Automotive firm Daihatsu is rumoured to be leaving the European market. A report on autoblog.com suggests that parent company Toyota is planning to remove the budget brand from European sales charts, probably around 2013. The timing is in line with new regulations that the EU will introduce at that time.
The Japanese company, best known for its budget offerings in the small hatchback class, will continue focusing on the Asian, African and South American markets. Daihatsu withdrew from the North American market in 1992 and from Australia in 2006.
A spokesperson from Daihatsu SA was quick to point out that this withdrawal would not effect South Africa in any way.