Akio Toyoda is first automotive CEO to join FIA Senate

Akio Toyoda is one of the coolest automotive executives to date. Apart from being the CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation, he is also a motorsports aficionado and a seasoned racing driver, participating in circuit racing and even rallying. Toyoda also tests most Lexus and Toyota vehicles, like the GR Yaris and the new RZ electric vehicle. Now there’s a new role Toyoda plays in, and it’s with the FIA.

The FIA recently announced the appointment of four new members into the FIA Senate as part of the federation’s restructuring under new president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. One of those new members is Akio Toyoda. With his appointment, Toyoda becomes the first-ever automotive CEO to join the FIA senate.

“The new Senate composition is opening the FIA ever more to the world. I am very proud that this essential governing body, which has a central role in the life of our Federation, counts members from all over the planet and that 25% of them are women, including new member Fatma Samoura, FIFA Secretary-General. The appointment of Mr. Toyoda, president of Toyota, is also a symbol of our will to work more closely with the Automotive industry,” said Sulayem.

Toyota has an important role in motorsports today. With Toyoda’s recent appointment into the FIA Senate, the company now plays an even bigger part.

Currently, Toyota is one of the three manufacturers working with the FIA with the World Rally Championship as part of the new hybrid era. The automaker also participates in the World Endurance Championship, racing in the new hypercar class. In Japan, they even have a hydrogen-powered Corolla race car to compete in Super Taikyu for zero-emissions racing.

We have yet to see the effects of Toyoda’s appointment with the FIA Senate, but one thing is for certain – expect Toyota to become even more involved in global motorsports.