Takao Tsuchioka

Takao Tsuchioka asked about Toyota's engineering development direction, specifically regarding L2 and autonomous driving technologies, comparing Toyota's capabilities and future policy against accelerating efforts from Tesla and Chinese players. He also inquired if Kenta Kon's selection as president signifies an acceleration in technology development.

Answer

Kenta Kon, Incoming CEO, explained that Toyota's focus includes SDVs and achieving zero traffic accidents. He acknowledged learning from early entrants like Tesla but highlighted Toyota's strength in leveraging its vast data from 10 million annual sales and 150 million vehicles in operation to catch up quickly, alongside existing TSS for customer safety. Kon stated his primary role is to establish a robust profit structure and create an environment for engineers to invest in and explore various technological options, rather than directly leading technical development.

Takao Tsuchioka from Nikkei Cross Tech inquired about Toyota's engineering development direction, specifically regarding N2 and autonomous driving technologies, comparing Toyota's capabilities and future policy against competitors like Tesla and Chinese players. He also asked if Kon-san's selection as president signifies an acceleration in technology development.

Answer

Kenta Kon, Incoming CEO, explained Toyota's approach to SDVs and autonomous driving, aiming for zero traffic accidents. He acknowledged learning from early AI/ML-based system entrants but highlighted Toyota's strength in leveraging data from 10 million annual sales and 150 million vehicles in operation. Kon clarified his role is to establish a robust profit structure and an environment for engineers to innovate and take courageous challenges, rather than directly leading technical development.