Toyota Reveals Findings from Probe into Vehicle Certification Application Submissions
In an unexpected turn of events, Toyota Motor Corporation has decided to temporarily halt shipments and sales of three models (Corolla Fielder, Corolla Axio, and Yaris Cross) produced in Japan, effective June 3. This decision comes in the wake of an ongoing investigation into certification errors involving seven models produced since 2014.
The investigation, initiated by instructions from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on January 26, has revealed that some vehicles were mass-produced and sold without going through the correct certification processes. The models in question include those that have already ended production since 2014.
Chairman Akio Toyoda extended sincere apologies for this issue, following similar apologies from Hino, Daihatsu, and Toyota Industries Corporation. He emphasised that the company is working under the guidance of the Ministry to swiftly remedy the situation.
The certification system in Japan verifies whether a product meets established standards, mainly in the fields of safety and environment. The model certification system allows models to be certified without presenting the vehicle at each new examination, mainly used when mass-producing passenger cars of the same model. However, in this case, it appears that the testing methods for seven models deviated from national authority standards.
The company's statement also mentioned six cases where such deviations were found. The full text of Chairman Akio Toyoda's speech and Customer First Promotion Group Chief Officer Shinji Miyamoto's explanation of individual cases are provided in the article.
It is essential to note that the ongoing investigation does not seem to be related to the odometer issues and correction services that have been reported in the past. These services primarily address technical electronic faults causing inaccurate mileage displays, which are distinct from certification errors.
As the investigation continues, Toyota customers and the public can rest assured that the company is committed to ensuring vehicle safety for customers and complying with regulatory requirements. Further updates on the remediation efforts and the resumption of sales and shipments will be communicated as they become available.
Technology plays a pivotal role in the certification process of vehicles, ensuring they meet safety and environmental standards. The ongoing investigation into certification errors in certain Toyota models, including those halted from shipments and sales, has highlighted the need for adherence to national authority standards in this digital age.
