The new Meister system was implemented along with the release of the new Century. Just 0.6% of all the people working at dealerships across Japan have been certified as such through a process that includes interviews and training. These Meisters attended a symposium held by Chairman Akio Toyoda, who spoke about how they can relate to the Century.

Chairman Toyoda began his talk with personal memories of the Century which has been by his side from birth. In truth, the Century was difficult to get close to because of a difficult childhood memory he had about the car with his father, Honorary Chairman Shoichiro Toyoda.

That memory meant that the Century was a car “he mustn’t get involved with” and “for some reason he can’t ride.” But what caused him to realize that “someone must be the heir to the Century?”

At the same time, Chairman Toyoda has had certain ideas about chauffeur-driven cars for over twenty years. Those ideas strongly influenced the shape of the New Century. We invite you to try and see that influence yourself.

During the symposium, Chairman Toyoda speaks to the Meisters about the words of then-Project General Manager Kenya Nakamura, one of the main developers of the first-generation Century: “Not the same.” The origin of the Meister system is not to build and sell the same way as others nor to build a business model based on selling a lot.

“I want you to be a Century maniac.”

Chairman Toyoda understands the Meisters know everything about the Century, and he wants them to keep that interest and curiosity so they can continue learning.

His message to the Meisters, who will begin to help write the story of the Century—as every car has its own story—is, “Take my place.”

This week’s program is a journey of Chairman Toyoda’s life seen through the Century. We hope you enjoy the ride.