A safety test scandal hit Japanese automakers Toyota Motor, Mazda, Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha, with irregularities found in certification applications for certain models. The transport ministry in Japan ordered Toyota, Mazda, and Yamaha to suspend shipments, and Honda and Suzuki were also implicated. The scandal was uncovered after a previous safety test scandal at Toyota’s Daihatsu unit. Amid these revelations, attention is turning to Toyota’s upcoming annual general meeting where shareholders are being advised to vote against re-electing the chairman due to the spate of certification irregularities within the Toyota Group. Toyota acknowledges the wrongdoing and apologizes to customers and stakeholders while temporarily halting shipments and sales of certain models.
Toyota admitted to misconduct in six different safety tests conducted between 2014, 2015, and 2020, affecting models like the Corolla Fielder, Corolla Axio, and Yaris Cross, as well as older versions of popular models under the Lexus brand. Examples of the irregularities included measuring collision damage on one side of the hood instead of both sides. Toyota is also conducting an investigation into vehicle fuel efficiency and emissions-related issues, aiming to complete the inquiry by the end of June. Despite the wrongdoing, Toyota stated that there were no performance issues violating regulations and that customers can continue using their cars as usual. The revelation of these scandals had an impact on Toyota’s stock price, which closed down 1.8% despite a gain in the broader Topix index.
Mazda also found itself embroiled in the safety test scandal, suspending shipments of its Roadster RF sports car and Mazda2 hatchback after discovering that workers had manipulated engine control software test results. In addition, crash tests for the Atenza and Axela models were tampered with using a timer to trigger airbags during frontal collision tests instead of relying on the onboard sensor, leading to a 3.3% drop in Mazda shares. Yamaha also halted shipments of a sports motorcycle in response to the irregularities in certification applications. Honda revealed wrongdoing in noise and output tests spanning over eight years until October 2017 on some models no longer in production. The scandal has put a dent in Japanese automakers’ reputation for quality and reliability.
The Japanese government, usually praised for corporate reforms, expressed regret over the misconduct by automakers. The scandals have highlighted the need for stricter oversight and compliance within the industry to maintain consumer trust and confidence. The repercussions of these irregularities on the affected automakers’ sales and reputation remain to be seen as investigations continue and corrective measures are implemented. The safety test scandal serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, integrity, and adherence to regulations in the automotive sector to ensure the safety and reliability of vehicles for consumers worldwide. The fallout from these revelations underscores the need for continuous monitoring and accountability in the industry to prevent similar incidents in the future.
