Overview

• Toyota confirmed on July 12 that it will continue lending the specially modified Century convertible for sumo champion victory parades starting with the Nagoya tournament.
• The open-top Century was developed in January 2024 at Hakuho’s proposal and features reinforced suspension to accommodate the weight of champion wrestlers.
• The decision reverses hints by President Akio Toyoda at the June shareholder meeting that the company might suspend the lending program after Hakuho’s departure from the Sumo Association.
• Toyota retains ownership of the parade vehicle and remains responsible for its engineering upkeep and custom modifications.
• The move underscores Toyota's support for sumo traditions while navigating stakeholder concerns following a prominent figure’s retirement.