An automobile sold internationally by Toyota since 1982
Toyota Motor Corp has reported a strong first-quarter profit and higher sales, aided by a weaker yen and robust hybrid demand. The company warns of potential headwinds from Middle East tensions and a Kumamoto earthquake, but maintains its full-year profit forecast and plans to boost hybrid production through 2030.
A wave of safety recalls has affected vehicles, ladders, refrigerators and trucks, impacting hundreds of thousands of consumers. Toyota recalls 655,000 vehicles for a faulty 7-inch display; Ram 1500 seat belt anchors are under scrutiny; attic ladders face bolt-break risks; Galanz refrigerators pose fire hazards. Notifications begin this week with free repairs and updates.
Chinese regulators have announced recalls affecting more than 4 million vehicles after finding hidden, electronically operated door handles can become difficult to open after severe collisions. Tesla accounts for about 2.98 million cars; Xiaomi, Leapmotor, Xpeng and Geely have also issued recalls. Automakers will add warning labels and push software updates to improve emergency egress and driver monitoring.
Kia’s EV4 GT, based on the same 400-volt platform as other EV4s, delivers a refined, performance-oriented ride with four-wheel-drive and advanced dynamics. On the famed roads behind Nice and Monaco, it challenges the typical image of electric hot hatches, combining practical family utility with engaging driving dynamics.