolidated financial statements in which FAS 160 is initially applied. Management is evaluating the impact of adopting FAS 160 on Toyota’s consolidated financial statements.

In March 2008, FASB issued FAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities — an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 changes and enhances the current disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities under FAS 133. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. Management does not expect this Statement to have a material impact on Toyota’s consolidated financial statements.

 

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Critical Accounting Estimates

The consolidated financial statements of Toyota are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires the use of estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. Toyota believes that of its significant accounting policies, the following may involve a higher degree of judgments, estimates and assumptions:

Product Warranty

Toyota generally warrants its products against certain manufacturing and other defects. Product warranties are provided for specific periods of time and/or usage of the product and vary depending upon the nature of the product, the geographic location of the sale and other factors. All product warranties are consistent with commercial practices. Toyota includes a provision for estimated product warranty costs as a component of cost of sales at the time the related sale is recognized. The accrued warranty costs represent management’s best estimate at the time of sale of the total costs that Toyota will incur to repair or replace product parts that fail while still under warranty. The amount of accrued estimated warranty costs is primarily based on historical experience of product failures as well as current information on repair costs. The amount of warranty costs accrued also contains an estimate of warranty claim recoveries to be received from suppliers. The foregoing evaluations are inherently uncertain, as they require material estimates and some products’ warranties extend for several years. Consequently, actual warranty costs will differ from the estimated amounts and could require additional warranty provisions. If these factors require a significant increase in Toyota’s accrued estimated warranty costs, it would negatively affect future operating results of the automotive operations.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Credit Losses

Natures of estimates and assumptions

Sales financing and finance lease receivables consist of retail installment sales contracts secured by passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Collectibility risks include consumer and dealer insolvencies and insufficient collateral values (less costs to sell) to realize the full carrying values of these receivables. As a matter of policy, Toyota maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts and credit losses representing management’s estimate of the amount of asset impairment in the portfolios of finance, trade and other receivables. Toyota determines the allowance for doubtful accounts and credit losses based on a systematic, ongoing review and evaluation performed as part of the credit-risk evaluation process, historical loss experience, the size and composition of the portfolios, current economic events and conditions, the estimated fair value, adequacy of collateral and other pertinent factors. This evaluation is inherently judgmental and requires material estimates, including the amounts and timing of future cash flows expected to be received, which may be susceptible to significant change. Although management considers the allowance for doubtful accounts and credit losses to be adequate based on information currently available, additional provisions may be necessary due to (i) changes in management estimates and assumptions about asset impairments, (ii) information that indicates changes in expected future cash flows, or (iii) changes in economic and other events and conditions. To the extent that sales incentives remain an integral part of sales promotion with the effect of reducing new vehicle prices, resale prices of used vehicles and, correspondingly, the collateral value of Toyota’s sales financing and finance lease receivables could experience further downward pressure. If these factors require a significant increase in Toyota’s allowance for doubtful accounts and credit losses, it could negatively affect future operating results of the financial services operations. The level of credit losses, which has a greater impact on Toyota’s results of operations, is influenced primarily by two factors: frequency of occurrence and severity of loss. For evaluation purposes, exposures to credit loss are segmented into the two primary categories of “consumer” and “dealer”. Toyota’s consumer portfolio consists of smaller balances that are homogenous retail finance receivables and lease earning assets. The dealer portfolio consists of wholesale and other dealer financing receivables. The overall allowance for credit losses is evaluated at least quarterly, considering a variety of assumptions and factors to determine whether reserves are considered adequate to cover probable losses.

 

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Sensitivity analysis

The level of credit losses, which could significantly impact Toyota’s results of operations, is influenced primarily by two factors: frequency of occurrence and severity of loss. The overall allowance for credit losses is evaluated at least quarterly, considering a variety of assumptions and factors to determine whether reserves are considered adequate to cover probable losses. The following table illustrates the effect of an assumed change in expected severity of loss, which we believe is one of the key critical estimates for determining the allowance for credit losses, assuming all other assumptions are held consistent. The table below represents the impact on the allowance for credit losses in Toyota’s financial services operations as any change impacts most significantly on the financial services operations.

 

     Yen in millions
     Effect on the allowance
for credit losses

as of March 31, 2008

10 percent increase in expected severity of loss

   ¥ 6,713

Investment in Operating Leases

Natures of estimates and assumptions

Vehicles on operating leases, where Toyota is the lessor, are valued at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives using the straight-line method to their estimated residual values. Toyota utilizes industry published information and its own historical experience to determine estimated residual values for these vehicles. Toyota evaluates the recoverability of the carrying values of its leased vehicles for impairment when there are indications of declines in residual values, and if impaired, Toyota recognizes an allowance for its residual values. In addition, to the extent that sales incentives remain an integral part of sales promotion with the effect of reducing new vehicle prices, resale prices of used vehicles and, correspondingly, the fair value of Toyota’s leased vehicles could be subject to downward pressure. If resale prices of used vehicles decline, future operating results of the financial services operations are likely to be adversely affected by incremental charges to reduce estimated residual values. Throughout the life of the lease, management performs periodic evaluations of estimated end-of-term market values to determine whether estimates used in the determination of the contractual residual value are still considered reasonable. Factors affecting the estimated residual value at lease maturity include, but are not limited to, new vehicle incentive programs, new vehicle pricing, used vehicle supply, projected vehicle return rates, and projected loss severity. The vehicle return rate represents the number of leased vehicles returned at contract maturity and sold by Toyota during the period as a percentage of the number of lease contracts that, as of their origination dates, were scheduled to mature in the same period. A higher rate of vehicle returns exposes Toyota to higher potential losses incurred at lease termination. Severity of loss is the extent to which the end-of-term market value of a lease is less than its carrying value at lease end.

Sensitivity analysis

The following table illustrates the effect of an assumed change in the vehicle return rate, which we believe is one of the critical estimates, in determining the residual value losses, holding all other assumptions constant. The following table represents the impact on the residual value losses in Toyota’s financial services operations as those changes have a significant impact on financing operations.

 

     Yen in millions
     Effect on the residual
value losses over the
remaining terms of the
operating leases on and
after April 1, 2008

1 percent increase in vehicle return rate

   ¥ 1,202

 

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Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Toyota periodically reviews the carrying value of its long-lived assets held and used and assets to be disposed of, including goodwill and other intangible assets, when events and circumstances warrant such a review. This review is performed using estimates of future cash flows. If the carrying value of a long-lived asset is considered impaired, an impairment charge is recorded for the amount by which the carrying value of the long-lived asset exceeds its fair value. Management believes that the estimates of future cash flows and fair values are reasonable. However, changes in estimates of such cash flows and fair values would affect the evaluations and negatively affect future operating results of the automotive operations.

Pension Costs and Obligations

Natures of estimates and assumptions

Pension costs and obligations are dependent on assumptions used in calculating such amounts. These assumptions include discount rates, benefits earned, interest costs, expected rate of return on plan assets, mortality rates and other factors. Actual results that differ from the assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, therefore, generally affect recognized expense in future periods. While management believes that the assumptions used are appropriate, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect Toyota’s pension costs and obligations.

The two most critical assumptions impacting the calculation of pension costs and obligations are the discount rates and the expected rates of returns on plan assets. Toyota determines the discount rates mainly based on the rates of high quality fixed income bonds or fixed income governmental bonds currently available and expected to be available during the period to maturity of the defined benefit pension plans. Toyota determines the expected rates of return for pension assets after considering several applicable factors including, the composition of plan assets held, assumed risks of asset management, historical results of the returns on plan assets, Toyota’s principal policy for plan asset management, and forecasted market conditions. A weighted-average discount rate of 2.7% and a weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets of 3.4% are the results of assumptions used for the various pension plans in calculating Toyota’s consolidated pension costs for fiscal 2008. Also, a weighted-average discount rate of 2.8% is the result of assumption used for the various pension plans in calculating Toyota’s consolidated pension obligations for fiscal 2008.

Sensitivity analysis

The following table illustrates the effects of assumed changes in weighted -average discount rate and the weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets, which we believe are critical estimates in determining pension costs and obligations, assuming all other assumptions are consistent.

 

     Yen in millions  
     Effect on pre-tax income
for the year ending
March 31, 2009
    Effect on PBO
as of
March 31, 2008
 

Discount rates

    

0.5% decrease

   ¥ (12,386 )   ¥ 127,310  

0.5% increase

     12,028       (109,674 )

Expected rate of return on plan assets

    

0.5% decrease

   ¥ (6,410 )  

0.5% increase

     6,410    

Derivatives and Other Contracts at Fair Value

Toyota uses derivatives in the normal course of business to manage its exposure to foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. The accounting is complex and continues to evolve. In addition, there are

 

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significant judgments and estimates involved in the estimating of fair value in the absence of quoted market values. These estimates are based upon valuation methodologies deemed appropriate under the circumstances. However, the use of different assumptions may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.

Marketable securities

Toyota’s accounting policy is to record a write-down of such investments to net realizable value when a decline in fair value below the carrying value is other-than-temporary. In determining if a decline in value is other-than-temporary, Toyota considers the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than the carrying value, the financial condition and prospects of the company and Toyota’s ability and intent to retain its investment in the company for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.

Outlook

Toyota expects that overall steady growth of the world economy will continue driven by resource-rich countries and emerging countries in fiscal 2009, despite factors such as concerns about the U.S. economic trend, fluctuations in exchange rates and the stock market, and energy and raw material prices trend. Toyota expects that the global automotive markets will remain at the same level as fiscal 2008. Toyota, for purposes of this discussion, is assuming an average exchange rate of ¥100 to the U.S. dollar and ¥155 to the euro. With the foregoing external factors in mind, Toyota expects that net revenues for fiscal 2009 will decrease compared with fiscal 2008 as a result of the assumed exchange rates of a stronger Japanese yen against the U.S. dollar and the euro partially offset by expected increase in vehicle unit sales. A factor increasing operating income is the sales efforts expected to increase vehicle unit sales. On the other hand, factors decreasing operating income such as the assumed exchange rates of a stronger Japanese yen against the U.S. dollar and the euro and the anticipated increase in depreciation expense are expected to exceed the impact of factors increasing operating income. The effects of cost reduction efforts are expected to be offset by increases in the prices of raw materials. As a result, Toyota expects that operating income will decrease in fiscal 2009 compared with fiscal 2008. Also, Toyota expects income before income taxes, minority interest and equity in earnings of affiliated companies and net income will decrease in fiscal 2009. Exchange rate fluctuations can also materially affect Toyota’s operating results. In particular, a strengthening of the Japanese yen against the U.S. dollar can have a material adverse effect on Toyota’s operating results. Please see “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Operating Results — Overview — Currency Fluctuations.”

The foregoing statements are forward-looking statements based upon Toyota’s management’s assumptions and beliefs regarding exchange rates, market demand for Toyota’s products, economic conditions and others. Please see “Cautionary Statement with Respect to Forward-Looking Statements”. Toyota’s actual results of operations could vary significantly from those described above as a result of unanticipated changes in the factors described above or other factors, including those described in “Risk Factors”.

5.B LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Historically, Toyota has funded its capital expenditures and research and development activities primarily through cash generated by operations.

Toyota expects to sufficiently fund its capital expenditures and research and development activities in fiscal 2009 primarily through cash and cash equivalents on hand and increases in cash and cash equivalents from operating activities. See “Information on the Company — Business Overview — Capital Expenditures and Divestitures” for information regarding Toyota’s material capital expenditures and divestitures for fiscal 2006, 2007 and 2008 and information concerning Toyota’s principal capital expenditures and divestitures currently in progress.

Toyota funds its financing programs for customers and dealers, including loans and leasing programs, from both operating cash flows and borrowings by its finance subsidiaries. Toyota seeks to expand its ability to raise funds locally in markets throughout the world by expanding its network of finance subsidiaries.

 

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Net cash provided by operating activities was ¥2,981.6 billion for fiscal 2008, compared with ¥3,238.1 billion for the prior year. The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities resulted primarily from the increase in cash payments of cost of products sold within the automotive and other operations and the increase in cash payments for income taxes, which was partially offset by an increase in cash collection received from the sale of products within the automotive and other operations.

Net cash used in investing activities was ¥3,874.8 billion for fiscal 2008, compared with ¥3,814.3 billion for the prior year. The increase in net cash used in investing activities resulted primarily from the increase in additions to finance receivables, the increase in purchases of marketable securities and security investments and the increase in additions to fixed assets, which was partially offset by an increase in the collection of finance receivables.

Net cash provided by financing activities was ¥706.1 billion for fiscal 2008, compared with ¥881.7 billion for the prior year. The decrease in net cash provided by financing activities resulted primarily from an increase in repayments of long-term debt which was partially offset by increase in proceeds from issuance of long-term debt.

Total capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment, excluding vehicles and equipment on operating leases, were ¥1,480.5 billion during fiscal 2008, an increase of 3.8% over the ¥1,425.8 billion in total capital expenditures for the prior year. The increase in capital expenditures resulted primarily from the impact of higher investments in subsidiaries located in Japan and North America.

Total expenditures for vehicles and equipment on operating leases were ¥1,279.4 billion during fiscal 2008, an increase of 1.2% over the ¥1,264.3 billion in expenditures in the prior year. The increase in expenditures for vehicles and equipment on operating leases resulted primarily from business expansion in the financial services operations.

Toyota expects investments in property, plant and equipment, excluding vehicles and equipment on operating leases, to be approximately ¥1,400.0 billion during fiscal 2009. Toyota’s expected capital expenditures include approximately ¥820.0 billion in Japan, ¥320.0 billion in North America, ¥140.0 billion in Europe, ¥60.0 billion in Asia and ¥60.0 billion in Other.

Based on current available information, Toyota does not expect environmental matters to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations, liquidity or cash flows during fiscal 2009. However, there exists a substantial amount of uncertainty with respect to Toyota’s obligations under current and future environment regulations as described in “Information on the Company — Business Overview — Governmental Regulations, Environmental and Safety Standards”.

Cash and cash equivalents were ¥1,628.5 billion at March 31, 2008. Most of Toyota’s cash and cash equivalents are held in Japanese yen and in U.S. dollars. In addition, time deposits were ¥134.7 billion and marketable securities were ¥542.2 billion at March 31, 2008.

Liquid assets, which Toyota defines as cash and cash equivalents, time deposits, marketable debt securities and its investment in monetary trust funds, decreased during fiscal 2008 by ¥24.3billion, or 0.5%, to ¥4,480.9 billion.

Trade accounts and notes receivable, net increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥16.4 billion, or 0.8%, to ¥2,040.2 billion, reflecting the impact of increased revenues and offset by the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates.

Inventories increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥21.8 billion, or 1.2%, to ¥1,825.7 billion, reflecting the impact of increased volumes offset by the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates.

 

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Total finance receivables, net increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥272.8 billion, or 2.7%, to ¥10,275.8 billion. The increase in finance receivables, net resulted from the increase in wholesale, the increase in other dealer loans including real estate loans and working capital financing provided to dealers, and the increase in finance leases offset by the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates. As of March 31, 2008, finance receivables were geographically distributed as follows: in North America 61.9%, in Europe 13.1%, in Japan 12.6%, in Asia 4.0% and in Other 8.4%. Toyota maintains programs to sell finance receivables through special purpose entities and obtained proceeds from securitization transactions, net of purchased and retained interests which totaled ¥91.3 billion during fiscal 2008.

Marketable securities and other securities investments, including those included in current assets, decreased during fiscal 2008 by ¥293.9 billion, or 6.9%, primarily reflecting the decrease in fair value of these securities and investments.

Property, plant and equipment increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥48.0 billion, or 0.6%, primarily reflecting an increase in capital expenditures which was partially offset by the depreciation charges during the year and the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates.

Accounts payable increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥1.2 billion, or 0.1%, reflecting the impact of increased trading volumes offset by the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates.

Accrued expenses decreased during fiscal 2008 by ¥61.4 billion, or 3.7%, reflecting the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency translation rates offset by the increase in expenses due to the expansion of the business.

Income taxes payable decreased during fiscal 2008 by ¥115.6 billion, or 27.4%, principally as a result of the timing of cash payments for income taxes.

Toyota’s total borrowings increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥81.0 billion, or 0.7%. Toyota’s short-term borrowings consist of loans with a weighted-average interest rate of 3.36% and commercial paper with a weighted-average interest rate of 3.76%. Short-term borrowings increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥55.4 billion, or 1.6%, to ¥3,552.7 billion. Toyota’s long-term debt consists of unsecured and secured loans, medium-term notes, unsecured notes and long-term capital lease obligations with interest rates ranging from 0.17% to 28.00%, and maturity dates ranging from 2008 to 2047. The current portion of long-term debt increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥307.3 billion, or 13.0%, to ¥2,675.4 billion and the non-current portion decreased by ¥281.6 billion, or 4.5%, to ¥5,981.9 billion. The increase in total borrowings reflects the expansion of the financial services operations. As of March 31, 2008, approximately 34% of long-term debt was denominated in U.S. dollars, 24% in Japanese yen, 10% in euros and 32% in other currencies. Toyota hedges fixed rate exposure by entering into interest rate swaps. There are no material seasonal variations in Toyota’s borrowings requirements.

As of March 31, 2008, Toyota’s total interest bearing debt was 102.9% of total shareholders’ equity, compared to 102.5% as of March 31, 2007.

Toyota’s long-term debt was rated “AAA” by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Group, “Aaa” by Moody’s Investors Services and “AAA” by Rating and Investment Information, Inc. as of March 31, 2008. These ratings represent the highest long-term debt ratings published by each of the rating agencies. A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. A credit rating may be subject to withdrawal or revision at any time. Each rating should be evaluated separately of any other rating.

Toyota’s unfunded pension liabilities increased during fiscal 2008 by ¥128.6 billion, or 45.5% to ¥411.1 billion. The unfunded pension liabilities relate primarily to the parent company and its Japanese subsidiaries. The unfunded amounts will be funded through future cash contributions by Toyota or in some cases will be funded on the retirement date of each covered employee. The unfunded pension liabilities increased in fiscal 2008 compared to the prior year mainly due to the decrease in the market value of plan assets. See note 19 to the consolidated financial statements regarding employee benefit plans.

 

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Toyota’s treasury policy is to maintain controls on all exposures, to adhere to stringent counterparty credit standards, and to actively monitor marketplace exposures. Toyota remains centralized, and is pursuing global efficiency of its financial services operations through Toyota Financial Services Corporation.

The key element of Toyota’s financial policy is maintaining a strong financial position that will allow Toyota to fund its research and development initiatives, capital expenditures and financing operations on a cost effective basis even if earnings experience short-term fluctuations. Toyota believes that it maintains sufficient liquidity for its present requirements and that by maintaining its high credit ratings, it will continue to be able to access funds from external sources in large amounts and at relatively low costs. Toyota’s ability to maintain its high credit ratings is subject to a number of factors, some of which are not within Toyota’s control. These factors include general economic conditions in Japan and the other major markets in which Toyota does business, as well as Toyota’s successful implementation of its business strategy.

5.C RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES

Toyota’s research and development activities focus on the environment, vehicle safety, information technology and product development.

Toyota’s environmental research and development activities focus on:

 

   

Developing light weight and more fuel-efficient engines and transmissions. These technologies include the direct injection four-stroke gasoline engine, the nitrous oxide storage reduction catalytic system, the common rail direct injection diesel engine and the diesel particulate and nitrous oxide reduction system.

 

   

Developing alternative fuel powering systems for commercial sale. This includes developing hybrid vehicles and fuel cell hybrid vehicles. The second-generation Prius that Toyota introduced in September 2003 features a new hybrid system which decreases negative environmental impact while increasing power and performance. In July 2007, Toyota developed the Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) and received certification from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). PHV runs as an Electric Vehicle (EV) in short distances and runs as a regular hybrid vehicle in long distances. Tests are conducted in Japan, North America and Europe and by 2010, Toyota plans to sell PHVs with lithium ion batteries to fleet vehicle users in Japan, North America and Europe. In June 2005, Toyota’s new fuel cell hybrid passenger vehicle became the first vehicle in Japan to acquire vehicle type certification under the Road Vehicles Act, as amended on March 31, 2005, by MLIT. Toyota is also working on the development of alternative fuels for vehicles fueled by compressed natural gas and liquid petroleum gas, as well as for flexible fuel vehicles which are recently drawing a lot of attention. Other Toyota efforts in this area include the development of vehicles fueled by compressed natural gas and other alternative fuel vehicles. Toyota has also been conducting a wide range of research and study on alternative fuel such as biofuel, including cellulose ethanol and hydrogenized bio-diesel, and utilizing it in developing alternative-fuel vehicles.

 

   

Recycling of vehicle parts through the development of recycling technologies. Work in this area includes developing uses for shredder residue, the recycling of nickel-metal hydride batteries and the development of vehicles constructed with a high proportion of recyclable parts.

Toyota’s work in the area of vehicle safety is focused on the development of technologies designed to prevent accidents in the first instance, as well as the development of technologies that protect passengers and reduce the damage on impact in the event of an accident. Safety technologies in development include:

 

   

research on protecting diverse passengers, including senior citizens,

 

   

autonomous driving support systems, including frontal crash-prevention support systems, and

 

   

data exchange driving-support systems using advanced communication technologies.

 

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To expand the frontiers of safety technology in automobiles, Toyota completed in 1995 its first prototype Advanced Safety Vehicle, the ASV-1. The ASV-2, which was introduced in 2000, incorporates emerging technologies, such as an autonomous safety support system that uses CCD stereo cameras to recognize obstacles in traffic lanes and an infrastructure-harmonized safety support system to warn the driver of pedestrian crossings. In 2002, Toyota conducted road testing of the ASV-3, a prototype based on further improved infrastructure-harmonized system. With the February 2003 introduction of the Harrier models in Japan, Toyota became the first car manufacturer to implement a pre-crash safety system in its automobiles. This advanced system consists of pre-crash sensors that use millimeter wave radar to detect a possible collision, seat belts that tighten their hold on passengers when a collision is determined to be inevitable and a brake assist system that utilizes power-assisted braking to minimize the speed on impact. In February 2004, Toyota introduced the pre-collision safety system for the first time in the United States by equipping the LS430 with the above features and suspension control features that control nose dives when applying the brakes.

In September 2006, at the time of introduction of LS460 in Japan, Toyota established the world’s first enhanced pre-crash safety system, which added functions to detect pedestrians in front, to support driver steering, and to react to vehicle collision.

Furthermore, in February 2008, Toyota developed the world’s first driver monitoring pre-crash safety system for the Crown sold in Japan, that monitors whether the driver’s eyes are open, in addition to the face monitor which monitors the direction in which the driver is facing.

Toyota’s product development program uses a series of methods which are generally intended to promote timely and appropriate responses to changing market demand. These methods include:

 

   

optimizing and eliminating vehicle platforms,

 

   

sharing parts and components among multiple vehicles,

 

   

shortening the time for development and production preparation by the simultaneous study of design and production engineering processes, and

 

   

using computers for production design and evaluation.

In September 2002, Toyota and Nissan Motor Co. entered into an agreement setting forth the basic terms of technical cooperation and other long-term projects involving hybrid systems. This agreement calls for Toyota to supply state-of-the-art hybrid system components to Nissan for 5 years starting from 2006. In addition, with the aim of promoting technical cooperation, both companies agreed to exchange information on hybrid systems that both Toyota and Nissan are currently developing independently, and to discuss the joint development of related parts and components. In March 2004, Toyota and Ford Motor Company announced that they have entered into licensing agreements for patents related to hybrid systems and emissions purification. Pursuant to the agreements, Toyota will license, to Ford Motor Company, patents related to hybrid system control technology. Further, both companies agreed to a cross-licensing arrangement of emission purification technology patents for lean-burn engines.

Toyota’s research and development expenditures were approximately ¥959 billion in fiscal 2008, ¥891 billion in fiscal 2007 and ¥813 billion in fiscal 2006. Worldwide, approximately 34,000 employees are involved in Toyota’s research and development activities.

Toyota does not consider any one group of patents or licenses to be so important that their expiration or termination would materially affect Toyota’s business. For a further discussion of Toyota’s intellectual property, see “Information on the Company — Business Overview — Intellectual Property”.

5.D TREND INFORMATION

For a discussion of the trends that affect Toyota’s business and operating results, see “— Operating Results” and “— Liquidity and Capital Resources”.

 

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5.E OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Toyota uses its securitization program as part of its funding for its financial services operations. See note 7 to the consolidated financial statements regarding the finance receivables.

Lending Commitments

Credit facilities with credit card holders

Toyota’s financial services operation issues credit cards to customers. As customary for credit card businesses, Toyota maintains credit facilities with holders of credit cards issued by Toyota. These facilities are used upon each holders’ requests up to the limits established on an individual holder’s basis. Although loans made to customers through this facility are not secured, for the purposes of minimizing credit risks and of appropriately establishing credit limits for each individual credit card holder, Toyota employs its own risk management policy which includes an analysis of information provided by financial institutions in alliance with Toyota. Toyota periodically reviews and revises, as appropriate, these credit limits. Outstanding credit facilities with credit card holders were ¥1,967.0 billion as of March 31, 2008.

Credit facilities with dealers

Toyota’s financial services operation maintains credit facilities with dealers. These credit facilities may be used for business acquisitions, facilities refurbishment, real estate purchases, and working capital requirements. These loans are typically collateralized with liens on real estate, vehicle inventory, and/or other dealership assets, as appropriate. Toyota obtains a personal guarantee from the dealer or corporate guarantee from the dealership when deemed prudent. Although the loans are typically collateralized or guaranteed, the value of the underlying collateral or guarantees may not be sufficient to cover Toyota’s exposure under such agreements. Toyota prices the credit facilities according to the risks assumed in entering into the credit facility. Toyota’s financial services operation also provides financing to various multi-franchise dealer organizations, referred to as dealer groups, often as part of a lending consortium, for wholesale inventory financing, business acquisitions, facilities refurbishment, real estate purchases, and working capital requirements. Toyota’s outstanding credit facilities with dealers totaled ¥1,715.0 billion as of March 31, 2008.

Guarantees

Toyota enters into certain guarantee contracts with its dealers to guarantee customers’ payments of their installment payables that arise from installment contracts between customers and Toyota dealers, as and when requested by Toyota dealers. Guarantee periods are set to match the maturity of installment payments, and at March 31, 2008, ranged from one month to 35 years. However, they are generally shorter than the useful lives of products sold. Toyota is required to execute its guarantee primarily when customers are unable to make required payments. The maximum potential amount of future payments as of March 31, 2008 is ¥1,460.3 billion. Liabilities for these guarantees of ¥3.9 billion have been provided as of March 31, 2008. Under these guarantee contracts, Toyota is entitled to recover any amounts paid by it from the customers whose obligations it guaranteed.

5.F TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

For information regarding debt obligations, capital lease obligations, operating lease obligations and other obligations, including amounts maturing in each of the next five years, see notes 13, 22 and 23 to the consolidated financial statements. In addition, as part of Toyota’s normal business practices, Toyota enters into long-term arrangements with suppliers for purchases of certain raw materials, components and services. These arrangements may contain fixed/minimum quantity purchase requirements. Toyota enters into such arrangements to facilitate an adequate supply of these materials and services.

 

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The following tables summarize Toyota’s contractual obligations and commercial commitments as of March 31, 2008:

     Yen in millions
          Payments Due by Period
     Total    Less than
1 year
   1 to 3 years    3 to 5 years    5 years
and after

Contractual Obligations:

              

Short-term borrowings (note 13)

              

Loans

   ¥ 1,226,717    ¥ 1,226,717         

Commercial paper

     2,326,004      2,326,004         

Long-term debt* (note 13)

     8,613,799      2,668,022    ¥ 3,418,054    ¥ 1,376,392    ¥ 1,151,331

Capital lease obligations (note 13)

     43,563      7,409      31,912      2,963      1,279

Non-cancelable operating lease obligations (note 22)

     54,451      11,335      16,293      10,439      16,384

Commitments for the purchase of property, plant and other assets (note 23)

     173,720      122,833      15,682      17,560      17,645
                                  

Total

   ¥ 12,438,254    ¥ 6,362,320    ¥ 3,481,941    ¥ 1,407,354    ¥ 1,186,639
                                  

 

* “Long-term debt” represents future principal payments.

 

     Toyota is unable to make reasonable estimates of the period of cash settlement, and accordingly liabilities recognized for uncertain tax benefits are excluded from the table above. See note 16 to the consolidated financial statements regarding the income taxes.

Toyota expects to contribute ¥153,030 million to its pension plans in fiscal 2009.

 

     Yen in millions
          Amount of Commitment Expiration Per Period
     Total
Amounts
Committed
   Less than
1 year
   1 to 3
years
   3 to 5
years
   5 years
and after

Commercial Commitments:

              

Maximum potential exposure to guarantees given in the ordinary course of business (note 23)

   ¥ 1,460,362    ¥ 439,974    ¥ 667,914    ¥ 273,575    ¥ 78,899
                                  

Total Commercial Commitments

   ¥ 1,460,362    ¥ 439,974    ¥ 667,914    ¥ 273,575    ¥ 78,899
                                  

5.G SAFE HARBOR

All information that is not historical in nature disclosed under “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements” and “— Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations” is deemed to be a forward-looking statement. See “Cautionary Statement with Respect to Forward-Looking Statements” for additional information.

 

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ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

6.A DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

In June 2003, Toyota implemented a comprehensive reorganization of its senior management structure. As part of this reorganization, Toyota introduced a streamlined board of directors and established the new position of non-board managing officer. At the June 2008 ordinary general shareholders’ meeting, 30 directors were appointed to serve on the board of directors. Senior Managing Directors not only serve as members of the board to participate in the management of Toyota but also serve as the highest authorities in their respective areas of supervision and oversee the daily operations of specific fields/divisions in conjunction with non-board managing officers. This allows Senior Managing Directors to serve as a conduit between management and daily operations. The 50 non-board managing officers generally have responsibility for Toyota’s daily operations in specific fields/divisions and report to the designated Senior Managing Directors, and are appointed for one-year terms. Toyota believes that this management system has enhanced its global competitiveness by promoting timely, hands-on decision-making for day-to-day operational matters. Toyota has seven corporate auditors, four of whom are outside corporate auditors.

 

Name

   Age   

Title

   Date First Elected
to Board or as Auditor

Fujio Cho

   71    Chairman of the Board    September 1988

Katsuhiro Nakagawa

   66    Vice Chairman of the Board    June 2001

Kazuo Okamoto

   64    Vice Chairman of the Board    June 1996

Katsuaki Watanabe

   66    President, Member of the Board    September 1992

Kyoji Sasazu

   64    Executive Vice President, Member of the Board    June 1997

Mitsuo Kinoshita

   62    Executive Vice President, Member of the Board    June 1997

Takeshi Uchiyamada

   61    Executive Vice President, Member of the Board    June 1998

Masatami Takimoto

   62    Executive Vice President, Member of the Board    June 1999

Akio Toyoda

   52    Executive Vice President, Member of the Board    June 2000

Yukitoshi Funo

   61    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2000

Atsushi Niimi

   60    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2000

Hiroshi Takada

   61    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2001

Teiji Tachibana

   61    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2001

Shinichi Sasaki

   61    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2001

Akira Okabe

   60    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2001

Yoichiro Ichimaru

   59    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2001

Shoji Ikawa

   58    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2001

Koichi Ina

   60    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2002

Shinzo Kobuki

   58    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2007

Akira Sasaki

   60    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2007

Tadashi Arashima

   58    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2007

Mamoru Furuhashi

   58    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2007

Satoshi Ozawa

   58    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2007

Iwao Nihashi

   58    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2008

Yasuhiko Ichihashi

   56    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2008

Tadashi Yamashina

   57    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2008

Takahiko Ijichi

   55    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2008

Tetsuo Agata

   55    Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board    June 2008

Shoichiro Toyoda

   83    Honorary Chairman, Member of the Board    July 1952

Hiroshi Okuda

   75    Senior Advisor, Member of the Board    July 1982

Yoshikazu Amano

   59    Corporate Auditor    June 2007

Chiaki Yamaguchi

   58    Corporate Auditor    June 2003

Masaki Nakatsugawa

   55    Corporate Auditor    June 2006

Yoichi Kaya

   74    Corporate Auditor    June 2003

Yoichi Morishita

   74    Corporate Auditor    June 2006

Akishige Okada

   70    Corporate Auditor    June 2006

Kunihiro Matsuo

   65    Corporate Auditor    June 2007

The term of each director listed above expires in June 2009.

 

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Biographies

Fujio Cho was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 1988 and has served as the Chairman of the Board since 2006. Mr. Cho served as the Vice Chairman of the Board from 2005 to 2006, the President, Member of the Board from 1999 to 2005, an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board from 1998 to 1999, and as the President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, U.S.A., Inc. from 1988 to 1994. Mr. Cho also serves as a Director of Central Japan Railway Company and Sony Corporation. Mr. Cho joined Toyota in 1960.

Katsuhiro Nakagawa was appointed as a Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 2001 and has served as the Vice Chairman of the Board since 2004. Mr. Nakagawa served as an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board between 2003 and 2004. Mr. Nakagawa served as the Executive Advisor of The Tokio Marine and Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. between 1998 and 2001. Mr. Nakagawa was the Vice Minister for International Affairs at the former Japanese Ministry of International Trade and Industry before joining The Tokio Marine and Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. Mr. Nakagawa joined Toyota in 2001.

Kazuo Okamoto was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 1996 and has served as the Vice Chairman of the Board since 2008. Mr. Okamoto served as an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board between 2005 and 2008. Mr. Okamoto also serves as a Director of Toyota Boshoku Corporation. Mr. Okamoto joined Toyota in 1967.

Katsuaki Watanabe was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 1992 and has served as the President, Member of the Board since 2005 and an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board from 2001 to 2005. Mr. Watanabe also serves as a Director of Mitsubishi UFJ Securities Co., Ltd. Mr. Watanabe joined Toyota in 1964.

Kyoji Sasazu was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 1997 and has served as an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board since 2005. Mr. Sasazu joined Toyota in 1967.

Mitsuo Kinoshita was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 1997 and has served as an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board since 2005. Mr. Kinoshita also serves as a Director of Aioi Insurance Co., Ltd. and also serves as a Director of New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. Mr. Kinoshita joined Toyota in 1968.

Takeshi Uchiyamada was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 1998 and has served as an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board since 2005. Mr. Uchiyamada also serves as a Director of JTEKT Corporation. Mr. Uchiyamada also serves as the Chairman of Toyota Motor Technical Center (China) Co., Ltd. Mr. Uchiyamada joined Toyota in 1969.

Masatami Takimoto was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 1999 and has served as an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board since 2005. Mr. Takimoto joined Toyota in 1970.

Akio Toyoda was appointed as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation in 2000 and has served as an Executive Vice President, Member of the Board since 2005. Mr. Toyoda also serves as the Director of Toyota Motor Europe NV/SA. Mr. Toyoda joined Toyota in 1984.

Yukitoshi Funo has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board since 2005. Mr. Funo has served as the Chief Americas Operations Officer since 2007. Mr. Funo has also served as the Chairman of the Board of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. since 2005 and as the President from 2003 to 2005. Mr. Funo served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2000 to 2003, as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2004 and as a Director from 2004 to 2005. Mr. Funo joined Toyota in 1970.

 

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Atsushi Niimi has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board since 2005. Mr. Niimi has served as the Chief Purchasing Officer since 2007. Mr. Niimi served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2000 to 2003, as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2004 and as a Director from 2004 to 2005. Mr. Niimi joined Toyota in 1971.

Hiroshi Takada has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2005. Mr. Takada has also served as the Chief Global Planning Operations Officer since 2006. Mr. Takada served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2001 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2005. Mr. Takada joined Toyota in 1969.

Teiji Tachibana has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2005. Mr. Tachibana has also served as the Chief Government & Public Affairs Officer since 2006 and as the Chief Housing Operations Officer since 2005. Mr. Tachibana served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2001 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2005. Mr. Tachibana joined Toyota in 1969.

Shinichi Sasaki has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2005. Mr. Sasaki has also served as the Chief IT & ITS Officer and Chief Customer Service Officer since 2008. Mr. Sasaki served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2001 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2005. Mr. Sasaki joined Toyota in 1970.

Akira Okabe has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2005. Mr. Okabe has also served as the Chief Asia, Oceania & Middle East Operations Officer since 2005. Mr. Okabe served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2001 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2005. Mr. Okabe joined Toyota in 1971.

Yoichiro Ichimaru has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2005. Mr. Ichimaru has also served as the Chief Japan Sales Operations Officer since 2005. Mr. Ichimaru served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2001 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2005. Mr. Ichimaru joined Toyota in 1971.

Shoji Ikawa has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2005. Mr. Ikawa has also served as the Deputy Chief Fuel Cell System Development Officer since 2007 and Chief Production Engineering Officer since 2005. Mr. Ikawa served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2001 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2005. Mr. Ikawa joined Toyota in 1975.

Koichi Ina has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Ina has also served as the Chief Strategic Production Planning Officer and the Chief Manufacturing Officer since 2007. Mr. Ina served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2002 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2007. Mr. Ina joined Toyota in 1973.

Shinzo Kobuki has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Kobuki has also served as Chief R&D Group 2 Officer since 2008. Mr. Kobuki served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2007. Mr. Kobuki joined Toyota in 1972.

Akira Sasaki has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Sasaki has also served as the Chief China Operations Officer since 2007. Mr. Sasaki has served as the Chairman of Toyota Motor (China), Investment Co., Ltd. Mr. Sasaki has served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2007. Mr. Sasaki joined Toyota in 1970.

Tadashi Arashima has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Arashima has also served as the Chief Europe & Africa Operations Officer since

 

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2007. Mr. Arashima has served as the President of Toyota Motor Europe NV/SA since 2006. Mr. Arashima served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2007. Mr. Arashima joined Toyota in 1973.

Mamoru Furuhashi has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Furuhashi has also served as the Deputy Chief Government & Public Affairs Officer since 2007. Mr. Furuhashi served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2007. Mr. Furuhashi joined Toyota in 1973.

Satoshi Ozawa has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Ozawa has also served as the Chief General Administration & Human Resources Officer since 2007. Mr. Ozawa served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2007. Mr. Ozawa joined Toyota in 1974.

Iwao Nihashi has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2008. Mr. Nihashi has served as Chief Quality Officer since 2008. Mr. Nihashi served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2008. Mr. Nihashi joined Toyota in 1970.

Yasuhiko Ichihashi has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2008. Mr. Ichihashi has served as Chief Technical Administration Officer and Chief R&D Group 1 Officer since 2008. Mr. Ichihashi served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2008. Mr. Ichihashi joined Toyota in 1974.

Tadashi Yamashina has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2008. Mr. Yamashina has also served as a Director of Toyota Motorsport GmbH since 2007. Mr. Yamashina served as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2008. Mr. Yamashina joined Toyota in 1977.

Takahiko Ijichi has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2008. Mr. Ichiji has served as the Chief Business Development Officer and Chief Accounting Officer since 2008. Mr. Ijichi served as a Managing Officer from 2004 to 2008. Mr. Ijichi joined Toyota in 1976.

Tetsuo Agata has served as a Senior Managing Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2008. Mr. Agata has served as the President and Director of Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America Inc. since 2008. Mr. Agata served as a Managing Officer from 2004 to 2008. Mr. Agata joined Toyota in 1976.

Shoichiro Toyoda has served as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 1952. Dr. Toyoda is currently the Honorary Chairman of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation. Dr. Toyoda also serves as a Director of Denso Corporation. Dr. Toyoda joined Toyota in 1952.

Hiroshi Okuda has served as a Director, Member of the Board of Toyota Motor Corporation since 1982 and has served as the Senior Advisor, Member of the Board since 2006. Mr. Okuda served as the President, Member of the Board of Toyota from 1995 to 1999 and as Chairman of the Board from 1999 to 2006. Mr. Okuda also serves as a Director of KDDI Corporation. Mr. Okuda joined Toyota in 1955.

Yoshikazu Amano has served as a Corporate Auditor of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Amano served as a Director, Member of the Board from 2002 to 2003 and as a Managing Officer from 2003 to 2007. Mr. Amano joined Toyota in 1972.

Chiaki Yamaguchi has served as a Corporate Auditor of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2003. Mr. Yamaguchi also served as the Senior Managing Director of Toyota Finance Corporation from 2001 to 2003. Mr. Yamaguchi joined Toyota in 1972.

 

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Masaki Nakatsugawa has served as a Corporate Auditor of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2006. Mr. Nakatsugawa also served as the General Manager of Toyota’s Accounting Division from 2004 to 2006. Mr. Nakatsugawa joined Toyota in 1976.

Yoichi Kaya has served as a Corporate Auditor of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2003. Mr. Kaya is the Director-General of the Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth.

Yoichi Morishita has served as a Corporate Auditor of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2006. Mr. Morishita is a Corporate Counsellor of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.

Akishige Okada has served as a Corporate Auditor of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2006. Mr. Okada is the Advisor of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.

Kunihiro Matsuo has served as a Corporate Auditor of Toyota Motor Corporation since 2007. Mr. Matsuo served as the Prosecutor-General of the Supreme Public Prosecutors Office from 2004 to 2006. Mr. Matsuo registered as an Attorney in 2006.

Akio Toyoda is Shoichiro Toyoda’s son. There are no other family relationships among directors and corporate auditors.

None of the persons listed above was selected as director, corporate auditor or member of senior management pursuant to an arrangement or understanding with Toyota’s major shareholders, customers, suppliers or others.

6.B COMPENSATION

The aggregate amount of remuneration, including bonuses but excluding stock options, paid to all directors and corporate auditors as a group by Toyota for services in all capacities during fiscal 2008 was approximately ¥3,317 million. Directors and corporate auditors of Toyota Motor Corporation receive year-end bonuses, the aggregate amount of which is approved at Toyota Motor Corporation’s ordinary general shareholders’ meeting and is based on Toyota Motor Corporation’s financial performance for the fiscal year. The amounts of the bonuses paid to individual directors and corporate auditors are then determined based upon discussions at a meeting of Toyota Motor Corporation’s board of directors and the meeting of corporate auditors.

Toyota Motor Corporation also granted to its directors 1,020,000 stock acquisition rights to purchase up to 10,200 shares of common stock during fiscal 2008 under its stock option plan. For a detailed description of the stock options and the stock option plan, see “— Share Ownership”.

In April 2006, the board of directors of Toyota Motor Corporation decided to abolish the retirement allowance payments for directors and proposed the decision to the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting. The proposal was subsequently resolved at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting in June 2006. The last lump sum retirement allowance for directors was also approved at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting in June 2006. At the same time, the amount of Directors’ remuneration was revised from ¥130 million or less per month to ¥200 million or less per month by the resolution of the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting in June 2006. In April 2008, the board of directors of Toyota Motor Corporation decided to abolish the retirement allowance payments for corporate auditors and executive bonuses, and proposed the decision to the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting in June 2008. The proposal was subsequently resolved at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting. The last lump sum retirement allowance for corporate auditors was also approved at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting in June 2008. At the same time, the amount of corporate auditors’ remuneration was revised from ¥13 million or less per month to ¥30 million or less per month by the resolution of the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting in June 2008.

 

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6.C BOARD PRACTICES

Toyota’s articles of incorporation provide for a board of directors of not more than 30 members and for not more than seven corporate auditors. Shareholders elect the directors and corporate auditors at the general shareholders’ meeting. The normal term of office of a director is one year and of a corporate auditor is four years. Directors and corporate auditors may serve any number of consecutive terms.

The board of directors may elect one Chairman of the Board, one President and one or more Vice Chairmen of the Board, Executive Vice Presidents and Senior Managing Directors. The board of directors elects, pursuant to its resolutions, one or more Representative Directors. Each Representative Director represents Toyota generally in the conduct of its affairs. The board of directors has the ultimate responsibility for the administration of Toyota’s affairs. None of Toyota’s directors is party to a service contract with Toyota or any of its subsidiaries that provides for benefits upon termination of employment.

Under the Corporation Act and Toyota’s articles of incorporation, Toyota may, by a resolution of its board of directors, exempt Directors (including former Directors) from their liabilities to Toyota arising in connection with their failure to execute their duties within the limits stipulated by laws and regulations.

Under the Corporation Act, Toyota must have at least three corporate auditors. At least half of the corporate auditors are required to be persons who have not been a Director, accounting counselor (or if an accounting counselor is a judicial person, a member of such judicial person who is in charge of its affairs), executive officer, general manager or employee of Toyota or any of its subsidiaries at any time during the past. The corporate auditors may not at the same time be directors, accounting counselor (in case that an accounting counselor is a judicial person, a member of such judicial person who is in charge of its affairs), executive officers, general managers or employees of Toyota or any of its subsidiaries. Together, these corporate auditors form a board of corporate auditors. The corporate auditors have the duty to examine the financial statements and business reports which are submitted by the board of directors to the general shareholders’ meeting. The corporate auditors also supervise the administration of Toyota’s affairs by the directors. Corporate auditors are not required to be, and Toyota’s corporate auditors are not, certified public accountants. They are required to participate in meetings of the board of directors but are not entitled to vote.

Under the Corporation Act and Toyota’s articles of incorporation, Toyota may, by a resolution of its board of directors, exempt corporate auditors (including former corporate auditors) from their liabilities to Toyota arising in connection with their failure to execute their duties within the limits stipulated by laws and regulations. In addition, Toyota may enter into a liability limitation agreement with each outside corporate auditor which limits the maximum amount of their liabilities owed to Toyota arising in connection with their failure to execute their duties to an amount equal to the minimum liability limit amount prescribed in the laws and regulations.

Toyota does not have a remuneration committee.

Significant Differences in Corporate Governance Practices between Toyota and U.S. Companies Listed on the NYSE

Pursuant to home country practices exemptions granted by NYSE, Toyota is permitted to follow certain corporate governance practices complying with Japanese laws, regulations and stock exchange rules in lieu of NYSE’s listing standards. The SEC approved changes to the NYSE’s listing standards related to corporate governance practices of listed companies (the “NYSE Corporate Governance Rules”) in November 2003, as further amended in November 2004. Toyota is exempt from the approved changes, except for requirements that (a) Toyota’s board of corporate auditors satisfies the requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), (b) Toyota must disclose significant differences in its corporate governance practices as compared to those followed by domestic companies under the NYSE listing standards, (c) Toyota’s principal executive officer must notify the NYSE of material non-compliance with (a) and (b), and

 

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(d) Toyota must submit annual and interim written affirmations to the NYSE. Toyota’s corporate governance practices and those followed by domestic companies under the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules have the following significant differences:

1. Directors. Toyota currently does not have any directors who will be deemed as an “independent director” as required under the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules for U.S. listed companies. Unlike the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules, the Corporation Act does not require Japanese companies with a board of corporate auditors such as Toyota to have any independent directors on its board of directors. While the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules require that the non-management directors of each listed company meet at regularly scheduled executive sessions without management, Toyota currently has no non-management director on its board of directors. Unlike the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules, the Corporation Act does not require, and accordingly Toyota does not have, an internal corporate organ or committee comprised solely of independent directors.

2. Committees. Under the Corporation Act, Toyota has elected to structure its corporate governance system as a company with corporate auditors, who are under a statutory duty to monitor, review and report on the management of the affairs of Toyota. Toyota, as with other Japanese companies with a board of corporate auditors, but unlike U.S. listed companies subject to the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules, does not have specified committees, including those that are responsible for director nomination, corporate governance and executive compensation.

Pursuant to the Corporation Act, Toyota’s board of directors nominates and submits a proposal for the appointment of directors for shareholder approval. The shareholders vote on such nomination at the general shareholders’ meeting. The Corporation Act requires that the respective limits or calculation formula, and kind (in case that the remuneration, bonus and any other benefits in compensation for the execution of duties (“remuneration, etc.”) are to be paid in other than cash) of remuneration, etc. to be paid to directors, and limits of remuneration, etc. to be paid to corporate auditors, must be determined by a resolution of the general shareholders’ meeting, unless their remuneration, etc. is provided for in the articles of incorporation. The distribution of remuneration, etc. among each director is broadly delegated to the board of directors and the distribution of remuneration among each corporate auditor is determined by consultation among the corporate auditors.

3. Audit Committee. Toyota avails itself of paragraph (c)(3) of Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act, which provides a general exemption from the audit committee requirements to a foreign private issuer with a board of corporate auditors, subject to certain requirements which continue to be applicable under Rule 10A-3.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Corporation Act, Toyota elects its corporate auditors through a resolution adopted at a general shareholders’ meeting. Toyota currently has seven corporate auditors, which exceeds the minimum number of corporate auditors required pursuant to the Corporation Act.

Unlike the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules, the Corporation Act, among others, do not require corporate auditors to establish an expertise in accounting nor are they required to present other special knowledge and experience. Under the Corporation Act, the board of corporate auditors may determine the auditing policies and methods of investigating the conditions of Toyota’s business and assets, and may resolve other matters concerning the execution of the corporate auditor’s duties. The board of corporate auditors also prepares auditors’ reports and gives consent to proposals of the nomination of corporate auditors and accounting auditors.

Toyota currently has four outside corporate auditors under the Corporation Act. Under the Corporation Act, at least half of the corporate auditors of Toyota must be “outside” corporate auditors, which is such person who was not a director, accounting counselor (in case that an accounting counselor is a judicial person, a member of such judicial person who is in charge of its affairs), executive officer, manager, or employee of Toyota or its subsidiaries at any time during the past. Such qualifications for an “outside” corporate auditor are different from the audit committee independence requirement under the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules.

 

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4. Corporate Governance Guidelines. Unlike the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules, Toyota is not required to adopt corporate governance guidelines under Japanese laws and regulations, including the Corporation Act and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan or stock exchange rules. However, Toyota is required to resolve the matters at the board of directors concerning provision of the system to ensure the execution of duties of the directors to comply with the laws, regulations and the articles of incorporation, and any other systems to ensure the adequacy of the business required under the ordinance of the Ministry of Justice (“internal control system” or “naibu-tosei”), and to disclose such matters resolved, policies and the present status of its corporate governance in its business reports, annual securities report and certain other disclosure documents in accordance with the regulations under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law and stock exchange rules in respect of timely disclosure.

5. Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. Unlike the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules, under Japanese laws and regulations including the Corporation Act and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law or stock exchange rules, Toyota is not required to adopt a code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officers and employees. Accordingly, Toyota is not required to adopt and disclose waivers of the code of business conduct and ethics for these individuals. However, Toyota resolved the matters concerning provision of the system to ensure the execution of duties of the employees to comply with the laws, regulations and the articles of incorporation, etc. as “internal control system” or “naibu-tosei” pursuant to the Corporation Act, maintains guidelines and internal regulations such as “Guiding Principles at Toyota”, “Toyota Code of Conduct” and a code of ethics pursuant to Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Please see “Code of Ethics” for additional information.

6. Shareholder Approval of Equity Compensation Plans. Unlike the NYSE Corporate Governance Rules, under which material revisions to equity-compensation plans of listed companies are subject to shareholder approval, pursuant to the Corporation Act, generally, the adoption of equity compensation plans for directors is required to be approved by a majority of shareholders at the general shareholders’ meeting as the remuneration, etc. in other than cash. In addition to such approval, if Toyota desires to adopt an equity-compensation plan under which stock acquisition rights are granted on specially favorable terms to the recipient (except where such rights are granted to all of its shareholders on a pro-rata basis at the same time), then Toyota obtains approval by super-majority (as defined in the Corporation Act) at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting. Such approval is applicable only to stock acquisition rights to be granted within one year from the date of the approval.

6.D EMPLOYEES

The total number of Toyota employees, on a consolidated basis, as reported in Toyota’s annual Japanese securities report filed with the Director of the Kanto Local Finance Bureau was 316,121 at March 31, 2008, 299,394 at March 31, 2007, and 285,977 at March 31, 2006. The following tables set forth a breakdown of persons employed by business segment and by geographic location at March 31, 2008.

 

Segment

   Number of
Employees
  

Location

   Number of
Employees

Automotive

   277,443    Japan    194,346

Financial services

   8,138    North America    38,050

All other

   25,548    Europe    22,813

Unallocated

   4,992    Asia    37,694
      Other*    23,218
            

Total company

   316,121    Total company    316,121
            
     

 

*       “Other” consists of Central and South America, Oceania, Africa.

As a result of Toyota’s business plan to further localize its global operations, the number of Toyota’s employees in the countries in which Toyota operates has generally been growing over the last several years.

Most regular employees of Toyota Motor Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries in Japan, other than management, are required to become members of the labor unions that comprise the Federation of All Toyota Workers’ Unions. Approximately 88% of Toyota Motor Corporation’s regular employees in Japan are members of this union.

 

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In Japan, basic wages and other working conditions are negotiated annually. In addition, in accordance with Japanese national custom, each employee is also paid a semi-annual bonus. Bonuses are negotiated at the time of wage negotiations and are based on Toyota’s financial results, prospects and other factors. The average wage increases per employee, excluding bonuses, in Japan have been approximately 2.1% per year for the past five fiscal years.

In general, Toyota considers its labor relations with all of its workers to be good. However, Toyota is currently a party to, and otherwise from time to time experiences, labor disputes in some of the countries in which it operates. Toyota does not expect any disputes to which it is currently a party to materially affect Toyota’s consolidated financial position.

Toyota’s average number of temporary employees on a consolidated basis was 87,597 during fiscal 2008.

6.E SHARE OWNERSHIP

The following table sets forth information with respect to the number of shares of Toyota’s common stock held by each director and corporate auditor as of June 2008.

 

Name

   Number of
Shares

Fujio Cho

   40,705

Katsuhiro Nakagawa

   34,600

Kazuo Okamoto

   25,564

Katsuaki Watanabe

   31,871

Kyoji Sasazu

   28,692

Mitsuo Kinoshita

   27,470

Takeshi Uchiyamada

   28,464

Masatami Takimoto

   29,500

Akio Toyoda

   4,564,691

Yukitoshi Funo

   34,248

Atsushi Niimi

   29,738

Hiroshi Takada

   12,250

Teiji Tachibana

   14,700

Shinichi Sasaki

   11,810

Akira Okabe

   25,300

Yoichiro Ichimaru

   21,268

Shoji Ikawa

   27,936

Koichi Ina

   31,700

Shinzo Kobuki

   23,900

Akira Sasaki

   17,000

Tadashi Arashima

   20,781

Mamoru Furuhashi

   12,700

Satoshi Ozawa

   15,200

Iwao Nihashi

   12,800

Yasuhiko Ichihashi

   22,800

Tadashi Yamashina

   9,500

Takahiko Ijichi

   11,000

Tetsuo Agata

   6,793

Shoichiro Toyoda

   11,176,193

Hiroshi Okuda

   64,963

Yoshikazu Amano

   21,068

Chiaki Yamaguchi

   5,000

Masaki Nakatsugawa

   5,800

Yoichi Kaya

   —  

Yoichi Morishita

   —  

Akishige Okada

   —  

Kunihiro Matsuo

   —  

Total

   16,446,005

 

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Each of the persons listed above owns less than one percent of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Toyota. The shares listed above do not include options that are exercisable for shares of Toyota’s common stock. For a description of these options, see “— Stock Options” below.

None of Toyota’s shares of common stock entitles the holder to any preferential voting rights.

Stock Options

Toyota has enacted stock option plans in each of the past six years. The plans for which stock options or stock acquisition rights are currently exercisable or will become exercisable in the future were approved by Toyota’s shareholders in June of 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Under the plan enacted in 2002, Toyota issued stock acquisition rights, which are rights introduced as of April 2002 pursuant to the amendment to the Commercial Code, to purchase up to 1,876,000 shares of common stock to its directors and 496 officers and employees, including directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries and one Toyota affiliate. Under the 2003 plan, Toyota issued stock acquisition rights to purchase up to 1,958,000 shares of common stock to its directors and 565 officers and employees, including directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries and one Toyota affiliate. Under the 2004 plan, Toyota issued stock acquisition rights to purchase up to 2,021,000 shares of common stock to its directors and 582 officers and employees, including directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries and one Toyota affiliate. Under the 2005 plan, Toyota issued stock acquisition rights to purchase up to 2,104,000 shares of common stock to its directors and 596 officers and employees of its subsidiaries and one Toyota affiliate. Under the 2006 plan, Toyota issued stock acquisition rights to purchase up to 3,176,000 shares of common stock to its directors and 580 officers and employees, including directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries and one Toyota affiliate. Under the 2007 plan, Toyota issued stock acquisition rights to purchase up to 3,264,000 shares of common stock to its directors and 579 officers and employees, including directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries and one Toyota affiliate. Under the 2008 plan, Toyota is authorized to issue stock acquisition rights to purchase up to 3,494,000 shares of common stock to its directors and 597 officers and employees, including directors, officers and employees of its subsidiaries and one Toyota affiliate.

Pursuant to the provisions of the 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 plans, stock acquisition rights may be exercised during a four-year period that starts two years from the date first granted. Pursuant to the provisions of the 2006, 2007 and 2008 plans, stock acquisition rights maybe exercised during a six-year period that starts two years from the date of grant. The exercise price of each stock acquisition right is 1.025 times the closing price of Toyota’s common stock on the Tokyo Stock Exchange on the date of grant. The 2002 plan provides that each director will be granted no more than 200 and no less than 100 stock acquisition rights, and each eligible officer or employee will be granted no more than 100 and no less than 20 stock acquisition rights. Each of the 2003, 2004 and 2005 plans provides that each director will be granted no more than 200 and no less than 150 stock acquisition rights, and each eligible officer or employee will be granted no more than 100 and no less than 20 stock acquisition rights. The 2006, 2007 and 2008 plans provide that each director will be granted no more than 400 and no less than 300 stock acquisition rights, and each eligible officer or employee will be granted no more than 200 and no less than 20 stock acquisition rights. For each of the 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 plans, one hundred shares will be issued or delivered upon the exercise of each stock acquisition right. The options are granted as of August 1 of each year for each plan, except for the 2004 plan, under which options were granted as of August 2, 2004.

The 2002 plan further provides that an option holder who retires while one’s options are still exercisable retains the right to exercise one’s options until the earlier of: (i) six months after one’s retirement, or (ii) six years after the date the options were first granted. The 2006, 2007 and 2008 plans further provide that an option holder who retires while one’s options are still exercisable retains the right to exercise one’s options until the earlier of: (i) two years after one’s retirement, or (ii) eight years after the date the options were first granted. Under the 2003, 2004 and 2005 plans, an option holder who retires while one’s options are still exercisable retains the right to exercise his shares until six years after the date the options were first granted. An option holder’s right to purchase common stock under each plan lapses automatically upon one’s death.

 

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The following table summarizes information for options and the incentive plan outstanding and exercisable at March 31, 2008:

 

     Outstanding    Exercisable

Exercise price range

   Number of
shares
   Weighted-
average
exercise
price
   Weighted-
average
exercise
price
   Weighted-
average
remaining
life
   Number of
shares
   Weighted-
average
exercise
price
   Weighted-
average
exercise
price
            (Yen)         (Yen)    (Dollars)    (Years)         (Yen)    (Dollars)

¥2,958 – 4,500

   1,754,900    ¥ 4,118    $ 41    2.90    1,754,900    ¥ 4,118    $ 41

¥4,501 – 7,278

   6,586,700    ¥ 6,549    $ 65    6.46    599,700    ¥ 4,541    $ 45

Toyota also has an employee stock ownership association in Japan for employees and full time and part time company advisors. Members of the employee stock ownership association set aside certain amounts from their monthly salary and bonuses to purchase Toyota’s common stock through the employee stock ownership association. As of March 31, 2008, the employee stock ownership association held 13,636,764 shares of Toyota’s common stock.

ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

7.A MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

As of March 31, 2008, 3,447,997,492 shares (including 298,717,640 shares of treasury stock) of Toyota’s common stock were outstanding. Beneficial ownership of Toyota’s common stock in the table below was prepared from information known to Toyota or can be ascertained from public filings, including filings made by Toyota’s shareholders regarding their ownership of Toyota’s common stock under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan.

Under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law, any person who becomes, beneficially and solely or jointly, a holder, including, but not limited to, a deemed holder who manages shares for another holder pursuant to a discretionary investment agreement, of more than 5% of the shares with voting rights of a company listed on a Japanese stock exchange (including ADSs representing such shares) must file a report concerning the shareholding with the Director of the relevant local finance bureau. A similar report must be filed, with certain exceptions, if the percentage of shares held by a holder, solely or jointly, of more than 5% of the total issued shares of a company increases or decreases by 1% or more, or if any change to a material matter set forth in any previously filed reports occurs.

Based on information known to Toyota or can be ascertained from public filings, the following table sets forth the beneficial ownership of holders of more than 5% of Toyota’s common stock as of the most recent practicable date.

 

Name of Beneficial Owner

   Number of
Shares
(in thousands)
   Percentage of
Shares
Outstanding

Toyota Industries Corporation

   200,195    5.81

According to The Bank of New York, depositary for Toyota’s ADSs, as of March 31, 2008, 121,480,634 shares of Toyota’s common stock were held in the form of ADRs and there were 2,443 ADR holders of record in the United States. According to Toyota’s register of shareholders, as of March 31, 2008, there were 522,135 holders of common stock of record worldwide. As of March 31, 2008, there were 316 record holders of Toyota’s common stock with addresses in the United States, whose shareholdings represented approximately 12.1% of the issued common stock on that date. Because some of these shares were held by brokers or other nominees, the number of record holders with addresses in the United States might not fully show the number of beneficial owners in the United States.

None of Toyota’s shares of common stock entitles the holder to any preferential voting rights.

 

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To the extent known to Toyota, Toyota is not owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by another corporation, any foreign government or any natural or legal person.

Toyota knows of no arrangements the operation of which may at a later time result in a change of control.

7.B RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Business Relationships

Toyota purchases materials, supplies and services from numerous suppliers throughout the world in the ordinary course of business, including Toyota’s equity-method affiliates and those firms with which certain members of Toyota’s board of directors are affiliated. Toyota purchased materials, supplies and services from these affiliated entities in the amount of ¥4,525.0 billion in fiscal 2008. Toyota also sells its products and services to Toyota’s equity-method affiliates and firms with which certain members of Toyota’s board of directors are affiliated. Toyota sold products and services to these affiliated entities in the amount of ¥1,694.0 billion in fiscal 2008. Toyota believes all of these purchase and sale transactions were arm’s-length transactions. See note 12 of Toyota’s consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding Toyota’s investments in and transactions with affiliated companies.

Loans

Toyota regularly has trade accounts and other receivables by, and accounts payable to, Toyota’s equity-method affiliates and firms with which certain members of Toyota’s board of directors are affiliated. Toyota had outstanding trade accounts and other receivables by these affiliated entities in the amount of ¥247.3 billion as of March 31, 2008. Toyota had outstanding trade accounts and other payables to these affiliated entities in the amount of ¥622.8 billion as of March 31, 2008.

Toyota, from time to time, provides short- to medium-term loans to its affiliates, as well as loans under a loan program established by certain subsidiaries to assist their executives and directors with the purchase of homes. As of March 31, 2008, an aggregate amount of ¥37.3 billion in loans was outstanding to its equity-method affiliates. As of March 31, 2008, an aggregate amount of ¥28.3 billion in loans was outstanding to those of its affiliates not accounted for under the equity method, which are 20% to 50% owned by Toyota. As of March 31, 2008, the largest loan outstanding to any such equity-method affiliate was a loan of ¥27.5 billion at a fixed rate. Toyota believes that each of these loans was entered into in the ordinary course of business.

7.C INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

Not applicable.

ITEM  8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

8.A CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

1-3. Consolidated Financial Statements. Toyota’s audited consolidated financial statements are included under “Item 18 — Financial Statements”. Except for Toyota’s consolidated financial statements included under Item 18, no other information in this annual report has been audited by Toyota’s auditors.

 

4. Not applicable.

 

5. Not applicable.

 

6. Export Sales. See “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Operating Results — Overview — Geographical Breakdown”.

 

7. Legal and Arbitration Proceedings. See “Information on the Company — Business Overview — Legal Proceedings”.

 

8. Dividend Policy. See “Selected Financial Data — Dividends”.

 

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8.B SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

Except as disclosed in this annual report, there have been no significant changes since the date of Toyota’s latest annual financial statements.

ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

9.A LISTING DETAILS

The following table sets forth for the periods shown the reported high and low sales prices of the common stock on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and the ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange.

 

     Tokyo
Stock Exchange
   New York
Stock Exchange
     Price per Share    Price per ADS
     High    Low    High    Low

Fiscal Year Ended March 31,

                   

2004

   ¥ 3,990    ¥ 2,455    $ 75.88    $ 41.17

2005

     4,520      3,730      82.94      65.65

2006

     6,560      3,790      110.28      70.95

2007

     8,350      5,430      138.00      94.52

2008

     7,850      4,830      128.12      96.91

Financial Quarter Ended:

                   

June 30, 2006

     6,950      5,430      124.00      95.20

September 30, 2006

     6,520      5,570      113.45      94.52

December 31, 2006

     8,000      6,430      135.09      109.67

March 31, 2007

     8,350      7,440      138.00      127.77

June 30, 2007

     7,800      7,070      127.74      116.80

September 30, 2007

     7,850      6,190      128.12      112.38

December 31, 2007

     6,870      5,870      118.75      105.19

March 31, 2008

     6,310      4,830      116.00      96.91

Month Ended:

                   

December 31, 2007

     6,360      5,930      114.94      105.19

January 31, 2008

     5,820      4,880      108.32      96.91

February 29, 2008

     6,310      5,750      116.00      105.37

March 31, 2008

     5,560      4,830      109.08      99.20

April 30, 2008

     5,370      4,820      103.72      95.20

May 31, 2008

     5,580      5,010      105.66      97.79

9.B PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

Not applicable.

9.C MARKETS

The primary trading market for Toyota’s common stock is the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The common stock is also listed on the Nagoya Stock Exchange and three other regional stock exchanges in Japan.

Since September 29, 1999, American Depositary Shares, each equal to two shares of Toyota’s common stock and evidenced by American Depositary Receipts, have been traded and listed on the New York Stock Exchange through a sponsored ADR facility operated by The Bank of New York, as depositary. Prior to that time, Toyota’s ADSs were listed on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market through five unsponsored ADR facilities.

Toyota’s common stock is also listed on the London Stock Exchange.

 

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9.D SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

Not applicable.

9.E DILUTION

Not applicable.

9.F EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE

Not applicable.

ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

10.A SHARE CAPITAL

Not applicable.

10.B MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

Except as otherwise stated, set forth below is information relating to Toyota’s common stock, including brief summaries of the relevant provisions of Toyota’s articles of incorporation and share handling regulations, as currently in effect, and of the Corporation Act and related legislation.

General

Toyota’s authorized number of shares as of March 31, 2008 is 10,000,000,000, of which 3,447,997,492 shares were issued. Under the Corporation Act and Toyota’s articles of incorporation, shares must be registered and are transferable generally by delivery of share certificates. In order to assert shareholders’ rights against Toyota, a shareholder must have its name and address registered on Toyota’s register of shareholders, in accordance with Toyota’s share handling regulations. The registered beneficial holder of deposited shares underlying the ADSs is the depositary for the ADSs. Accordingly, holders of ADSs will not be able directly to assert shareholders’ rights.

A holder of shares may choose, at its discretion, to participate in the central clearing system for share certificates under the Law Concerning Central Clearing of Share Certificates and Other Securities of Japan. Participating shareholders must deposit certificates representing all of the shares to be included in this clearing system with Japan Securities Depository Center, Inc. If a holder is not a participating institution in the Securities Center, it must participate through a participating institution, such as a securities company or bank having a clearing account with the Securities Center. All shares deposited with the Securities Center will be registered in the name of the Securities Center on Toyota’s register of shareholders. Each participating shareholder will in turn be registered on Toyota’s register of beneficial shareholders and be treated in the same way as shareholders registered on Toyota’s register of shareholders. For the purpose of transferring deposited shares, delivery of share certificates is not required. Entry of the share transfer in the books maintained by the Securities Center for participating institutions, or in the book maintained by a participating institution for its customers, has the same effect as delivery of share certificates. The registered beneficial owners may exercise the rights attached to the shares, such as voting rights, and will receive dividends (if any) and notices to shareholders directly from Toyota. The shares held by a person as a registered shareholder and those held by the same person as a registered beneficial owner are aggregated for these purposes. Beneficial owners may at any time withdraw their shares from deposit and receive share certificates.

A new law to establish a new central clearing system for shares of listed companies and to eliminate the issuance and use of certificates for such shares was promulgated in June 2004 and the relevant part of the law

 

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will come into effect within five years of the date of the promulgation. Currently, the effective date is expected to be January 5, 2009. On the effective date, a new central clearing system will be established and the shares of all Japanese companies listed on any Japanese stock exchange, including the shares of Common Stock of Toyota, will be subject to the new central clearing system. On the same day, Toyota will become a company which shall not issue share certificates for its shares and all existing share certificates will become null and void and the companies are not required to withdraw those share certificates from shareholders. Thereafter, the transfer of such shares will be effected through entry in the records maintained under the new central clearing system. Only shares deposited with the Securities Center will be immediately transferable under the new clearing system. Upon the effective date, any requirement, reference and discussion relating to share certificates included in this section will not be applicable.

Objects and Purposes

Article 2 of Toyota’s articles of incorporation states that its purpose is to engage in the following businesses:

 

   

the manufacture, sale, leasing and repair of:

 

   

motor vehicles, industrial vehicles, ships, aircraft, other transportation machinery and apparatus, spacecraft and space machinery and apparatus, and parts thereof;

 

   

industrial machinery and apparatus, other general machinery and apparatus, and parts thereof;

 

   

electrical machinery and apparatus, and parts thereof; and

 

   

measuring machinery and apparatus, medical machinery and apparatus, and parts thereof;

 

   

the manufacture and sale of ceramics and products of synthetic resins, and materials thereof;

 

   

the manufacture, sale and repair of construction materials and equipment, furnishings and fixtures for residential buildings;

 

   

the planning, designing, supervision, execution and undertaking of construction works, civil engineering works, land development, urban development and regional development;

 

   

the sale, purchase, leasing, brokerage and management of real estate;

 

   

the service of information processing, information communications and information supply and the development, sale and leasing of software;

 

   

the design and development of product sales systems that utilize networks such as the Internet;

 

   

the sale, leasing and maintenance of computers included within such systems, and sales of products by utilizing such systems;

 

   

the inland transportation, marine transportation, air transportation, stevedoring, warehousing and tourism businesses;

 

   

the printing, publishing, advertising and publicity, general leasing, security and workers dispatch businesses;

 

   

the credit card operations, purchase and sale of securities, investment consulting, investment trust operation, and other financial services;

 

   

the operation and management of such facilities as parking lots, showrooms, educational facilities, medical care facilities, sports facilities, marinas, airfields, food and drink stands and restaurants, lodging facilities, retail stores and others;

 

   

the non-life insurance agency business and the life insurance agency business;

 

   

the production and processing by using biotechnology of agricultural products including trees, and the sale of such products;

 

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the sale of goods related to each of the preceding items and mineral oil; and

 

   

the conducting of engineering, invention and research relating to each of the preceding items and the utilization of such invention and research, and any businesses incidental to or related to any of the preceding items.

Dividends

Dividends — General

Toyota normally pays cash dividends twice per year. Toyota’s board of directors recommends the dividend to be paid to shareholders and pledgees of record as of March 31 each year. This recommended dividend must then be approved by shareholders at the general shareholders’ meeting. Toyota pays the dividend immediately following approval of the dividend at the shareholders’ meeting, normally around the end of June each year. In addition to these year-end dividends, Toyota may pay interim dividends in the form of cash distributions from its distributable surplus to shareholders and pledgees of record as of September 30 in each year by resolution of its board of directors and without shareholder approval. Toyota normally pays the interim dividend in late November.

In addition, under the Corporation Act, dividends may be paid to shareholders and pledgees of record as of any record date, other than those specified above, as set forth by Toyota’s articles of incorporation or as determined by its board of directors from time to time. Such dividends may be distributed by a resolution of any general shareholders’ meeting. Toyota’s articles of incorporation also permit Toyota to pay dividends, in addition to interim dividends mentioned in the preceding paragraph, by a resolution of its board of directors. Toyota has incorporated such a provision into its articles of incorporation in order to secure a flexible capital policy. Under the Corporation Act, dividends may be distributed in cash or (except in the case of interim dividends mentioned in the preceding paragraph) in kind, subject to limitations on distributable surplus and to certain other conditions.

Dividends — Distributable amount

Under the Corporation Act, Toyota is permitted to make distribution of surplus to the extent that the aggregate book value of the assets to be distributed to shareholders does not exceed the distributable amount provided for by the Corporation Act and the ordinance of the Ministry of Justice as at the effective date of such distribution of surplus.

The amount of surplus at any given time shall be the amount of Toyota’s assets and the book value of Toyota’s treasury stock after subtracting and adding the amounts of the items provided for by the Corporation Act and the ordinance of the Ministry of Justice.

Dividends — Prescription

Under its articles of incorporation, Toyota is not obligated to pay any dividends in cash which are left unclaimed for a period of three years after the date on which they first became payable.

Capital Accounts

The amount of the cash or assets paid or contributed by subscribers for new shares (with certain exceptions) is required to be accounted for as stated capital, although Toyota may account for an amount not exceeding one-half of such cash or assets as additional paid-in capital.

Under the Corporation Act, Toyota may reduce its additional paid-in capital and legal reserve without limitation on the amount to be reduced, generally, by a resolution of a general shareholders’ meeting and if so decided by the same resolution, may account for the whole or any part of the amount of the reduction of additional paid-in capital as stated capital.

 

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The whole or any part of surplus which may be distributed as dividends may also be transferred to stated capital by a resolution of a general shareholders’ meeting.

Stock Splits

Toyota may at any time split the outstanding shares into a greater number of shares by a resolution of the board of directors. Toyota must give public notice of the stock split, specifying a record date for the stock split, not less than two weeks prior to the record date.

Consolidation of Shares

Toyota may at any time consolidate shares in issue into a smaller number of shares by a special shareholders resolution (as defined in “Voting Rights”). When a consolidation of shares is to be made, Toyota must give public notice and notice to each shareholder that, within a period of not less than one month specified in the notice, share certificates must be submitted to Toyota for exchange. Toyota must disclose the reason for the consolidation of shares at a general shareholders’ meeting.

Japanese Unit Share System

General. Consistent with the requirements of the Corporation Act, Toyota’s articles of incorporation provide that 100 shares constitute one “unit”. Although the number of shares constituting a unit is included in the articles of incorporation, any amendment to the articles of incorporation reducing (but not increasing) the number of shares constituting a unit or eliminating the provisions for the unit of shares may be made by a resolution of the board of directors rather than by a special shareholders resolution, which is otherwise required for amending the articles of incorporation. The number of shares constituting one unit, however, cannot exceed 1,000 shares.

Voting Rights under the Unit Share System. Under the unit share system, shareholders have one voting right for each unit of shares that they hold. Any number of shares less than a full unit will carry no voting rights.

Share Certificate for Less Than a Full Unit of Shares. Toyota’s articles of incorporation provide that Toyota may choose not to issue share certificate for any number of shares less than a unit. As the transfer of shares normally requires delivery of share certificates, any fraction of a unit for which share certificates are not issued will not be transferable.

Repurchase by Toyota of Shares Constituting Less Than a Unit. A holder of shares constituting less than a full unit may require Toyota to purchase those shares at their market value in accordance with the provisions of Toyota’s share handling regulations.

Surrender of American Depositary Shares. As a result of the unit share system, ADR holders will only be permitted to surrender ADRs and withdraw underlying shares constituting whole units. If a holder surrenders an ADR representing shares that do not constitute an integral number of whole units, the depositary will deliver to that holder only those shares which constitute a whole unit. The depositary will then issue to the holder a new ADR representing the remaining shares. Holders of an ADR that represents less than a whole unit of underlying shares will be unable to withdraw the underlying shares. As a result, those holders will be unable to require Toyota to purchase their underlying shares to the extent those shares constitute less than one whole unit.

Voting Rights

Toyota holds its ordinary general shareholders’ meeting each year. In addition, Toyota may hold an extraordinary general shareholders’ meeting whenever necessary by giving at least two weeks’ advance notice. Under the Corporation Act, notice of any shareholders’ meeting must be given to each shareholder having voting rights or, in the case of a non-resident shareholder, to his resident proxy or mailing address in Japan in accordance with Toyota’s share handling regulations, at least two weeks prior to the date of the meeting.

 

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A holder of shares constituting one or more whole units is generally entitled to one vote per unit of shares subject to the limitations on voting rights set forth in this paragraph. In general, under the Corporation Act, a resolution can be adopted at a general shareholders’ meeting by a majority of the shares having voting rights represented at the meeting. The Corporation Act and Toyota’s articles of incorporation require a quorum for the election of directors and corporate auditors of not less than one-third of the total number of outstanding shares having voting rights. Toyota’s shareholders are not entitled to cumulative voting in the election of directors. A corporate shareholder, the management of which is substantially under Toyota’s control as provided by an ordinance of the Ministry of Justice, either through the holding of voting rights or for any other reason, does not have voting rights.

Shareholders may exercise their voting rights through proxies, provided that those proxies are also shareholders who have voting rights. Toyota may refuse a shareholder having two (2) or more proxies attend a general shareholders’ meeting.

The Corporation Act provides that a quorum of at least one-third of outstanding shares with voting rights must be present at a shareholders’ meeting to approve any material corporate actions such as:

 

  (1) any amendment of the articles of incorporation with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required;

 

  (2) acquisition of its own shares from a specific party;

 

  (3) consolidation of shares;

 

  (4) any issue or transfer of its shares at a “specially favorable” price (or any issue of stock acquisition rights or bonds with stock acquisition rights at “specially favorable” conditions by Toyota) to any persons other than shareholders;

 

  (5) the removal of a corporate auditor;

 

  (6) the exemption of liability of a director or corporate auditor with certain exceptions;

 

  (7) a reduction of stated capital which meets certain requirements with certain exceptions;

 

  (8) a distribution of in-kind dividends which meets certain requirements;

 

  (9) dissolution, merger, or consolidation with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required;

 

  (10) the transfer of the whole or a material part of the business;

 

  (11) the taking over of the entire business of any other corporation with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required;

 

  (12) share exchange or share transfer for the purpose of establishing 100% parent-subsidiary relationships with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required; or

 

  (13) company split with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required.

At least two-thirds of the shares having voting rights represented at the meeting must approve these actions.

The voting rights of holders of ADSs are exercised by the depositary based on instructions from those holders.

Rights to be Allotted Shares

Holders of shares have no preemptive rights under Toyota’s articles of incorporation. Under the Corporation Act, the board of directors may, however, determine that shareholders shall be given rights to be allotted shares

 

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or stock acquisition rights on request, respectively, in connection with a particular issue or transfer of shares, or issue of stock acquisition rights. In this case, such rights must be given on uniform terms to all shareholders as of a specified record date by at least two weeks’ prior public notice to shareholders of the record date.

Rights to be allotted shares are nontransferable. However, a shareholder may be allotted stock acquisition rights without consideration thereto, and transfer such rights.

Liquidation Rights

In the event of a liquidation of Toyota, the assets remaining after payment of all debts, liquidation expenses and taxes will be distributed among the shareholders in proportion to the respective number of shares they own.

Liability to Further Calls or Assessments

All of Toyota’s currently outstanding shares, including shares represented by the ADSs, are fully paid and nonassessable.

Transfer Agent

Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation is the transfer agent for the shares. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation’s office is located at 4-5, Marunouchi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-8212 Japan. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation maintains Toyota’s register of shareholders and records transfers of record ownership upon presentation of share certificates.

Record Date

The close of business on March 31 is the record date for Toyota’s year-end dividends, if paid. A holder of shares constituting one or more whole units who is registered as a holder on Toyota’s register of shareholders or register of beneficial ownership at the close of business as of March 31 is also entitled to exercise shareholders’ voting rights at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting with respect to the business year ending on March 31. The close of business on September 30 of each year is the record date for interim dividends, if paid. In addition, Toyota may set a record date for determining the shareholders entitled to other rights and for other purposes by giving at least two weeks’ public notice.

The shares generally trade ex-dividend or ex-rights in the Japanese stock exchanges on the third business day before a record date (or if the record date is not a business day, the fourth business day prior thereto), for the purpose of dividends or rights offerings.

Acquisition by Toyota of Shares

Toyota may acquire its own shares (i) through a stock exchange on which such shares are listed or by way of tender offer (pursuant to an ordinary resolution of a general shareholders’ meeting or a resolution of the board of directors), (ii) by purchase from a specific party (pursuant to a special resolution of a general shareholders’ meeting) or (iii) from a subsidiary of Toyota (pursuant to a resolution of the board of directors).

When such acquisition is made by Toyota from a specific party other than a subsidiary of Toyota, any other shareholder may make a demand to a representative director, more than five calendar days prior to the relevant shareholders’ meeting, that Toyota also purchase the shares held by such shareholder. However, the acquisition of its own shares at a price not exceeding the market price to be provided under an ordinance of the Ministry of Justice will not trigger the right of any shareholder to include him/her as the seller of his/her shares in such proposed purchase.

Any such acquisition of shares must satisfy certain requirements that the total amount of the acquisition price may not exceed the amount of the distributable dividends . See — “Dividends”.

 

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Shares acquired by Toyota may be held by it for any period or may be cancelled by resolution of the board of directors. Toyota may also transfer to any person the shares held by it, subject to a resolution of the board of directors, and subject also to other requirements those applicable to the issuance of new shares. Toyota may also utilize its treasury stock for the purpose of transfer to any person upon exercise of stock acquisition rights or for the purpose of acquiring another company by way of merger, share exchange or corporate split through exchange of treasury stock for shares or assets of the acquired company.

The Corporation Act generally prohibits any subsidiary of Toyota from acquiring shares of Toyota.

Acquisition or Disposition of Shares or ADS

Under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Law and the cabinet orders and ministerial ordinances thereunder (collectively, the “Foreign Exchange Regulations”), all aspects of regulations on foreign exchange and foreign trade transactions are, with minor exceptions relating to inward direct investments (which are not generally applicable to Toyota’s shares), only subject to post transaction reporting requirements. Acquisitions and dispositions of shares of common stock or ADS by non-residents of Japan (including foreign corporations not resident in Japan) are generally not subject to this reporting requirement. However, the Minister of Finance has the power to impose a licensing requirement for transactions in limited circumstances.

Report of Substantial Shareholdings

The Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan and regulations under the Law require any person who has become a holder (together with its related persons) of more than 5% of the total issued shares of a company listed on any Japanese stock exchange (including ADSs representing such shares) to file with the Director of a competent Local Finance Bureau, within five business days, a report concerning those shareholdings. A similar report must also be filed to reflect any change of 1% or more in any shareholding or any change in material matters set out in reports previously filed. Any such report shall be filed with the Director of a competent Local Finance Bureau through the Electronic Disclosure for Investor’s Network (EDINET) system. Copies of any report must also be furnished to the company. For this purpose, shares issuable to a 5% or greater shareholder upon exercise of stock acquisition rights are taken into account in determining both the number of shares held by that holder and the company’s total issued share capital.

10.C MATERIAL CONTRACTS

All contracts concluded by Toyota during the two years preceding this filing were entered into in the ordinary course of business.

10.D EXCHANGE CONTROLS

The Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Law of Japan and its related cabinet orders and ministerial ordinances (the “Foreign Exchange Regulations”) govern the acquisition and holding of shares of capital stock of Toyota by “exchange non-residents” and by “foreign investors.” The Foreign Exchange Regulations currently in effect do not, however, affect transactions between exchange non-residents to purchase or sell shares outside Japan using currencies other than Japanese yen.

Exchange non-residents are:

 

   

individuals who do not reside in Japan; and

 

   

corporations whose principal offices are located outside Japan.

Generally, branches and other offices of non-resident corporations that are located within Japan are regarded as residents of Japan. Conversely, branches and other offices of Japanese corporations located outside Japan are regarded as exchange non-residents.

 

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Foreign investors are:

 

   

individuals who are exchange non-residents;

 

   

corporations or other organizations that are organized under the laws of foreign countries or whose principal offices are located outside of Japan; and

 

   

corporations (1) of which 50% or more of their voting rights are held directly or indirectly by individuals who are exchange non-residents and/or corporations or other organizations (a) that are organized under the laws of foreign countries or (b) whose principal offices are located outside of Japan or (2) a majority of whose officers, or officers having the power of representation, are individuals who are exchange non-residents.

In general, the acquisition of shares of a Japanese company (such as the shares of capital stock of Toyota) by an exchange non-resident from a resident of Japan is not subject to any prior filing requirements. In certain limited circumstances, however, the Minister of Finance may require prior approval of an acquisition of this type. While prior approval, as described above, is not required, in the case where a resident of Japan transfers shares of a Japanese company (such as the shares of capital stock of Toyota) for consideration exceeding ¥100 million to an exchange non-resident, the resident of Japan who transfers the shares is required to report the transfer to the Minister of Finance within 20 days from the date of the transfer, unless the transfer was made through a bank, securities company or financial futures trader licensed under Japanese law.

If a foreign investor acquires shares of a Japanese company that is listed on a Japanese stock exchange (such as the shares of capital stock of Toyota) and, as a result of the acquisition, the foreign investor, in combination with any existing holdings, directly or indirectly holds 10% or more of the issued shares of the relevant company, the foreign investor, with certain exceptions, must file a report of the acquisition with the Minister of Finance and any other competent Ministers having jurisdiction over that Japanese company within 15 days from and including the date of the acquisition. In limited circumstances, such as where the foreign investor is in a country that is not listed on an exemption schedule in the Foreign Exchange Regulations, a prior notification of the acquisition must be filed with the Minister of Finance and any other competent Ministers, who may then modify or prohibit the proposed acquisition.

Under the Foreign Exchange Regulations, dividends paid on, and the proceeds of sales in Japan of, shares held by non-residents of Japan may in general be converted into any foreign currency and repatriated abroad. Under the terms of the deposit agreement pursuant to which Toyota’s ADSs are issued, the Depositary is required, to the extent that in its judgment it can convert yen on a reasonable basis into dollars and transfer the resulting dollars to the United States, to convert all cash dividends that it receives in respect of deposited shares into dollars and to distribute the amount received (after deduction of applicable withholding taxes) to the holders of ADSs.

10.E TAXATION

The following discussion is a general summary of the principal U.S. federal income and Japanese national tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of shares of common stock or ADSs. This summary does not purport to address all material tax consequences that may be relevant to holders of shares of common stock or ADSs, and does not take into account the specific circumstances of any particular investors, some of which (such as tax-exempt entities, banks, insurance companies, broker-dealers, traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, partnerships and other pass-through entities, investors liable for the U.S. alternative minimum tax, investors that own or are treated as owning 10% or more of Toyota’s voting stock, investors that hold shares of common stock or ADSs as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion transaction or other integrated transaction and U.S. Holders (as defined below) whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar) may be subject to special tax rules. This summary is based on the tax laws and regulations of the United States and Japan, judicial decisions, published rulings and administrative pronouncements all as in effect on the date hereof,

 

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as well as on the current income tax convention between the United States and Japan (the “Treaty”), as described below, all of which are subject to change (possibly with retroactive effect), and to differing interpretations.

For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” is any beneficial owner of shares of common stock or ADSs that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is:

 

  1. an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States,

 

  2. a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) organized in or under the laws of the United States, any state thereof, or the District of Columbia,

 

  3. an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income tax without regard to its source, or

 

  4. a trust that is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S. court and the control of one or more U.S. persons, or that has a valid election in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

An “Eligible U.S. Holder” is a U.S. Holder that:

 

  1. is a resident of the United States for purposes of the Treaty,

 

  2. does not maintain a permanent establishment in Japan (a) with which the Shares or ADSs are effectively connected and through which the U.S. holder carries on or has carried on business, or (b) of which the Shares or ADSs form part of the business property, and

 

  3. is eligible for benefits under the Treaty with respect to income and gain derived in connection with the shares of common stock or ADSs.

This summary does not address any aspects of U.S. federal tax law other than income taxation, and does not discuss any aspects of Japanese tax law other than such income taxation, as limited to national taxes, inheritance and gift taxation. This summary also does not cover any state or local, or non-U.S., non-Japanese tax considerations. Investors are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal, state and local and Japanese and other tax consequences of acquiring, owning and disposing of shares of common stock or ADSs. In particular, where relevant, investors are urged to confirm their status as Eligible U.S. Holders with their tax advisors and to discuss with their tax advisors any possible consequences of their failure to qualify as Eligible U.S. Holders. In addition, this summary is based in part upon the representations of the depositary and the assumption that each obligation in the deposit agreement, and in any related agreement, will be performed in accordance with its terms.

In general, for purposes of the Treaty and for U.S. federal income and Japanese income tax purposes, owners of ADRs evidencing ADSs will be treated as the owners of the shares of common stock represented by those ADSs, and exchanges of shares of common stock for ADSs, and exchanges of ADSs for shares of common stock, will not be subject to U.S. federal income or Japanese income tax.

The discussion below is intended for general information only and does not constitute a complete analysis of all tax consequences relating to ownership of shares of common stock or ADSs. Prospective purchasers of shares of common stock or ADSs should consult their own tax advisors concerning the tax consequences of their particular situations.

Japanese Taxation

The following is a summary of the principal Japanese tax consequences (limited to national taxes) to non-residents of Japan or non-Japanese corporations without permanent establishments in Japan (“non-resident Holders”) who are holders of shares of common stock or of ADSs.

Generally, non-resident Holders are subject to Japanese withholding tax on dividends paid by Japanese corporations. Stock splits are, in general, not a taxable event.

 

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In the absence of an applicable tax treaty, convention or agreement reducing the maximum rate of Japanese withholding tax or allowing exemption from Japanese withholding tax, the rate of Japanese withholding tax applicable to dividends paid by Japanese corporations to non-resident Holders is generally 20 percent, provided, with respect to dividends paid on listed shares issued by a Japanese corporation (such as the shares of common stock of Toyota) to non-resident Holders, other than any individual shareholder who holds 5 percent or more of the total issued shares issued by the relevant Japanese corporation, the aforementioned 20 percent withholding tax rate is reduced to (i) 7 percent for dividends due and payable on or before March 31, 2009, and (ii) 15 percent for dividends due and payable on or after April 1, 2009. At the date of this annual report, Japan has income tax treaties, conventions or agreements whereby the above-mentioned withholding tax rate is reduced, in most cases to 15 percent or 10 percent for portfolio investors (15 percent under the income tax treaties with, among other countries, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and 10 percent under the income tax treaties with France, the U.K. and the United States.)

Under the Treaty, the maximum rate of Japanese withholding tax which may be imposed on dividends paid by a Japanese corporation to an Eligible U.S. Holder that is a portfolio investor is generally reduced to 10 percent of the gross amount actually distributed, and Japanese withholding tax with respect to dividends paid by a Japanese corporation to an Eligible U.S. Holder that is a pension fund is exempt from Japanese taxation by way of withholding or otherwise unless such dividends are derived from the carrying on of a business, directly or indirectly, by such pension fund.

If the maximum tax rate provided for in the income tax treaty applicable to dividends paid by Toyota to any particular non-resident Holder is lower than the withholding tax rate otherwise applicable under Japanese tax law or any particular non-resident Holder is exempt from Japanese income tax with respect to such dividends under the income tax treaty applicable to such particular non-resident Holder, such non-resident Holder who is entitled to a reduced rate of or exemption from Japanese withholding tax on payment of dividends on shares of common stock by Toyota is required to submit an Application Form for Income Tax Convention Regarding Relief from Japanese Income Tax on Dividends (together with any other required forms and documents) in advance through Toyota to the relevant tax authority before the payment of dividends. A standing proxy for non-resident Holders of a Japanese corporation may provide this application service. With respect to ADSs, this reduced rate or exemption is applicable if the Depositary or its agent submits two Application Forms (one before payment of dividends, the other within eight months after Toyota’s fiscal year-end or semi-fiscal year-end). To claim this reduced rate or exemption, any relevant non-resident Holder of ADSs will be required to file a proof of taxpayer status, residence and beneficial ownership (as applicable) and to provide other information or documents as may be required by the Depositary. A non-resident Holder who is entitled, under an applicable income tax treaty, to a reduced treaty rate lower than the withholding tax rate otherwise applicable under Japanese tax law or an exemption from the withholding tax, but failed to submit the required application in advance will be entitled to claim the refund of withholding taxes withheld in excess of the rate under an applicable tax treaty (if such non-resident Holder is entitled to a reduced treaty rate under the applicable income tax treaty) or the whole of the withholding tax withheld (if such non-resident Holder is entitled to an exemption under the applicable income tax treaty) from the relevant Japanese tax authority.

Gains derived from the sale of shares of common stock or ADSs outside Japan by a non-resident Holder holding such shares of common stock or ADSs as portfolio investors are, in general, not subject to Japanese income tax or corporation tax. Eligible U.S. Holders are not subject to Japanese income or corporation tax with respect to such gains under the Treaty.

Japanese inheritance and gift taxes at progressive rates may be payable by an individual who has acquired shares of common stock or ADSs as a legatee, heir or donee even though neither the individual nor the deceased nor donor is a Japanese resident.

Holders of shares of common stock or ADSs should consult their tax advisors regarding the effect of these taxes and, in the case of U.S. Holders, the possible application of the Estate and Gift Tax Treaty between the U.S. and Japan.

 

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U.S. Federal Income Taxation

U.S. Holders

The following discussion is a summary of the principal U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders that hold those shares of common stock or ADSs as capital assets (generally, for investment purposes).

Taxation of Dividends

Subject to the passive foreign investment company rules discussed below, the gross amount of any distribution made by Toyota in respect of shares of common stock or ADSs (without reduction for Japanese withholding taxes) will constitute a taxable dividend to the extent paid out of current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. The U.S. dollar amount of such a dividend generally will be included in the gross income of a U.S. Holder, as ordinary income, when actually or constructively received by the U.S. Holder, in the case of shares of common stock, or by the depositary, in the case of ADSs. Dividends paid by us will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to U.S. corporations in respect of dividends received from other U.S. corporations.

Under current law, dividends received on shares and ADSs of certain foreign corporations in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011 by non-corporate U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. federal income tax at lower rates than other types of ordinary income if certain conditions are met. Dividends received by non-corporate U.S. Holders with respect to shares of common stock or ADSs of Toyota are expected to be eligible for these reduced rates of tax. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the eligibility of such dividends for a reduced rate of tax.

The U.S. dollar amount of a dividend paid in Japanese yen will be determined based on the Japanese yen/U.S. dollar exchange rate in effect on the date that the dividend is included in the gross income of the U.S. Holder, regardless of whether the payment is converted into U.S. dollars on that date. Generally, any gain or loss resulting from currency exchange fluctuations during the period from the date the dividend payment is included in the gross income of a U.S. Holder through the date that payment is converted into U.S. dollars (or otherwise disposed of) will be treated as U.S. source ordinary income or loss. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the calculation and U.S. federal income tax treatment of foreign currency gain or loss.

To the extent, if any, that the amount of any distribution received by a U.S. Holder in respect of shares of common stock or ADSs exceeds Toyota’s current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles, the distribution first will be treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in those shares or ADSs, and thereafter will be treated as U.S. source capital gain.

Distributions of additional shares of common stock that are made to U.S. Holders with respect to their shares of common stock or ADSs, and that are part of a pro rata distribution to all of Toyota’s shareholders, generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.

For U.S. foreign tax credit purposes, dividends included in gross income by a U.S. Holder in respect of shares of common stock or ADSs will constitute income from sources outside the United States, and will generally be “passive category income” or “general category income”. Subject to generally applicable limitations under U.S. federal income tax law and the Treaty, any Japanese withholding tax imposed in respect of a Toyota dividend may be claimed as a credit against the U.S. federal income tax liability of a U.S. Holder, or alternatively as a deduction in the computation of such U.S. Holder’s taxable income, if the U.S. Holder does not elect to claim a credit for any foreign taxes paid or accrued for the taxable year. Special rules generally will apply to the calculation of foreign tax credits in respect of dividend income that qualifies for preferential U.S. federal income tax rates. Additionally, special rules apply to individuals whose foreign source income during the taxable year

 

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consists entirely of “qualified passive income” and whose creditable foreign taxes paid or accrued during the taxable year do not exceed $300 ($600 in the case of a joint return). Further, under some circumstances, a U.S. Holder that:

(i) has held shares of common stock or ADSs for less than a specified minimum period, or

(ii) is obligated to make payments related to Toyota dividends,

will not be allowed a foreign tax credit for Japanese taxes imposed on Toyota dividends.

U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances. The Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) has expressed concern that parties to whom ADSs are released may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits by U.S. Holders of ADSs. Accordingly, U.S. Holders should be aware that the discussion above regarding the creditability of Japanese withholding tax on dividends could be affected by future actions that may be taken by the IRS.

Taxation of Capital Gains and Losses

In general, upon a sale or other taxable disposition of shares of common stock or ADSs, a U.S. Holder will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on the sale or other taxable disposition and the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in those shares of common stock or ADSs. A U.S. Holder generally will have an adjusted tax basis in a share of common stock or an ADS equal to its U.S. dollar cost. Subject to the passive investment company rules discussed below, gain or loss recognized on the sale or other taxable disposition of shares of common stock or ADSs generally will be capital gain or loss and, if the U.S. Holder’s holding period for those shares or ADSs exceeds one year, will be long-term capital gain or loss. Non-corporate U.S. Holders, including individuals, are eligible for preferential rates of U.S. federal income tax in respect of long-term capital gains. Under U.S. federal income tax law, the deduction of capital losses is subject to limitations. Any gain or loss recognized by a U.S. Holder in respect of the sale or other disposition of shares of common stock or ADSs generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes.

Deposits and withdrawals of common stock in exchange for ADSs will not result in the realization of gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Passive Foreign Investment Companies

A non-U.S. corporation generally will be classified as a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes in any taxable year in which, after applying look-through rules, either (1) at least 75% of its gross income is passive income, or (2) on average at least 50% of the gross value of its assets is attributable to assets that produce passive income or are held for the production of passive income. Passive income for this purpose generally includes dividends, interest, royalties, rents and gains from commodities and securities transactions. The PFIC determination is made annually and generally is based on the value of a non-U.S. corporation’s assets (including goodwill) and composition of its income.

Toyota does not believe that it is a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and intends to continue its operations in such a manner that it will not become a PFIC in the future. Because the PFIC determination is made annually and the application of the PFIC rules to a corporation such as Toyota (which among other things is engaged in leasing and financing through several subsidiaries) is not entirely clear, no assurances can be made regarding determination of its PFIC status in the current or any future taxable year. If Toyota is determined to be a PFIC, U.S. Holders could be subject to additional U.S. federal income taxes on gain recognized with respect to the shares of common stock or ADSs and on certain distributions. In addition, an interest charge may apply to the portion of the U.S. federal income tax liability on such gains or distributions treated under the PFIC rules as

 

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having been deferred by the U.S. Holder. Moreover, dividends that a non-corporate U.S. Holder receives from us will not be eligible for the reduced U.S. federal income tax rates on dividends described above if we are a PFIC either in the taxable year of the dividend or the preceding taxable year. Toyota will inform U.S. Holders if it believes that it will be classified as a PFIC in any taxable year.

Prospective investors should consult their own tax advisors regarding the potential application of the PFIC rules to shares of common stock or ADSs.

Non-U.S. Holders

The following discussion is a summary of the principal U.S. federal income tax consequences to beneficial holders of shares of common stock or ADSs that are neither U.S. Holders nor partnerships, nor entities taxable as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes (“Non-U.S. Holders”).

A Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to any U.S. federal income or withholding tax on distributions received in respect of shares of common stock or ADSs unless the distributions are effectively connected with the conduct by the Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business within the United States (and, if an applicable tax treaty requires, is attributable to a U.S. permanent establishment or fixed base of such Non-U.S. Holder).

A Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax in respect of gain recognized on a sale or other disposition of shares of common stock or ADSs, unless:

(i) the gain is effectively connected with a trade or business conducted by the Non-U.S. Holder within the United States (and, if an applicable tax treaty requires, is attributable to a U.S. permanent establishment or fixed base of such Non-U.S. Holder), or

(ii) the Non-U.S. Holder is an individual who was present in the United States for 183 or more days in the taxable year of the disposition and other conditions are met.

Income that is effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business of a Non-U.S. Holder, and, if an income tax treaty applies and so requires, is attributable to a U.S. permanent establishment or fixed base of the Non-U.S. Holder, generally will be taxed in the same manner as the income of a U.S. Holder. In addition, under certain circumstances, any effectively connected earnings and profits that is realized by a corporate Non-U.S. Holder may be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at the rate of 30% or at a lower rate that may be prescribed by an applicable income tax treaty.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

In general, information reporting requirements will apply to dividends paid to a U.S. Holder in respect of shares of common stock or ADSs, and to the proceeds received upon the sale, exchange or redemption of the shares of common stock or ADSs within the United States by U.S. Holders. Furthermore, a backup withholding tax may apply to those amounts (currently at a 28% rate) if a U.S. Holder fails to provide an accurate tax identification number, to certify that such U.S. Holder is not subject to backup withholding or to otherwise comply with the applicable requirements of the backup withholding requirements.

Dividends paid to a Non-U.S. Holder in respect of shares of common stock or ADSs, and proceeds received in the sale, exchange or redemption of shares of common stock or ADSs by a Non-U.S. Holder, generally are exempt from information reporting and backup withholding under current U.S. federal income tax law. However, a Non-U.S. Holder may be required to provide certification of non-U.S. status in order to obtain that exemption.

Persons required to establish their exempt status generally must provide such certification under penalty of perjury on IRS Form W-9, entitled Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, in the case of

 

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U.S. persons, and on IRS Form W-8BEN, entitled Certificate of Foreign Status (or other appropriate IRS Form W-8), in the case of non-U.S. persons. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. The amount of backup withholding imposed on a payment generally may be claimed as a credit against the holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability provided that the required information is properly furnished to the IRS.

THE SUMMARY OF U.S. FEDERAL INCOME AND JAPANESE NATIONAL TAX CONSEQUENCES SET OUT ABOVE IS INTENDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS OF COMMON STOCK OR ADSs ARE URGED TO CONSULT WITH THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT TO THE PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF OWNING OR DISPOSING OF COMMON STOCK OR ADSs, BASED ON THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES.

10.F DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS

Not applicable.

10.G STATEMENT BY EXPERTS

Not applicable.

10.H DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

Toyota files annual reports on Form 20-F and reports on Form 6-K with the SEC. You may read and copy this information at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549 or by accessing the SEC’s home page (http://www.sec.gov). You can also request copies of the documents, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing to the Public Reference Section of the SEC. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the Public Reference Room. In addition, Toyota’s reports, proxy statements and other information may be inspected at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York 10005. Copies of the documents referred to herein may also be inspected at Toyota’s offices by contacting Toyota at 1 Toyota-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture 471-8571, Japan, attention: Financial Reporting Department, Accounting Division, telephone number: 81-565-28-2121.

10.I SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION

Not applicable.

ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market Risk Disclosures

Toyota is exposed to market risk from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, certain commodity and equity security prices. In order to manage the risk arising from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, Toyota enters into a variety of derivative financial instruments.

A description of Toyota’s accounting policies for derivative instruments is included in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements and further disclosure is provided in notes 20 and 21 to the consolidated financial statements.

Toyota monitors and manages these financial exposures as an integral part of its overall risk management program, which recognizes the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to reduce the potentially adverse effects on Toyota’s operating results.

The financial instruments included in the market risk analysis consist of all of Toyota’s cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, finance receivables, securities investments, long-term and short-term debt and all derivative financial instruments. Toyota’s portfolio of derivative financial instruments consists of forward foreign currency exchange contracts, foreign currency options, interest rate swaps, interest rate currency swap agreements and interest rate options. Anticipated transactions denominated in foreign currencies that are covered

 

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by Toyota’s derivative hedging are not included in the market risk analysis. Although operating leases are not required to be included, Toyota has included these instruments in determining interest rate risk.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

Toyota has foreign currency exposures related to buying, selling and financing in currencies other than the local currencies in which it operates. Toyota is exposed to foreign currency risk related to future earnings or assets and liabilities that are exposed due to operating cash flows and various financial instruments that are denominated in foreign currencies. Toyota’s most significant foreign currency exposures relate to the U.S. dollar and the euro.

Toyota uses a value-at-risk analysis (“VAR”) to evaluate its exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The VAR of the combined foreign exchange position represents a potential loss in pre-tax earnings that was estimated to be ¥33.1 billion as of March 31, 2007 and ¥44.3 billion as of March 31, 2008. Based on Toyota’s overall currency exposure (including derivative positions), the risk during the year ended March 31, 2008 to pre-tax cash flow from currency movements was on average ¥47.0 billion, with a high of ¥53.8 billion and a low of ¥41.9 billion.

The VAR was estimated by using a Monte Carlo Simulation Method and assumed 95% confidence level on the realization date and a 10-day holding period.

Interest Rate Risk

Toyota is subject to market risk from exposures to changes in interest rates based on its financing, investing and cash management activities. Toyota enters into various financial instrument transactions to maintain the desired level of exposure to the risk of interest rate fluctuations and to minimize interest expense. The potential decrease in fair value resulting from a hypothetical 100 basis point upward shift in interest rates would be approximately ¥99.5 billion as of March 31, 2007 and ¥110.6 billion as of March 31, 2008.

There are certain shortcomings inherent to the sensitivity analyses presented. The model assumes that interest rate changes are instantaneous parallel shifts in the yield curve. However, in reality, changes are rarely instantaneous. Although certain assets and liabilities may have similar maturities or periods to repricing, they may not react correspondingly to changes in market interest rates. Also, the interest rates on certain types of assets and liabilities may fluctuate with changes in market interest rates, while interest rates on other types of assets may lag behind changes in market rates. Finance receivables are less susceptible to prepayments when interest rates change and, as a result, Toyota’s model does not address prepayment risk for automotive related finance receivables. However, in the event of a change in interest rates, actual loan prepayments may deviate significantly from the assumptions used in the model.

Commodity Price Risk

Commodity price risk is the possibility of higher or lower costs due to changes in the prices of commodities, such as non-ferrous alloys (e.g., aluminum), precious metals (e.g., palladium, platinum and rhodium) and ferrous alloys, which Toyota uses in the production of motor vehicles. Toyota does not use derivative instruments to hedge the price risk associated with the purchase of those commodities and controls its commodity price risk by holding minimum stock levels.

Equity Price Risk

Toyota holds investments in various available-for-sale equity securities that are subject to price risk. The fair value of available-for-sale equity securities was ¥1,679.8 billion as of March 31, 2007 and ¥1,177.0 billion as of March 31, 2008. The potential change in the fair value of these investments, assuming a 10% change in prices, would be approximately ¥168.0 billion as of March 31, 2007 and ¥117.7 billion as of March 31, 2008.

ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

Not applicable.

 

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PART II

ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

None.

ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) DISCLOSURES CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Toyota performed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the fiscal 2008. Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that the material financial and non-financial information required to be disclosed in the Form 20-F that Toyota files under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to its management including the chief executive officer and the principal accounting and financial officer. The disclosure controls and procedures also ensures that the Form 20-F that it files under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms. The evaluation was performed under the supervision of Fujio Cho, Toyota’s Chairman of the Board and Mitsuo Kinoshita, Toyota’s Executive Vice President, Member of the Board. Toyota’s disclosures controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving its objectives. Managerial judgment was necessary to evaluate the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Mr. Cho and Mr. Kinoshita have concluded that Toyota’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective at the reasonable assurance level.

 

(b) MANAGEMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Toyota’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S.GAAP. Toyota’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of Toyota’s assets;

(ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S.GAAP, and that Toyota’s receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of Toyota’s management and directors; and

(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of Toyota’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Toyota’s management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

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Based on this evaluation, management concluded that Toyota’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of March 31, 2008.

PricewaterhouseCoopers Aarata, an independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements included in this report, has also audited the effectiveness of Toyota’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2008, as stated in its report included herein.

(c) ATTESTATION REPORT OF THE REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Toyota’s independent registered public accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers Aarata, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of Toyota’s internal control over financial reporting. This report appears in Item 18.

(d) CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

There have been no changes in Toyota’s internal control over financial reporting during fiscal 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Toyota’s internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 16. [RESERVED]

ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

Toyota maintains a corporate auditor system, in accordance with the Corporation Act. Toyota’s board of corporate auditors is comprised of seven corporate auditors, four of whom are outside corporate auditors. Each corporate auditor has been appointed at Toyota’s shareholders’ meetings and has certain statutory powers independently, including auditing the business affairs and accounts of Toyota.

Toyota’s board of corporate auditors has determined that it does not have an “audit committee financial expert” serving on the board of corporate auditors. The qualifications for, and powers of, the corporate auditor delineated in the Corporation Act is different from those anticipated for any audit committee financial expert. Corporate auditors have the authority to be given reports from a certified public accountant or an accounting firm concerning audits, including technical accounting matters. At the same time, each corporate auditor has the authority to consult internal and external experts on accounting matters. Each corporate auditor must fulfill the requirements under Japanese laws and regulations and otherwise follow Japanese corporate governance practices and, accordingly, Toyota’s board of corporate auditors has confirmed that it is not necessarily in Toyota’s best interest to nominate as corporate auditor a person who meets the definition of audit committee financial experts. Although Toyota does not have an audit committee financial expert on its board of corporate auditors, Toyota believes that Toyota’s current corporate governance system, taken as a whole, including the corporate auditors’ ability to consult internal and external experts, is fully equivalent to a system having an audit committee financial expert on its board of corporate auditors.

ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS

Toyota has adopted a code of ethics that applies to its directors and managing officers, including its principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. A copy of Toyota’s code of ethics is incorporated by reference as an exhibit to this annual report on Form 20-F.

ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

PricewaterhouseCoopers Aarata has audited the financial statements of Toyota included in this annual report on Form 20-F.

 

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The following table presents the aggregate fees for professional services and other services rendered by PricewaterhouseCoopers Aarata and the various network and member firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers to Toyota in fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007.

 

     Yen in millions
     2007    2008

Audit Fees(1)

   3,779    3,619

Audit-related Fees(2)

   180    139

Tax Fees(3)

   679    833

All Other Fees(4)

   98    122

Total

   4,736    4,713

 

(1) Audit Fees consist of fees billed for the annual audit services engagement and other audit services, which are those services that only the external auditor reasonably can provide, and include the services of annual audit, quarter reviews, semi-annual reviews and assessment and reviews of the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting of Toyota and its subsidiaries and affiliates; the services associated with SEC registration statements or other documents issued in connection with securities offerings such as comfort letters and consents; consultations as to the accounting or disclosure treatment of transactions or events.
(2) Audit-related Fees consist of fees billed for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of its financial statements or that are traditionally performed by the external auditor, and mainly include the services such as due diligence; agreed-upon or expanded audit procedures; internal control reviews and assistance; review of the effectiveness of the internal audit function; assistance with implementation of the requirements of SEC rules pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; financial statement audits of employee benefit plans.
(3) Tax Fees include fees billed for tax compliance services, including the services such as tax planning, advice and compliance of federal, state, local and international tax; the review of tax returns; assistance with tax audits and appeals; tax only valuation services including transfer pricing and cost segregation studies; expatriate tax assistance and compliance.
(4) All Other Fees mainly include fees billed for risk management advisory services of assessment and testing of security infrastructure controls; advisory services relating to accounting manual and accounting control; advisory services relating to establishment of a new subsidiary; assistance with continuing education and training; services providing information related to automotive market conditions and sales networks and advisory services on information systems related to dealer controls.

Policies and Procedures of the Board of Corporate Auditors

Below is a summary of the current policies and procedures of the board of corporate auditors for the pre-approval of audit and permissible non-audit services performed by Toyota’s independent public accountants.

Under the policy, the Representative Directors submit a request for general pre-approval of audit and permissible non-audit services for the following fiscal year, which shall include details of the specific services and estimated fees for the services, to the board of corporate auditors, which reviews and determines whether or not to grant the request by the end of March of the fiscal year. Upon the general pre-approval of the board of corporate auditors, the Representative Directors are not required to obtain any specific pre-approval for audit and permissible non-audit services so long as those services fall within the scope of the general pre-approval provided.

The board of corporate auditors makes further determination of whether or not to grant a request to revise the general pre-approval for the applicable fiscal year if such request is submitted by the Representative Directors or the Managing Officer authorized by the Representative Director. Such request may include (i) adding any audit or permissible non-audit services other than the ones listed in the general pre-approval and (ii) obtaining

 

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services, which are listed in the general pre-approval but of which the total fee amount exceeds the amount affirmed by the general pre-approval. The determination of whether or not to grant a request to revise the general pre-approval noted in the foregoing may alternatively be made by an Executive Corporate Auditor, who is designated in advance by a resolution of the board of corporate auditors, in which case such Executive Corporate Auditor shall report such decision at the next meeting of the board of corporate auditors. The performance of audit and permissible non-audit services and the payment of fees are subject to review by the board of corporate auditors at least once every fiscal half year.

ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Toyota does not have an audit committee. Toyota is relying on the general exemption contained in Rule 10A-3(c)(3) under the Exchange Act, which provides an exemption from the NYSE’s listing standards relating to audit committees for foreign companies like Toyota that have a board of corporate auditors. Toyota’s reliance on Rule 10A-3(c)(3) does not, in its opinion, materially adversely affect the ability of its board of corporate auditors to act independently and to satisfy the other requirements of Rule 10A-3.

ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

The following table sets forth purchases of Toyota’s common stock by Toyota and its affiliated purchasers during fiscal 2008:

 

Period

  (a) Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased1
  (b) Average
Price Paid
per Share
(Yen)
  (c) Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs2
  (d) Maximum
Number of
Shares that
May Yet Be

Purchased
Under
the Plans or
Programs2

April 1, 2007 – April 30, 2007

  5,929   ¥ 7,417.77   0   11,049,900

May 1, 2007 – May 31, 2007

  7,351     7,308.05   8,619,200   2,430,700

June 1, 2007 – June 30, 2007

  8,101     7,577.33   0   30,000,000

July 1, 2007 – July 31, 2007

  19,677     7,685.91   0   30,000,000

August 1, 2007 – August 31, 2007

  7,083     7,294.71   5,000,000   25,000,000

September 1, 2007 – September 30, 2007

  3,439     6,585.19   0   25,000,000

October 1, 2007 – October 31, 2007

  6,624     6,563.85   0   25,000,000

November 1, 2007 – November 30, 2007

  5,222     6,137.17   15,000,000   10,000,000

December 1, 2007 – December 31, 2007

  9,469     6,149.14   0   10,000,000

January 1, 2008 – January 31, 2008

  4,631     5,751.15   0   10,000,000

February 1, 2008 – February 29, 2008

  3,953     6,116.37   19,528,000   2,472,000

March 1, 2008 – March 31, 2008

  2,661     4,970.80   0   2,472,000
                 

Total

  84,140     —     48,147,200   —  
                 

 

1 All purchases other than purchases publicly announced were made as a result of holders of shares constituting less than one unit, which is 100 shares of common stock, requesting Toyota to purchase shares that are a fraction of a unit, in accordance with Toyota’s share handling regulations. Toyota is required to comply with such requests pursuant to the Corporation Act (or until the Corporation Act became effective, the Commercial Code). See “Memorandum and Articles of Association — Japanese Unit Share System.”

 

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2 On June 23, 2006, share repurchases were approved at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting pursuant to which Toyota may purchase during a one-year period until the next ordinary general shareholders’ meeting up to the lesser of 30,000,000 shares of common stock or the number of shares equivalent to ¥200.0 billion in cost of repurchase. This share repurchase program expired on June 22, 2007. For a discussion of past and current share repurchases, see “Business Overview — Toyota’s Strategy — Focus on Shareholder Value.”

On June 22, 2007, share repurchases were approved at the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting pursuant to which Toyota may purchase during a one-year period until the next ordinary general shareholders’ meeting up to the lesser of 30,000,000 shares of common stock or the number of shares equivalent to ¥250.0 billion in cost of repurchase. This share repurchase program expired on February 13, 2008.

On February 5, 2008, share repurchases were approved at the board of directors’ meeting pursuant to which Toyota may purchase from February 18, 2008 to February 29, 2008 up to the lesser of 12,000,000 shares of common stock or the number of shares equivalent to ¥60.0 billion in cost of repurchase. As of March 31, 2008, approximately 9,520,000 shares at a cost of ¥59.9 billion were repurchased.

 

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PART III

ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Not applicable.

ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following financial statements are filed as part of this annual report on Form 20-F.

 

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TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

     Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   F - 2

Consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2007 and 2008

   F - 3

Consolidated statements of income for the years ended
March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008

  

F - 5

Consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity for the years ended
March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008

  

F - 6

Consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended
March 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008

  

F - 8

Notes to consolidated financial statements

   F - 10

All financial statement schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the financial statements or the notes thereto.

Financial statements of 50% or less owned persons accounted for by the equity method have been omitted because the registrant’s proportionate share of the income from continuing operations before income taxes is less than 20% of consolidated income from continuing operations before income taxes and the investment in and advances to each company is less than 20% of consolidated total assets.

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha

(“Toyota Motor Corporation”)

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Toyota Motor Corporation and its subsidiaries at March 31, 2007 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 15(b). Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits (which were integrated audits for the years ended March 31, 2007 and 2008). We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers Aarata

Nagoya, Japan

June 24, 2008

 

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Table of Contents

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

ASSETS

 

     Yen in millions     U.S. dollars
in millions
 
     March 31,     March 31,  
     2007     2008     2008  

Current assets

      

Cash and cash equivalents

   ¥ 1,900,379     ¥ 1,628,547     $ 16,255  

Time deposits

     26,709       134,773       1,345  

Marketable securities

     435,463       542,210       5,412  

Trade accounts and notes receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of ¥24,782 million in 2007 and ¥17,471 million ($175 million) in 2008

     2,023,818       2,040,233       20,364  

Finance receivables, net

     4,108,139       4,301,142       42,930  

Other receivables

     486,170       523,533       5,225  

Inventories

     1,803,956       1,825,716