The company strengthens its focus on software and AI development to support Toyota’s electrified mobility goals
PLANO, Texas (August 2, 2023) – Toyota Connected North America (TCNA) has announced changes to its executive leadership team in order to solidify its position as a hub for data and software innovation within Toyota. TCNA is renowned for its development and operation of Toyota Motor North America’s (TMNA) in-house telematics service provider, collaborating with TMNA and other Toyota companies worldwide to deliver data-driven services that enhance the driving experience for millions of customers of Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
As Toyota continues to transform its vehicles to be more connected and electrified, TCNA aims to offer services that align with Toyota’s global objective of becoming the preferred choice for consumers in the electrified mobility sector.
The following changes are effective immediately:
Christopher Yang has been promoted to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TCNA. He will report to Keiji Yamamoto, the President of Toyota Connected Corporation. Yang previously served as TCNA’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). In addition to his new role, Yang will continue in his current responsibilities as the Group Vice President of Business Development and Deputy General Counsel of Toyota Legal One at TMNA.
James George has been appointed as the new Senior Vice President and COO of TCNA, taking over Yang’s previous position. George will also join TCNA’s board of directors and will report to Christopher Yang. He will continue his existing responsibilities as the General Manager of EV Charging Solutions within the Business Development division at TMNA.
Kohta Arai, who currently leads global operations at TCNA, has been appointed as the Chief Liaison Officer of TCNA. Arai will report to Chris Yang and will be responsible for fostering collaboration between TCNA and other Toyota entities worldwide. Arai will continue in his role as the Head of Global Operations in Business Development at TMNA.
Nilay Davé will retain his position as General Counsel and will continue to oversee the legal teams at TCNA. Davé has also been appointed as the Chief Compliance Officer. In addition, he will continue his role as the leader of TMNA Legal’s technology transaction team.
The former President and CEO of TCNA, Steve Basra, left the company on June 30th, 2023.