Toyota retained its number one slot in global car sales in 2013 after it sold 9.98 million cars worldwide, 270,000 more than its closest rival — US General Motors.

Sales were up two percent from the year before.

Toyota also announced plans to sell 10.32 million vehicles in 2014.

This result confirms recovery of Toyota from the damage caused in 2011 by Japanese tsunami which disrupted its supply lines. Toyota has also suffered some setbacks after a series of recalls and safety issues.

Since 2009, more than 14 million vehicles have been recalled in the US following several faults including sticky pedals and brake problems.

A Birmingham-based industry specialist said that the firm has weathered the storm over recalls and the earthquake and tsunami disruptions well.

It has gone back to its core strategy of focusing on quality.

The firm has also made the right bets on technology, in terms of developing hybrid technologies.

GM sold 9.71 million vehicles last year, while Germany’s Volkswagen came in third with sales of 9.5 million.

Toyota’s sales growth has been strong internationally, especially its Lexus and Prius hybrid models, although it saw sales in its domestic market fall.

Its sales target of 10.32 million for 2014 is regarded as significant as no carmaker has topped sales of 10 million.

GM and VW, however, lead over Toyota in China, but in struggling Europe, Toyota’s sales are unchanged while GM’s are down by over four percent as the latter continues to struggle with its unprofitable European operation.

While the economic situation in Europe is improving this year, the battle for more sales in Europe may eventually decide the sales’ leader of 2014.

The good results achieved last year by the three top players, highlights the return of health to the world car industry.