In recognition of his global automotive leadership that has brought passion, performance, and purpose into modern mobility, Toyota Motor Corporation’s Chairman Akio Toyoda was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Detroit.

The honor recognizes leaders, innovators and visionaries whose work has shaped the global automotive and mobility industry. Toyoda’s fellow inductees in the Class of 2026 included Giampaolo Dallara, one of motorsports’ leading engineers and founder of the renowned racing car constructor Dallara, as well as Tom Barrett and Russ Jackson, co-founders of the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction company.

Akio Toyoda is the fourth member of the Toyoda family inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame, joining his grandfather, Kiichiro; his father, Shoichiro; and Eiji Toyoda, his grandfather’s cousin. Fellow inductee Taiichi Ohno, widely regarded as the father of the Toyota Production System, is also among Toyota’s honorees.

“Like my grandfather and father before me, I am deeply moved by this honor, and I humbly promise to continue to earn it every day in support of this industry and this automotive family that I am so grateful to be a part of,” said Toyoda during his acceptance speech.

Speaking to the industry, Toyoda said: “Together, we have an extraordinary ability to make people’s lives better. And like all good superheroes, I believe we should unite strengths and use our collective power for good!”

“What if we focused a little less on competing and a little more on collaboration, on what we can do together to make a positive impact? I mean, wouldn’t it be great if we could just all row together? You know, like the Norwegian fans at the World Cup?” Toyoda raised both fists in front of his chest and called out, “Ro!”

“Together, there is nothing we can’t imagine, nothing we can’t create, and nothing we can’t overcome. So, wherever the road takes us, let’s enjoy the ride together!”

Toyoda became president of TMC in 2009, assuming leadership during one of the most challenging periods in the company’s history. During that time, he led efforts to strengthen quality controls, rebuild trust in the Toyota brand, and reinforce the company’s business foundation.

Toyoda also accelerated decision-making and advanced a region-led management structure by listening closely to customers, dealers, suppliers, employees, and other stakeholders. Under his leadership, “making ever-better cars” became central to Toyota’s management philosophy. 

As a master driver, Toyoda has further positioned motorsports as a proving ground for developing both people and vehicles. These efforts have contributed to stronger products and built a culture in which team members are encouraged to take on challenges from a genchi genbutsu, or “go and see,” perspective.