Toyota production slows post-tsunami
Logistics issues and power shortages force production halts at Toyota's Japanese and international plantsToyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has been forced to make several adjustments to its global production schedule following the devastating earthquake and ensuing tsunami that struck Japan last month.
Although TMC will continue to produce vehicles at all of its Japanese plants until April 27, current production volume is said to be half that of its nominal rate due primarily to logistics issues and severely reduced electricity supply that resulted from the March 11 disaster.
From April 27 to May 9, all of Toyota's production facilities will enter their annual spring holiday phase (zero production) with a further decision on production to be made after the manufacturer's parts supply situation is reassessed.
A reduction in the production of parts at some of the brand's Japanese plants has caused a halt in production elsewhere across the Toyota globe, including Europe where manufacturing facilities in the UK, France and Turkey will be temporarily shuttered for eight days beginning April 21 due to a supply issue with several Japanese-sourced components.
Engine plants in the UK and Poland are also affected by the shortage.
A Toyota spokesperson told press that while its European factories scheduled for shutdown are yet to experience shortages in the supply of parts, there will be an interruption to that supply, as the effects of the earthquake on parts suppliers begins to be felt. Toyota's international plants have so far been supplied with parts that were already en route when the earthquake struck, with many shipments taking weeks to reach their destination.
Locally, Toyota Australia will continue to monitor the supply condition of vehicles, parts and subcomponents sourced from Japan, though to date the company claims there has been no impact on production at the firm's Altona plant.
Ford is also reported to be facing similar issues, its Philippines plant closed for 18 days over parts supply interruptions. Models including the Escape, Focus, Ranger and several Mazda models are built in the Philippines for consumption by the brand's Southeast Asian market.
At this stage, it is not clear if Mazda production is affected.
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