Toyota Motor is forecasting sales of 10.77m vehicles worldwide during 2020, nudging it closer to top automaker Volkswagen, a media report said.

Bloomberg said the automaker's outlook, which includes vehicles sold by subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor and truck maker Hino Motors, shows slight growth from an estimated 10.72m units this year. Volkswagen sold 10.8m units in 2018 and said in October it expected deliveries to be little changed this year.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Toyota is among automakers still delivering better than anticipated results, Bloomberg noted. Even so, it forecast it would sell 4% fewer vehicles in Japan next year, or 2.26m units.

As electric motors, autonomous capabilities and new mobility services disrupt the industry, Toyota has been forging alliances, adding Suzuki Motor, Mazda Motor and Subaru through partnerships and equity stakes.

Bloomberg noted alliances are becoming ever more critical in the global auto industry as manufacturers seek to pool resources and save costs. Ford has teamed up with Volkswagen, while Honda and General Motors are working together.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Auto Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now