Toyota’s president said he believes that North American sales could recover in March after a sharp decline last month when the automaker suspended sales of eight recalled models.

“I think it’s possible for sales to recover,” Akio Toyoda said. ”We are taking steps simultaneously for repairs and a sales recovery. The local staff are working hard at this.”

Toyota’s sales in the U.S. market, its biggest, fell 9 percent last month while rivals including FoMoCo and General Motors gained market share.

Toyota’s January sales were down 16 percent.

Toyota has recalled more than 8.5 million Toyota vehicles globally.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)