Drivers gobsmacked after discovering ‘hidden detail’ in iconic Toyota logo

Motorists often pride themselves on their car knowledge, yet it seems there’s always something new to learn.

While many fancy themselves as automotive connoisseurs, the truth is that we’re all still learning, with fresh tidbits of information surfacing now and then. Take, for instance, a “secret” that’s been associated with a well-known car brand for ages.

Toyota, a household name since its inception in 1937 by Kiichiro Toyoda, stands as the world’s preeminent carmaker, with projections suggesting it churns out approximately 10 million vehicles annually.

But recently, eagle-eyed observers have noticed a “hidden sign” within Toyota’s emblem that had previously gone unnoticed. This revelation was shared on TikTok by user therealoshow, sparking a debate among viewers.

He claimed: “Toyota’s logo is kind of a deep cut. It represents every letter in the company’s name.” While the notion is intriguing, not everyone is convinced.

One individual expressed their bewilderment, commenting: “The Toyota logo is a thread passed through the eye of a needle because they started out making industrial sewing machines.”

Someone else remarked: “I don’t know. To me, Toyota looked like a circle around the world.” Another chimed in with a playful response, adding: “Wait say Toyota again, but do it right.”

Meanwhile, another person commented: “You’re wrong about Toyota emblem. They were originally a sewing machine company, and that is a piece of thread going through the eye of a needle.”

Are you puzzled about the true meaning behind the symbol? Don’t worry, we dug up the answer for you. Here’s what we found out.

What does the Toyota logo signify?

According to Toyota Magazine, the logo indeed holds significant meaning. It made its debut in October 1989 to commemorate Toyota’s 50th anniversary.

It reportedly took around five years to develop the three-oval logo. The emblem was designed “to create a strong, stand out visual identity for the brand and announce the arrival of Toyota in many countries outside of Japan”.

The website states: “The three ovals in the Toyota logo are linked in a horizontally symmetrical layout – so it is recognisable both head-on and when seen in a rear-view mirror.

“The inner ovals symbolise the heart of the customer and the heart of the company, overlapping to represent a mutually beneficial relationship and trust between the two, as well as forming a ‘T’ shape for Toyota. The outer oval one signifies the world embracing Toyota.

“Each oval is drawn with different stroke thicknesses, pointing to Japanese calligraphy art and culture. The space in the background within the logo is meant to exhibit the ‘infinite values’, which Toyota stands for.

“These are: superb quality, value beyond expectation, the joy of driving, innovation and integrity in safety, the environment and social responsibility.”