Japanese Automaker Reports First Annual Loss Since 1957

A Japanese automaker posted its first annual loss since 1957 after taking a multibillion-dollar charge tied to scaling back its electric-vehicle plans. The company reported the loss on Thursday as part of its latest financial results. The red ink marks the first time the automaker has reported an annual loss in nearly seven decades.

The charge stems from a decision to reduce investment in battery-electric models and related production capacity. The automaker had earlier set ambitious targets for electric-vehicle sales and battery development. It has now slowed those efforts amid softening global demand for battery-electric cars and rising competition.

The company cited slower-than-expected adoption rates in several key markets as a factor in the revised strategy.

The multibillion-dollar hit contributed directly to the full-year net loss. The company did not specify the exact size of the charge in its initial release. Executives have indicated that further details on restructuring costs and revised forecasts will be provided in coming weeks.

The automaker's decision reflects broader challenges facing several global manufacturers as they adjust electric-vehicle rollout plans. Sales of battery-electric vehicles have grown more slowly than many forecasts predicted just two years ago. Hybrid models have gained share in multiple regions as consumers weigh factors including price, charging infrastructure and driving range.

Outlook The company said it will continue to offer a mix of powertrains while reassessing the pace of its full-electric transition. It plans to maintain investment in hybrid technology and certain battery-electric platforms that have shown stronger demand.