Toyota Launches Production of New Corolla Sedan in Turkey

VIENNA – Toyota Motor Mfg. Turkey begins volume output of the new-generation Toyota Corolla sedan at its plant in Adapazari, Turkey.

The styling of the European Corolla is different from the U.S. version unveiled in June, with headlamps and front fascia among features that separate the two cars.

Export destinations for the TMMT-produced Corolla include Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. The plant, which also produces the Verso, now ships to 52 countries.

The auto maker invested about €150 million ($195 million) to launch the new Corolla, creating roughly 900 jobs for temporary employees. TMMT employs some 3,300 people, including the newly hired temporary workers.

The plant’s capacity is about 150,000 cars per year.

TMMT, a joint venture owned 90% by Toyota Motor Europe and 10% by Mitsui, launched production in 1994.

TMMT is competing with Toyota’s plant in France to be the production home of a new cross/utility vehicle. The sourcing decision may be announced this month.

In related news, Japanese supplier Toyota Boshoku inaugurates its new seat-cover plant TB Sewtech TurkeyinDüzce.

Toyota Boshoku invested about €285,000 ($371,000) in the operation, which employs 180 workers and supplies seat covers to a Toyota Boshoku plant in Arifiye, Turkey,maker of Corolla seats.