Key facts
- Hiroshi Okuda has died at the age of 93.
- Okuda led Toyota's global expansion.
- He spearheaded the development of the hybrid Prius.
- Okuda served as Toyota's president from 1995 to 1999.
- He served as Toyota's chairman from 1999 to 2006.
Hiroshi Okuda, a key figure in Toyota's global growth and the driving force behind the creation of the hybrid Prius, has passed away at the age of 93. Okuda held significant leadership positions within the company, serving as its president from 1995 to 1999. He then transitioned to the role of chairman, a position he held from 1999 until 2006. During his leadership, Toyota experienced substantial international expansion. Okuda's vision was particularly crucial in the development and launch of the Toyota Prius, a vehicle that became a symbol of hybrid technology and environmental consciousness in the automotive sector. His tenure marked a transformative period for the company, solidifying its presence in markets worldwide and pioneering innovative automotive solutions.