Toyota has pledged to enhance its vehicle certification process to prevent any repeat of the scandal involving improper tests. The Japanese automaker has specified various measures it will implement, such as increased managerial oversight, more personnel dedicated to certification tasks, and clearly defined responsibilities for key roles like the chief engineer. This commitment comes after the company faced criticism from the Japanese government following revelations of widespread fraudulent testing, including the use of inadequate data in crash tests and other irregularities.
Two months ago, Toyota admitted to engaging in fraudulent practices that encompassed various testing procedures, such as airbag inflation and engine power checks. The chairman of Toyota, Akio Toyoda, who is the grandson of the company’s founder, issued an apology in response to the misconduct. Although the safety of vehicles currently on the road, like the Corolla and Lexus models, remains unaffected, Toyota has suspended production of certain vehicles in the wake of the scandal.
The scandal has tarnished Toyota’s reputation, given its emphasis on empowering employees to uphold quality standards. Reports from Japanese media suggest that the incident could lead to a reduction of approximately 500,000 vehicles in Toyota’s annual global output, which typically stands at 11 million vehicles. Additional instances of cheating were discovered following the initial disclosure, ranging from pedestrian protection to side collisions and steering impact certifications.
In a statement, Toyota acknowledged the need for fundamental improvements in its certification operations, particularly regarding data management systems and regulatory compliance. While a government investigation in Japan commenced in January, the issue has not impacted Toyota’s overseas production. Similar fraudulent testing practices were also identified at other Japanese automakers like Mazda, Honda, Hino Motors, and Daihatsu Motor Co.
