Toyota's U.S. business has been a lifetime passion for Toshiaki Taguchi from humble beginnings 50 years ago, when barely 100 Toyota cars were being sold a month, to the world's No. 1 automaker today.
At the automaker's Tokyo office last year, Taguchi, 69, the former head of Toyota's North American operations, watched with trepidation the live broadcast of President Akio Toyoda's testimony before Congress, as he fielded allegations of coverups and dallying in carrying out massive recalls.
Only in the last few weeks has Taguchi breathed easier. He is even feeling a bit vindicated.