Toyota Motor Corporation publicly confirmed on Monday that it had engaged in deceitful practices to secure vehicle certifications for seven of its models through fabricated safety tests. This revelation has dealt a severe blow to Japan’s automotive industry, adding Toyota to the expanding roster of Japanese auto companies implicated in misconduct, such as Honda, Mazda, Suzuki, and Yamaha.
Promptly responding to this alarming disclosure, the Transport Ministry of Japan announced on-site inspections at Toyota to determine the appropriate administrative actions to be taken in response to this scandal. Consequently, Toyota has been directed to cease shipments of three of its models – the Corolla Fielder, Corolla Axio, and Yaris Cross.
Despite this troubling revelation, Toyota hastened to assure the public that while there were indeed discrepancies in the pedestrian and occupant protection tests for the affected vehicles, there were no performance issues that would breach any laws or regulations, thus confirming that the affected vehicles can still be safely used.
During a press conference addressing this issue, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda candidly admitted that the company had indeed produced and sold cars without adhering to the correct certification process. He expressed profound remorse for the misconduct, acknowledging that it had undermined the very foundation of the certification system, something that automakers should never allow to transpire.
The aftermath of this scandal has been formidable, with approximately 1.7 million Toyota vehicles affected. Mazda also reported that 150,000 of its vehicles and Honda disclosed that 4.35 million of its vehicles had been impacted by similar misconduct. Similarly, Suzuki reported that 26,000 of its vehicles were impacted, but all of the affected models had already been discontinued.
In a statement, Toyota issued a heartfelt apology to its customers and stakeholders, expressing deep regret for any concern or inconvenience that may have been caused as a result of their actions. The company emphasized that it takes this issue very seriously, particularly in the wake of similar certification issues being uncovered at Hino Motors, Ltd. and Daihatsu Motor Co. alongside Toyota Industries.
The disclosure of Toyota’s malpractice in obtaining vehicle certifications is profoundly disheartening, especially given the company’s stature and reputation in the automotive industry. This revelation serves as a potent reminder that even the most esteemed and reputable organizations can succumb to unethical practices. It also underscores the critical importance of stringent governance and compliance measures within the automotive industry. As we await the results of the on-site inspections by the Transport Ministry, it is imperative that Toyota – and all other affected automakers – take decisive action to rectify this situation and regain the trust of their customers and stakeholders.