Toyota is making changes to its top staff, with more North Americans rising in the ranks.
"For the first time they are elevating some Americans to some very key positions," says Daniel Howes, who recently wrote an article about the changes for the Detroit News.
Howes says these moves are significant, and many companies are also becoming more international in their leadership.
"I think what's happening here is a recognition that if you're going to compete globally you need people who have truly global experience and different perspectives," Howes says.
Women have also been gaining higher level positions. Howes says these changes reflect the current market, and show a recognition that it's not only American men buying cars and trucks.