Japan’s leading automaker, Toyota Motor Corp., has reported additional instances of cheating on certification tests for new models, compounding issues acknowledged earlier this year. In a statement released Wednesday, Toyota disclosed that it failed to properly conduct certification on seven models, including the popular Camry sedan and RAV4 sport utility vehicle. The falsified tests pertained to critical safety areas such as pedestrian protection, side collisions, and steering impact.
Despite the severity of the misconduct, Toyota assured that no safety problems have been associated with the flawed testing. Consequently, owners of Toyota vehicles need not take any action. The automaker also noted that its overseas production remained unaffected.
This revelation follows a significant announcement in June, when Toyota’s chairman, Akio Toyoda, apologized for widespread testing irregularities involving six models, including the Crown and Lexus RX luxury models. The scandal led to the suspension of some model production in Japan. “It is with deep regret that we were not able to properly conduct our certification operations, and we apologize to our stakeholders for any concern or inconvenience this may have caused them,” Toyota stated.
The automaker attributed the latest oversight to a fundamental lack of understanding among workers and managers regarding the importance and procedures of certification documentation. An internal investigation, prompted by the earlier mishap, was underway to rectify these issues when the new discrepancies emerged.
The scope of fraudulent testing at Toyota involved using inadequate or outdated data in collision tests, incorrect airbag inflation testing, and misleading rear-seat damage assessments. Additionally, engine power tests were falsified. These deceptive practices were discovered not only in current models but also in discontinued ones.
Toyota is not alone in facing such scrutiny. Similar fraudulent practices were found at other major Japanese automakers, including Mazda Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co., as well as Toyota group companies Hino Motors and Daihatsu Motor Co.
In response to the latest findings, Toyota has reported the issues to the government and reiterated its commitment to correcting its corporate culture and work habits. Production of several small models for the Japanese market, including the Corolla Fielder, Corolla Axio, and Yaris Cross, has been halted since June 3. These models are expected to resume production in September, pending confirmation from the transport ministry that they meet the required standards.
As Toyota navigates this challenging period, the automaker’s efforts to rebuild trust and ensure compliance with safety standards will be closely monitored by both industry stakeholders and consumers worldwide.