Supply Chain Research

Toyota will decide where to build its $1.6 billion car plant in the U.S. in early 2018. The factory will produce the Corolla compact, and reduce its reliance on a facility in Canada. The move is surprising given Toyota management expect total U.S. sales to drop below 17 million units in 2018 vs. 17.4 million units in the 12 months to November 30. Sales in the past 12 months have fallen by 1%, led by a 13% slide in sales of imported autos in favor of imported trucks which rose 13%. Manufacturers generally appear to be preparing for a downturn, with imports of trucks being unchanged on a y...