Toyota-VW battle in ‘world no.1’ row

Sales figure confusion leads to verbal bust up

Auto Express Car Reviews

13th November 2009

A war of words has broken out between Toyota and VW over which is the world’s number one automotive manufacturer.

The Japanese firm, which took the crown from GM in January, has challenged claims that VW now makes more cars.

Analysts concluded that production cuts had put it behind VW’s 4.4 million total. But the former says it built over 4.9 million to September.

Analyst IHS Global stands by its figures, arguing that there are different ways to calculate production volume. But it’s agreed that if VW is in front, it is only for the short-term as Toyota recovers from the financial crisis.

A VW spokesman says the firm plans to eventually surpass Toyota – in 2018.

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous Next >

2 Comments

whats the point?

whats the point of an argument like this?
it all depends on how many you sell, not how many you make!

By lucasworld on 19 November, 2009, 1:53am

VW

VW has nothing to do against Toyota. They can grow for a while, buying new car makers but, in the long run, Toyota will end up selling many more units. Time will tell. 4 million cars for Toyota is a hilarious number and we know it is due to readjust, market crisis and the fact that the year hasn't ended yet. What is important is was lucasworld said, the important figures are those related to sales and there, once again, VW has nothing to do, not in the next 10 years. It doesn't matter how many established makers thay buy. People aren't stupid and while VWs such as Golf give many problems in the long run, a Toyota mostly doesn't and that is what counts in the end for a clever customer. Let's us discuss this at the end of this year and the next one.

By miguel117 on 20 November, 2009, 4:21pm

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.