Toyota, has recently announced that production of the subcompact TOYOTA YARIS will be moved to France. The assembly plant which is located in northern France will produce 25,000 Yaris units/year and export them to the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.

The decision to move production of the Yaris was based on the catastrophic aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami that wreaked havoc in Japan in 2011. The company, as well as all Japanese corporations saw income and revenue challenges following the disasters. Additionally, the strength in the global market of the Japanese currency known as the Yen makes it difficult for corporations to thrive.

The French facilities at which the Toyota Yaris will be produced, have been turning out Yaris hatchbacks for the European market since 2001. Japanese production of the Yaris will cease in May 2013, and will mark the first time in history that Toyota has imported a model to the United States from Europe.

An investment of eight-million euros will finance the new export process, and cater the European design of the Yaris to North-American preferences; specifically, the inclusion of a 1.5-liter gas-powered engine, revamped rear bumper design and auto transmission.

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