Toyota Predicts Better US Auto Sales

Even if the American auto sector reached the lowest possible level and domestic automakers fight for life, Toyota says the second quarter is expected to bring increased sales when compared to those recorded in the previous months. Toyota Motor Sales USA President Jim Lentz said the first signs of recovery are projected for 2010 but admitted that until now, April brought almost the same figures as March.

"We will start seeing a gradual rise in car sales," he commented on the company's financial results. "Recovery will be in 2010," he added. "We are not seeing an increase but we are also not seeing a drop-off."

One possible solution to help the auto sector and boost sales in the region would be the introduction of a scrapping bonus, similar to those offered in Germany and some other European countries. Governments on the Old Continent are offering cash incentives to those turning their old vehicles and buying new, less-polluting and more fuel-efficient cars.

"All this will change if we see some kind of fleet modernization," he said hinting that the United States government should consider such a programme. Furthermore, this could lead to industry sales of up to 1 million vehicles in 2010, as cash incentives have always met a strong popularity in most European markets.

Overall, Toyota says the company is heading towards the right direction and, despite so difficult financial times, the United States market could soon recover to the pre-crisis levels "We are really listening to our dealers, and thus far they are telling us that it's really not a discussion on the showroom floors," Lentz said.