Former Toyota chief Hiroshi Okuda, architect of global expansion, passes away at 93

Toyota Motor Corp. reported that Hiroshi Okuda, the former chief executive who guided the company’s rise in global markets, died at 93, though the exact date and cause remain undisclosed. Okuda served as president and later chairman from 1995 through 2006, playing a pivotal role in introducing the Prius hybrid in 1997 and promoting fuel-efficient models such as the Camry. He directed the establishment of manufacturing plants in the United States and Europe, helping Toyota become a worldwide automotive leader.

A graduate of Hitotsubashi University, Okuda was known for his outspoken personality, judo black belt, and advocacy for younger management within Japanese corporations. He also chaired several influential bodies, including Keidanren and the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association. Funeral arrangements are being handled by his family, with public ceremonies to be announced later.