Toyota has disclosed more cases of misconduct related to cheating on certification tests required by the Japanese government for new car models. The latest revelation involves seven models, such as the Camry sedan and RAV 4 SUV, where improper certification procedures were not followed, including tests for pedestrian protection and collisions. Despite these shortcomings, Toyota assures that there are no safety concerns for vehicle owners and no action is required. The irregularities have not impacted the company’s overseas production.
The chairman of Toyota, Akio Toyoda, issued an apology in June following the acknowledgment of testing irregularities involving six models, leading to the temporary halt of production for some models in Japan. In a statement, Toyota expressed regret for the lapses in its certification operations and inconvenience caused to stakeholders due to the deficiencies in understanding certification rules and lack of managerial involvement.
An internal investigation was initiated by Toyota to address the prior mishaps, but further oversights were uncovered, prompting the company to take corrective actions. The fraudulent testing practices included the use of outdated or inadequate data in collision tests, incorrect airbag inflation tests, improper assessment of rear-seat damage in crashes, and falsified engine power tests. Similar fraudulent activities were also identified at Mazda, Honda, Hino Motors, and Daihatsu Motor.
Toyota has reported the latest findings to the government and reiterated its commitment to rectify the corporate culture and work practices contributing to such testing irregularities. Production of certain small models for the Japanese market, including the Corolla Fielder, Corolla Axio, and Yaris Cross, has been on hold since June and is expected to resume in September once compliance with standards is confirmed by the transport ministry.
