Though Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota Motor Company and grandson of founder Kiichiro Toyoda, could not have received any accolades from the “Future Is EV” camp, he’s widely known as being a automotive man by and thru. Whether or not or not it’s his a number of exploits within the Nurburgring 24-Hours, turning as much as occasions in a one-off Century GRMN, or pushing the model to cease making “boring vehicles,” he’s received himself followers from all corners of the auto neighborhood.
In but extra proof that Toyoda-san is gunning for the title of “most likable automotive govt,” he seems to be very happy to provide his homegrown competitors the thumbs up by way of a current video launched by Toyota’s official Japanese PR channel. As of writing, the clip has garnered near 16 million views and was even reshared by Honda themselves.
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The brief clip, posted to X (previously Twitter), exhibits Toyoda, also referred to as Morizo, behind the wheel of a Honda HR-V (or Vezel, because it’s recognized domestically). The transient trade takes place in Japanese, however off digital camera, we hear somebody ask the Toyota Chairman, “What automotive is that this?,” to which Toyoda excitedly exclaims, “It’s a Honda!” That is adopted by a thumbs up and a smile, displaying that the previous CEO doubtless approves of his rival’s product.
Toyoda was seen piloting the Honda HR-V throughout a recce for Rally Hokkaido. Morizo was billed to do an indication run within the GR Yaris Rally1 that competes within the WRC. It’s widespread for drivers and navigators to lease road-going vehicles to take a look at levels previous to an occasion, though we’re positive many executives would insist on staying “on model” in such a state of affairs. That stated, it’s evident that Toyoda has no hangups about sampling his rival’s merchandise — not to mention posting it to their firm’s socials. The video launched on X concludes with the digital camera zooming in on the Honda badge, adopted by their “The Energy Of Desires” slogan — a pleasant mark of respect from Toyota to their compatriots.
Driving shotgun within the Honda is Finnish former rally driver Juha Kankkunen. Kankkunen is a winner of 4 World Rally Championships, the final being in 1993 behind the wheel of a Toyota Celica Turbo. He additionally tasted success with Peugeot and Lancia within the ’80s. Kankkunen served as a navigator for Toyoda throughout the demonstration run — fairly the two-man combo, we’re positive you’ll agree.