TORRANCE, Calif. -

As another of the automaker’s top executives prepares to address another large industry gathering, one of Toyota’s high-level managers confirmed that Toyota’s North American production has returned to 100 percent.

Steve St. Angelo indicated the OEM’s recovery is well ahead of initial expectations. The Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing executive vice president made the assessment this week when appearing at the Toyota USA Automobile Museum to address the Los Angeles Motor Press Guild.

Shortly after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Toyota forecasted a return to normal production levels by November or December.

In June, Toyota highlighted eight of the company’s 12 North American built models returned to 100 percent, including Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Matrix, Highlander, Sienna, Sequoia and Venza. 

St. Angelo’s proclamation affirmed 100 percent production of the remaining four vehicles, including Tacoma, Tundra, RAV 4 and Lexus RX 350.
Together, those 12 models account for nearly 70 percent of Toyota’s U.S. sales.

With Japan-based production also restored to normal levels, Toyota insisted it will focus on replenishing dealer inventories through overtime and Saturday shifts at certain plants. The company estimated production levels in the fourth quarter will be approximately 15 percent higher than forecasted prior to the earthquake and tsunami.

“The recovery is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our North American team members, suppliers and business partners,” St. Angelo said

“All of us at Toyota greatly appreciate the patience and support of our customers and dealers, many of whom have made generous donations in support of the relief efforts in Japan," he continued.

“Looking ahead, we’re excited about our extensive product launch schedule over the coming months, including the all-new 2012 Camry and Camry Hybrid,” St. Angelo went on to say. “I have no doubt that our team continues to be focused on building the highest quality vehicles for our customers.”

Separately, the company also confirmed that Toyota’s Alabama engine plant will begin four-cylinder engine production this month.

Officials pointed out the Huntsville plant, which already builds six- and eight-cylinder engines for trucks, will build the four-cylinder for Camry, Highlander, RAV4, Venza and Sienna.

In addition, the OEM mentioned plans for Toyota’s 14th North American plant in Mississippi remain on track with Corolla production scheduled to begin in October.

That plant is hiring 2,000 team members, according to the automaker.

Lexus’ Templin to Serve as Keynote Speaker at AIADA’s 42nd Annual Meeting and Luncheon

All of the positive news coming from the company leaves Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager at Lexus, with plenty to share.

Then Wednesday, the American International Automobile Dealers Association announced Templin will provide keynote remarks at AIADA’s 42nd annual Meeting and Luncheon on Feb. 6 in Las Vegas.

AIADA highlighted the meeting’s theme — A Legacy of Leadership — will examine how today’s international nameplate dealers are defining the future of the U.S. auto industry.

“Lexus has proven itself a leader in the U.S. auto market, and Mark Templin has played a central role in making it one of today’s most popular luxury brands,” noted AIADA president Cody Lusk.

“His remarks will provide invaluable perspective for dealers considering how our industry can continue to lead in the U.S,” Lusk added.

AIADA highlighted Templin oversees all activities of Lexus’ operations, including sales and marketing, retail development, customer satisfaction and product planning.

The association recapped Templin joined Toyota Motor Sales USA in 1990 and since then has served in a variety of roles including general manager, Lexus Southern Area; sales administration manager and retail operations manager at the brand’s national headquarters in Torrance, Calif.

Templin also has been vice president of Lexus customer service and vice president of Lexus marketing.

Prior to his current position he served as vice president of Scion where he was responsible for all of the brand’s activities.

Before joining Toyota, Templin held positions at General Motors’ Oldsmobile Division.

In addition to Templin’s remarks, AIADA’s 42nd annual Meeting and Luncheon will include the presentation of the David F. Mungenast Lifetime Achievement Award and the passing of AIADA’s chairman’s gavel from the current chairman Jim Smail, of Pennsylvania, to chairman elect Ray Mungenast, of Missouri.

Registration for the meeting is available online at www.AIADA.org or by calling (800) GO-AIADA.