Toyota City, Japan, Jan 29, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Today, Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO) reported to Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), which had commissioned TICO
to develop diesel engines for automobiles, that it received a report from the special investigation committee (chaired
by Mr. Hiroshi Inoue) that was commissioned to investigate potential irregularities of certification regulations related
to inappropriate domestic emissions certification of engines for forklifts and construction machinery.
The investigation found that irregularities occurred during the horsepower output testing for the certification of three
diesel engine models for automobiles that Toyota had commissioned to TICO. During certification testing, the horsepower
output performance of engines was measured using ECUs with software that differed from that used for mass production so
that results could measure to make values appear smoother with less variation. Ten vehicle models are using the affected
engines globally, including six in Japan.We have re-verified the mass-produced products manufactured at the plant and
confirmed that the affected engines and vehicles meet engine performance output standards. Therefore, there is no need
to stop using the affected engines or vehicles. However, we deeply apologize to our customers who have been supporting
affected vehicles and waiting for a long time, and also to all other stakeholders for the significant inconvenience and
concern that this has caused.
Based on the results of the investigation, TICO decided today to temporarily suspend shipments of the affected engines.
Toyota has also decided to temporarily suspend shipments of vehicles equipped with the affected engines. Going forward,
we will provide detailed explanations to the authorities and promptly proceed with appropriate measures, including
conducting testing in the presence of witnesses if appropriate.
Certification consists of having the national authorities inspect and confirm in advance that vehicles meet various
standards so that customers can drive their vehicles with peace of mind. We consider the appropriate process of
certification to be a major prerequisite for doing business as an automobile manufacturer. We recognize the gravity of
the fact that the repeated certification irregularities at TICO, following those at Daihatsu, have shaken the very
foundations of the company as an automobile manufacturer.
TICO has informed us that they will start by providing detailed explanations to authorities regarding these findings and
proceed with measures under their guidance in the hopes of regaining the trust of customers and other stakeholders as a
manufacturer worthy of certification.In addition, restructuring the relevant business will require a change in the
mindset of all individuals, from management to employees, as well as a drastic reform of corporate culture. Such tasks
cannot be accomplished overnight. Hence, as the party responsible for transferring the diesel engine business, Toyota
will continue to provide support toward the revitalization of TICO's engine business.
Furthermore, as the commissioner of these tests, we regret that we were not sufficiently attentive and aware of the fact
that the procedures were not carried out in accordance with laws and regulations. Going forward, we will be involved in
all company-wide activities to help rebuild TICO and review the situation to thoroughly ensure that safety and quality
are the top priorities.
For more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/40376368.html.