Japan’s Ministry of Transport has accused Toyota of manipulating data in the certification process for three car models: the Fielder, Axio, and Yaris Cross. Toyota’s chairman, Akio Toyoda, admitted the vehicles were not properly certified before their sale and issued a public apology. As a result, Toyota has halted shipments of these models due to safety concerns.
The Ministry also identified similar issues with Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha Motor, ordering them to suspend shipments of the affected vehicles. Toyota revealed that the misconduct occurred during six tests in 2014, 2015, and 2020, including improper collision damage measurements. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi called the actions “regrettable” as the Ministry plans further inspections at the company’s headquarters.
