Toyota resumes vehicle production at all Japan plants

Car production resumes in Japan for Toyota. However, because of shortages of parts, the factories will only run at half capacity until April 27th. Beginning May 10th through June 3rd, production will resume at about half of what was previously produced.

The world's No. 1 automaker said it was still struggling to secure around 150 types of auto parts. The magnitude-9.0 earthquake and ensuing tsunami destroyed parts factories in northeastern Japan, causing severe shortages of components.

The twin disasters forced Toyota to shut down all output in Japan except at three plants, which have been running at limited capacity since late March and early April to produce hot-selling Prius, Lexus and Corolla cars.

It remains unclear when Toyota will return to full production in Japan, Toyota spokeswoman Shiori Hashimoto said. Last month's disasters have caused Toyota a production loss of 260,000 cars, she said.

Read more: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42642080/ns/business-autos/