(June 16, 2011) ERLANGER, Ky.  — North American vehicle production levels are expected to return to 100 percent in September, Toyota said today. Production is recovering earlier than originally anticipated following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

On average, current production has improved to more than 80 percent through August. Eight of the company's 12 North American-built models returned to 100 percent production on June 6.

Eight of the company's 12 North America-built models returned to full production capacity on June 6. Those vehicles are the Toyota Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, Sequoia, Sienna and Venza.

However, the Toyota RAV4, Tacoma and Tundra and the Lexus RX 350 are still being produced at reduced levels as the automaker grapples with the lingering impact of the March 11 quake and tsunami.

"After September we will focus on making-up lost production as much as possible," said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing, North America. 

"Our team members and suppliers here and in Japan have worked tirelessly to get us back to 100 percent, overcoming many challenges. The effort in Japan has been incredible, especially in the midst of such tragedy and devastation."

Bob Carter, group vice president and Toyota Division general manager, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., said, "The rapid production recovery proves once again that Toyota's manufacturing team members in North America and around the world are the best in the business."  Carter added, "Thanks to their efforts, our dealers have a healthy supply of cars and trucks available to sell, with more arriving every day, along with competitive lease and APR programs for our customers." 

Scoure: Toyota, Automotive News