Japanese automakers post record April global output

Five of eight major Japanese automakers have logged their largest global output for April due to expanding demand in emerging countries, according to data compiled by the firms. The five automakers were Toyota Motor Corp., Honda Motor Co., Nissan Motor Co., Suzuki Motor Corp. and Daihatsu Motor Co. Mazda Motor Corp. and Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. also reported rises in global production, while Mitsubishi Motors Corp. suffered a drop. Domestic production increased at six firms, excluding Honda and Daihatsu. Nissan enjoyed a 42.3% growth in domestic output, the largest increase among the eight makers, on the back of strong demand for models for export to North America. All eight automakers except Suzuki attained positive growth in exports in April, with Toyota, Mitsubishi and Mazda hitting record highs for the month. Honda suffered a setback for the second straight month due to sluggish sales of mini-vehicles. (May 27, 2008)