The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) announced Thursday the election of Jim Press, president of Toyota Motor North America, Inc., as its chairman of the board for a two-year term.
Press, who served as vice chairman of AIAM in 2006, will replace outgoing Chairman James Morton, vice chairman of Nissan North America, Inc.
"International automakers have made an important contribution to the U.S. economy, providing jobs and investment in all fifty states," said Press. "It is important for us to participate fully in solving the key policy challenges facing our industry. AIAM allows us to showcase the substantial contributions of the international companies to the overall health of the U.S. economy."
In January 2007, Press received the 2007 Automotive Industry Executive of the Year award.
The AIAM represents 14 international motor vehicle manufacturers in the U.S. who account for 40 percent of all passenger cars and light trucks sold annually in the U.S. AIAM member companies have invested over $33 billion in new factories and created more than 95,000 new jobs over the past two decades.