Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda calls on carmakers to cooperate — Motor1

Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda called on automakers to join forces and rely less on rivalry in Detroit, United States, on September 23, 2026. The speech took place during Toyoda's induction ceremony at the Automotive Hall of Fame, Motor1 reports.

Recognition for the Toyoda family

Akio Toyoda became the fourth member of his family to be inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame. Before him, this honor was awarded to his grandfather Kiichiro Toyoda, his father Shoichiro Toyoda, and Eiji Toyoda, Kiichiro Toyoda's cousin.

In total, five people from Toyota have entered the Automotive Hall of Fame, including four members of the Toyoda family. The Automotive Hall of Fame has honored industry figures since 1939; its more than 300 members include Henry Ford and Ferdinand Porsche.

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Call for joint action

More than 700 representatives of automakers, dealers, suppliers, and motorsport professionals attended the ceremony. Penske Automotive Group Vice Chairman Greg Penske, introducing Toyoda, noted his courage in trusting his own instincts.

Toyoda thanked Toyota's partners, employees, and customers and said that the honor belonged not only to him. He said that through joint efforts, participants in the automotive industry can significantly improve people's lives.

Toyoda did not announce the creation of a new alliance or a specific joint project, but called on competitors to cooperate more actively in shaping the future of mobility. Italian engineer Giampaolo Dallara, known for his long-standing work on chassis for racing cars, was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame class of 2026 alongside him.