Toyota is ‘exploring rockets'

Company Strategy and Vision - Toyota is exploring the development of rockets, as announced by Chairman Akio Toyoda at CES 2025, hinting at the potential for space mobility [1] - Toyoda emphasized the concept of "invention by multiplication," suggesting that collaboration can lead to limitless possibilities, including space exploration [2] - The company's focus on space exploration may indicate a strategic shift beyond traditional automotive boundaries, potentially positioning itself as a competitor to companies like Tesla and SpaceX [2][4] Industry Context and Precedents - The announcement of space exploration aligns with broader industry trends, where companies like Sony have previously surprised the market with unexpected ventures, such as electric vehicles [3] - Toyota's cautious approach to electric vehicle development has been criticized, but its focus on space exploration may reflect a long-term vision that diverges from traditional automotive electrification strategies [4] Technological Collaboration - Toyota showcased a rendering of a rocket designed by Interstellar Technologies, a Japanese private spaceflight company specializing in small launch vehicles for satellites [1] - This collaboration highlights Toyota's interest in leveraging external expertise to expand its technological capabilities beyond Earth-based mobility [1]