Toyota’s investigation into testing methods and certification processes has uncovered wrongdoing in relation to seven different models. This revelation comes after similar certification issues were discovered at Toyota Group companies, prompting the automaker to conduct an internal investigation.
Toyota Chairman, Akio Toyoda, issued a heartfelt apology for the widespread cheating on certification tests. As a result of the investigation, Toyota has halted shipments and suspended production of three models that were still in production at the time: the Corolla Fielder, Axio, and Yaris Cross. It is important to note that the affected vehicles were only sold in Japan.
The remaining four models found to have errors in crash test methods include the Crown, Isis, Sienta, and RX. However, it is worth mentioning that these models are no longer being sold. Despite the wrongdoing, Toyota emphasizes that there is no reason to stop using the affected vehicles as there are no performance issues that contravene laws and regulations.
In response to the investigation, Toyota published a statement on its global media site expressing sincere apologies to its customers and stakeholders. The company recognizes the concern and inconvenience caused and takes full responsibility for the discovered problems, following the certification issues at Hino Motors, Daihatsu Motor Co., and Toyota Industries Corporation.
The faulty testing at Japan’s leading automaker involved the use of inadequate or outdated data in collision tests, incorrect testing of airbag inflation and rear-seat damage in crashes, and falsified engine power tests. Akio Toyoda expressed deep remorse for these actions during a news conference in Tokyo.
In a surprising turn of events, Mazda Motor Corp., a Japanese rival of Toyota, also reported irregular certification testing and suspended production of two models, the Roadster and Mazda 2. Mazda admitted to using incorrect engine control software in their tests. Additionally, they acknowledged violations on crash tests for three discontinued models. However, Mazda assured consumers that these violations do not compromise the safety of the vehicles.
Honda Motor Co., based in Tokyo, joined the list of automakers apologizing for improper tests. They admitted to conducting tests on noise levels and torque that did not meet the required standards for a range of models, including the Accord, Odyssey, and Fit. It is important to note that the safety of these vehicles is not affected.
Akio Toyoda reflected on the situation, suggesting that Toyota may have been too eager to complete the tests and rushed the process due to the increasing variety of models. He also mentioned that certification rules may be overly stringent and vary globally. However, Toyoda made it clear that he did not condone the violations and emphasized Toyota’s commitment to addressing any issues and continuously improving.
Toyota is a global automotive giant that sells over 10 million vehicles worldwide. Despite this incident, Toyoda reiterated that Toyota is not a perfect company, but they will always strive to correct any mistakes and uphold their commitment to excellence.
In conclusion, Toyota’s investigation into testing methods and certification processes has uncovered wrongdoing in several models. The company has taken immediate action by halting production and shipments of the affected vehicles. Toyota’s Chairman has sincerely apologized for the misconduct and emphasized the company’s commitment to rectifying the situation and improving their processes. The incident also prompted other Japanese automakers, such as Mazda and Honda, to acknowledge their own irregularities in testing. While these incidents are certainly concerning, it is crucial to note that the safety of the affected vehicles is not compromised. Ultimately, these events serve as a reminder that even industry leaders must continually strive for excellence and transparent practices.
