Q

who is toyota ceo

Toyota's current CEO is Koji Sato, who officially took over as President and CEO from Akio Toyoda on April 1, 2023, tasked with leading the Toyota Group's global strategy and business development. Sato previously headed up Toyota's luxury marque Lexus and brings extensive experience in electric vehicles and carbon neutrality to the top job. His appointment signals Toyota's push to further accelerate its electrification transformation and technological innovation. In the Malaysian market, Toyota has long been a leading Japanese brand by sales, with popular models like the Vios, Corolla Cross, and Hilux in its local lineup. Sato's leadership could shape Toyota's future product strategy in Southeast Asia, potentially ramping up the introduction of hybrid or fully electric models. Malaysian consumers can expect Toyota to keep delivering the reliable, locally-tailored vehicles they know, while the brand may also strengthen ties with local partners like UMW Toyota Motor to stay competitive in the regional market.
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Related Q&A

Q
What is the EV sales in May 2025?
As of May 2025, specific monthly sales data for Malaysia's electric vehicle (EV) market has not yet been publicly disclosed, but the overall trend can be inferred from comprehensive industry reports and registration statistics. In the first four months of 2025, BYD led the market with cumulative registrations of 3,207 units, followed by Proton eMas 7 at 2,537 units, while Tesla ranked third with 735 units. Extrapolating from the first three quarters' data, BYD's annual sales are projected to surpass 8,417 units, with Proton reaching 6,212 units, reflecting dual-track growth in both pure electric models (e.g., BYD Sealion 7 and Atto 3) and localized offerings (e.g., Proton eMas 7). Market expansion is fueled by policy incentives (including import duty exemptions) and product diversification, though charging infrastructure (currently around 2,000 public chargers) and local production capacity remain critical bottlenecks. The government targets a 20% EV adoption rate by 2030, against the current 7% penetration, highlighting coexisting growth potential and challenges.
Q
Does 7th gear exist?
The 7-speed gearbox does exist; it is an automatic transmission with 7 forward gears, commonly found in models using dual-clutch technology. The gear settings of such gearboxes include Park (P), Reverse (R), Neutral (N), and Drive (D). Some models also offer specific gears like D1, D2 and a Sport mode (S) to meet different driving needs. The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox operates through the alternating engagement of two clutches: one responsible for odd-numbered gears (1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th), and the other managing even-numbered gears (2nd, 4th, 6th), enabling rapid and seamless gear shifts while balancing fuel efficiency and power responsiveness. Based on clutch type, it can be categorized into dry and wet variants. The dry-type features a simpler structure and higher transmission efficiency but inferior heat dissipation, making it suitable for small-displacement engines; the wet-type employs oil cooling to handle greater torque, albeit at higher cost. Such transmissions have been extensively adopted in numerous mainstream models in domestic markets, demonstrating high technical maturity, with future development trends focusing on intelligentization and weight reduction. Notably, the 7th gear in these transmissions typically serves as an overdrive ratio designed for highway cruising, effectively lowering engine RPM and enhancing fuel economy.
Q
Is a V14 engine possible?
The V14 engine does exist, but it is a relatively rare configuration, mainly used in large medium-speed diesel engines for power generation and marine propulsion. This type of engine adopts a V-shaped arrangement with two banks of 7 cylinders each, which can provide higher power output and lower emissions. For example, the MAN B&W V14 engine has a power range of 7,000 to 16,800 kilowatts and has been used in some cruise ships such as "Explorer Dream" and "Norwegian Spirit". However, the V14 design is hardly used in the passenger car market due to its large size and high cost, making it more suitable for industrial or marine applications with fewer space constraints. Currently, the mainstream passenger car engines are still four-cylinder, six-cylinder or eight-cylinder, balancing performance and fuel economy. There are also products with similar names in the hydromechanical field, such as the Parker V14 series of bent-axis piston motors, but they are hydraulic system components and have nothing to do with internal combustion engines.
Q
Why do cars have seatbelt alarms?
Cars come with seatbelt reminder alerts mainly to boost driving safety, using audio or visual cues to get passengers to buckle up and cut down on injury risks in accidents. Studies show that proper seatbelt use can slash the chance of fatal injuries by around 50%, which is why so many countries make this feature a mandatory standard. Modern vehicle alert systems usually go with a progressive reminder—starting with a gentle chime, then ramping up if ignored. Some models even show exactly which seatbelt isn’t fastened on the dashboard. Beyond legal requirements, these designs also highlight automakers’ focus on safety tech. Take high-end models, for example—some link up with pre-tensioning seatbelts or airbag systems to automatically tighten before a crash. It’s worth noting, though, while alerts do a solid job of increasing seatbelt use, drivers forming the habit of buckling up on their own is way more crucial. After all, no matter how advanced the reminder, it can’t replace personal safety awareness.
Q
What happens if a passenger doesn't wear a seatbelt?
If passengers don't wear seatbelts, they first face legal risks. According to traffic laws, all passengers in a vehicle must wear seatbelts; otherwise, they could be fined. More importantly, not wearing a seatbelt drastically increases the risk of injury in an accident. When a vehicle suddenly decelerates or crashes, passengers might be thrown from their seats, hit hard objects inside the car, or even ejected from the vehicle entirely, leading to severe injuries or death. Seatbelts are designed to hold passengers in place during a crash, distribute the force of impact, and reduce harm to the head, chest, and spine. Additionally, not wearing a seatbelt can compromise the effectiveness of airbags. Airbags work in conjunction with seatbelts, and using an airbag alone could even cause secondary injuries. It's worth noting that accidents can happen suddenly, even at low speeds or during short trips. So whether the journey is long or short, fast or slow, wearing a seatbelt is a must. Some passengers might think the back seat is safer and skip the seatbelt, but in reality, rear passengers face just as much risk—especially in rear-end collisions or rollovers. For your own safety, both drivers and passengers should make it a habit to buckle up as soon as they get in the car.
Q
What is the function of ESC in a car?
ESC (Electronic Stability Control) is a crucial car safety tech that's all about keeping you in control when things get tricky—like during sudden swerves or on slippery roads. Here's how it works: sensors constantly track how the vehicle's moving. If it detects wheels slipping or the car veering off your intended path, the system jumps into action. It automatically applies the brakes to individual wheels and tweaks the engine's power output to help you regain control, cutting down on the risk of skidding or rolling over. This stuff really shines on rainy days or when taking sharp turns, making driving way safer. And ESC isn't alone—modern cars also come with other helpers like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and TCS (Traction Control System). These systems team up to boost stability and handling. When you're car shopping, it's a smart move to prioritize models with these safety features. Trust me, they make for a much more secure driving experience.
Q
Is ESC in every car?
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) isn't standard on all vehicles, but its adoption in new cars has increased significantly in recent years. Particularly, since 2014, regions like the EU and the US have mandated ESC for new vehicles, so most imported cars or global models come equipped with it. In the local market, mid-to-high-end models and new cars from major brands generally have ESC, but some entry-level models or older used cars might still lack this feature. When buying a car, you can check the "ESC OFF" indicator on the dashboard or the vehicle specification sheet to confirm. ESC uses sensors to detect wheel slip and automatically adjusts braking force or engine output, effectively preventing loss of control due to understeer or oversteer, which is especially noticeable on rainy, slippery roads. If your budget allows, it's recommended to prioritize models with ESC. Also, keep in mind that this system can't overcome physical limits, so safe driving habits remain fundamental. Other common active safety features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and TCS (Traction Control System) usually work in conjunction with ESC, and together the three enhance driving stability.
Q
Which cars have Electronic Stability Control?
Most new cars from major brands these days come with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a key part of modern automotive safety tech. You'll find it on Japanese models like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, and Mitsubishi, European rides such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, Korean cars from Hyundai and Kia, and even locally assembled domestic vehicles like the Proton X70 and X50, where it's standard. ESC uses sensors to monitor the car's movement. If it detects a skid or loss of control, it automatically adjusts engine power and braking to help the driver keep the vehicle stable—super useful on wet roads or tight turns. As safety regulations get stricter and consumers become more aware, ESC has moved from a high-end option to a common feature even on budget cars. When buying, just check the spec sheet or ask a sales rep. Some brands might call it VSC, DSC, or other names, but the basic function is the same. I’d recommend prioritizing cars with ESC. After all, you can never have too many safety features, and this tech has been proven over the years to cut down accident risks.
Q
Can ESC be turned off?
Most vehicles' Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can indeed be manually turned off via an in-car button, usually labeled "ESC OFF" near the instrument cluster or on the center console. A long press of 3-5 seconds typically disables the function, though note that operations may vary slightly across brands – some performance cars, for example, offer multi-stage disable options. When ESC is off, the system no longer actively intervenes in wheel slip or oversteer/understeer situations. This is intended for experienced drivers in specific scenarios, like getting unstuck from sand or practicing drifts on a track. However, it's strongly recommended to keep it enabled during regular driving for safety, as it effectively prevents skidding, especially in rainy weather or on sharp turns. It's worth noting that even when manually disabled, some models will force ESC to restart if extreme danger is detected – this is a safety redundancy feature. Additionally, ESC often works in conjunction with Traction Control Systems (TCS); disabling ESC in some vehicles will also affect TCS functionality, so it's advisable to check the owner's manual for specific details. While modifying the ECU to fully disable ESC is possible, this is not only illegal but extremely dangerous, potentially invalidating insurance coverage – it's by no means a wise choice.
Q
What happens when I press ESC?
When you hit the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) button, the system kicks in based on the vehicle's status. Its main job is to prevent skidding or loss of control when driving on slippery roads or taking sharp turns. It stabilizes the car by automatically adjusting engine power and applying brakes to individual wheels. If ESC is on (which it is by default in most vehicles), the indicator light on the dashboard will flash briefly and then go off, meaning the system is ready. If you hold the button to turn ESC off, the light stays on, and the system won't interfere—this is for pros in specific situations, like getting unstuck from sand or track driving. Important note: Keep ESC on for regular road driving, especially in the rain or on mountain roads; it really cuts down the risk of rollovers or fishtailing. Nowadays, ESC usually includes ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and TCS (Traction Control System). Some high-end models even refine the intervention logic, like pre-emptively adjusting power distribution when it detects a sudden sharp turn of the steering wheel. If the ESC warning light stays on for no reason, it's a good idea to check the wheel speed sensors or system wiring soon to avoid safety issues.
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Latest Q&A

Q
What is the EV sales in May 2025?
As of May 2025, specific monthly sales data for Malaysia's electric vehicle (EV) market has not yet been publicly disclosed, but the overall trend can be inferred from comprehensive industry reports and registration statistics. In the first four months of 2025, BYD led the market with cumulative registrations of 3,207 units, followed by Proton eMas 7 at 2,537 units, while Tesla ranked third with 735 units. Extrapolating from the first three quarters' data, BYD's annual sales are projected to surpass 8,417 units, with Proton reaching 6,212 units, reflecting dual-track growth in both pure electric models (e.g., BYD Sealion 7 and Atto 3) and localized offerings (e.g., Proton eMas 7). Market expansion is fueled by policy incentives (including import duty exemptions) and product diversification, though charging infrastructure (currently around 2,000 public chargers) and local production capacity remain critical bottlenecks. The government targets a 20% EV adoption rate by 2030, against the current 7% penetration, highlighting coexisting growth potential and challenges.
Q
Why is Ford stopping EV production?
The main reasons for Ford's suspension of electric vehicle (EV) production are the multiple challenges faced by its EV business, including substantial losses, weak market demand, and changes in the policy environment. From 2023 to 2025, Ford's EV business accumulated losses exceeding $9 billion, with a single-year loss of $5 billion in 2025 alone, compelling the company to write off 19.5 billion ringgit in related investments and discontinue several major EV projects (such as the second-generation F-150 Lightning and electric commercial vehicles). Concurrently, the U.S. elimination of EV tax credit policies and the relaxation of emission standards for fuel-powered vehicles have reduced the competitiveness of pure electric models. Furthermore, recurring quality issues with Ford's EVs (such as battery fires) and an inadequate after-sales service system (including repair difficulties for the Mustang Mach-E) have further eroded consumer confidence. To tackle the crisis, Ford is pivoting its strategic focus toward hybrid vehicles and compact EVs that better align with current market demand, while planning a transition via range-extender technology. This shift underscores the real-world challenge automakers face in balancing electrification investments with profitability, though Ford maintains its long-term electrification target, anticipating that new energy vehicles will account for 50% of its sales by 2030.
Q
Is EV sales declining?
Currently, the electric vehicle (EV) market in Malaysia has not shown a downward trend in sales; on the contrary, it has exhibited significant growth momentum. In November 2025, sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) reached 5,417 units, surging nearly 200% year-on-year, while cumulative sales in the first 11 months stood at 36,690 units, representing an 85% year-on-year increase. This growth is primarily driven by the impending expiration of import duty and consumption tax exemption policies at year-end, as well as the concentrated launch of new models such as the BYD Seal 6 and Xpeng G6. Hybrid vehicle sales also increased by 20.5% during the same period, demonstrating that new energy vehicles (NEVs) have become the market's core growth driver. Although total national new vehicle sales experienced a slight 1% year-on-year decline, EV penetration has risen from 5% in 2024 to 7%, with the government targeting 20% by 2030. It should be noted that current growth is partially attributable to consumption being front-loaded during the policy window period, while infrastructure development and purchasing preferences among middle- and low-income groups may impact long-term growth trajectories. Nevertheless, automakers' accelerated local production initiatives (such as Proton e.MAS7's sales of 7,740 units) reflect the industry's sustained commitment to electrification.
Q
What does EV stand for?
EV is the abbreviation of "Electric Vehicle" in English, which means pure electric vehicle in Chinese, specifically referring to vehicles that are fully powered by electricity and do not carry an internal combustion engine. The power system of such vehicles consists of three core components: lithium-ion battery packs, drive motors, and electronic control systems. They are recharged with electricity through charging piles, produce zero exhaust emissions during driving, and have low noise and vibration. Their energy conversion efficiency can reach more than 80%, and they have a regenerative braking function that can convert kinetic energy into electrical energy to recharge the battery during deceleration. Unlike hybrid models, EVs completely abandon the fuel system. Representative models include BYD Yuan EV and Geely Emgrand EV, and all models with the "EV" logo in their names are pure electric vehicles. At present, EV technology is relatively mature and is particularly suitable for short-distance urban commuting, but the coverage of charging infrastructure is still a key factor affecting user experience.
Q
What is a seat belt sensor?
The seat belt sensor is an electronic device installed in the vehicle's seat belt buckle or under the seat, used to detect whether the occupant has fastened the seat belt. Its core function is to generate electrical signals through mechanical triggering or pressure sensing and transmit them to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU). When the sensor detects an unfastened seat belt, the system activates a two-stage alert via the dashboard warning light and audible alarm, with some models capable of distinguishing between driver and front passenger seat status. From a technical perspective, the sensor employs wire displacement or frequency domain signal analysis (e.g., Fast Fourier Transform) to identify seat load characteristics and precisely determine occupant type (human/object/unoccupied). Certain premium models additionally incorporate a crash pre-tensioning feature that synchronizes with the airbag system to instantly tighten seat belts during collisions. Regulatory mandates require all passenger vehicles to be equipped with front seat belt reminder systems, and since 2020, child restraint systems (CRS) must comply with UN R44/R129 standards. These engineering solutions substantially mitigate collision injury risks and constitute critical elements of vehicular passive safety systems.
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