Toyota surpasses Ford to become number 2 carmaker in the US

Japanese carmaker, Toyota, has become the number 2 carmaker in the US, out-performing its rival Ford Motor.

Toyota has experienced strong sales following its success of its pioneering petrol/electricity hybrid, the Prius, and new models of popular car ranges like the Camry Sedan and Corolla.

Last year, Toyota sold 2.62 million vehicles in the US, up 2.7% compared with 2006. Ford’s sales plummeted 12% to 2.57 million vehicles.

The century-old Ford Motor Group based in Detroit, has held the number 2 spot for over 70 years, General Motors (GM) holds the top spot. However, Toyota is set to end GM’s reign, sales figures are expected later this month.

GM sold 3.82 million units in the US in 2007, 6% less compared with 2006. GM noted earlier this week that its market share grew in most other regions.

A spokesperson for Ford said they are accelerating the introduction of new models. Details were not provided but the priority was to leverage Ford’s well-regarded European vehicle line-up to regain market share in North America. Ford aims to return to profitability by 2009.

GM, Toyota and Ford all reported sales declines in December compared with 12 months earlier in the wake of the housing slump, tighter credit conditions and high fuel prices.

The battle for the top spot between Toyota and GM will be eagerly monitored but a spokesperson for Toyota said overtaking GM was not Toyota’s first priority.

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