Toyoda joins Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2026

MANILA: Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda has been inducted as part of the global Automotive Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

The Japanese automaker’s top executive received the recognition from the award-giving body for “redefining global automotive leadership through a driver-first philosophy and restoring passion, performance, and purpose to modern mobility.”

On his Instagram page, Toyoda expressed gratitude over the recently-bestowed accolade — joining more than 300 individuals from around the world.

“This recognition is especially meaningful to me, as my grandfather, Kiichiro Toyoda, also received this honor, and his vision and courage laid the foundation for everything we strive to achieve at Toyota today,” he said.

“I would like to accept this nomination on behalf of the many Toyota team members who have supported me throughout my journey and who work every day to provide mobility for all,” he added.

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Further, he also lauded his fellow inductees, saying that their respective contributions continue to inspire everyone.

The Class of 2026 was unveiled during an exclusive reception held last February 7 in Naples, Florida. This was presented by JM Family Enterprises and hosted in partnership with the Naples Automotive Experience.

Aside from Toyoda, the list for this year’s inductees includes:

• Giampaolo Dallara: owner of Dallara Motorsports
• Harold Goddijn, Corinne Vigreux, Peter Frans Pauwels, and Pieter Geelen: founders of TomTom
• Tom Barrett and Russ Jackson: owners of Barrett-Jackson American collector car company

“Induction into the Automotive Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed in the global automotive industry, and the Class of 2026 exemplifies the vision, courage, and lasting impact that honor represents,” Automotive Hall of Fame President Sarah Cook was quoted as saying.

“These inductees have not only shaped the industry in their own time, but have also inspired generations of engineers, leaders, and enthusiasts around the world,” she added.

The formal Automotive Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on September 23, 2026, in downtown Detroit, Michigan, at The Department at Hudson’s.

“The Automotive Hall of Fame selection process is both rigorous and deeply intentional,” Automotive Hall of Fame Chairman and Awards Nominations Committee Member Jon Husby noted.

 “Each member of the Class of 2026 was chosen for their enduring contributions to mobility and their influence on the future of the automotive industry. We are proud to welcome them into this distinguished global circle.”

In the past, Toyoda has received numerous accolades in the past, among them was the World Car Person of the Year back in 2021.

The brand’s chief executive, who is also known in the motorsport world as Morizo, graced the Toyota Motor Philippines’ 35th anniversary back in 2023 and even showcased his drifting skills with the Toyota GR Yaris WRC rally car at the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival.

Also read:

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