ERLANGER, Ky. — Toyota announced North American vehicle production levels are expected to return to full capacity in September, and that production is recovering faster than originally anticipated following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan.

“After September we will focus on making up lost production as much as possible,” said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor. “Our team members and suppliers here and in Japan have worked tirelessly to get us back to 100 percent, overcoming many challenges. The effort in Japan has been incredible, especially in the midst of such tragedy and devastation.”

On average, current production has improved to more than 80 percent through August. Eight of the Toyota’s 12 North American-built models returned to 100 percent production on June 6.

“The rapid production recovery proves once again that Toyota's manufacturing team members in North America and around the world are the best in the business,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and Toyota Division general manager, Toyota Motor Sales USA. "Thanks to their efforts, our dealers have a healthy supply of cars and trucks available to sell, with more arriving every day, along with competitive lease and APR programs for our customers."