In an embarrassing lapse for one of the world’s most respected automakers, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda was forced to issue a public apology Monday after the company admitted to widespread falsification of certification data impacting multiple vehicle models.
Toyota has suspended production of three models – the Corolla Fielder, Corolla Axio, and Yaris Cross – while it internally investigates the extent of fraudulent testing practices that have called into question the integrity of the company.
“We sincerely apologize,” Toyoda told reporters, bowing deeply in a traditional Japanese show of contrition. The company admitted that their vehicle certifications involved using outdated data, improper crash test methodologies, and falsified engine performance metrics.
The revelation damages Toyota’s brand reputation built over decades on principles of excellence and rigorous quality control standards.
Toyoda admitted “We are not a perfect company” and vowed to rectify testing lapses potentially impacting safety.
Japanese regulators launched an investigation in January after irregularities first surfaced at other Toyota group companies like Hino Motors and Daihatsu. But the issues were far more widespread.
Toyota insists vehicles already on roads remain safe despite the falsified certification data used during development. But the scandal raises questions over what other testing shortcuts may have slipped through undetected.
The company pledged to allow external monitors to provide independent oversight as it implements sweeping reforms to testing protocols which clearly broke down on a corporate-wide scale.
“If we see anything wrong, we will take a step back and keep trying to correct it,” Toyoda stated.
Domestic rivals Mazda and Honda also admitted to similar certification lapses on Monday, suggesting cracks in Japanese automotive industry standards requiring automakers to undergo rigorous safety checks before selling new vehicles.
Despite vowing the latest issues don’t compromise on-road safety, the scandals has severely tarnished Japan’s automakers and their reputations for designing and building reliable transportation.