Daihatsu has admitted to “cheating,” specifically in crash safety testing done for regulatory certification applications for four of its models.
Daihatsu compared with diffrent models
This comprises the new Toyota Vios (known as the Yaris Ativ in Thailand and other markets), the Toyota Agya, the 2023 Perodua Axia, and a vehicle that has yet to be announced.
Toyota’s wholly-owned subsidiary confirmed the problem in a statement, noting that about 88,000 impacted model units had already been sold in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Mexico. New shipments have now been halted. According to a statement issued by Daihatsu:
“We deeply apologize for betraying the trust of our customers and other stakeholders and for causing great inconvenience and concern.”
However, the parent company Toyota’s statement is even harsher. Toyota Chairman of the Board, Akio Toyoda, who recently stepped down as CEO, stated:
“Daihatsu’s wrongdoing is a matter that concerns safety, which is the most important aspect of vehicles. We consider this an absolutely unacceptable act that betrays the trust of our customers.
Since this problem occurred with a Toyota brand passenger car, we believe that the problem is not limited to Daihatsu.
We will begin by conducting a detailed investigation and thoroughly collecting facts to understand the situation, determine the true cause, and work diligently to prevent a recurrence. We will also inform the public in a timely manner regarding the facts we learn through our investigations.”
Daihatsu mentioned that “the inside lining of the front seat door was improperly modified, and that there was a violation of the side collision test procedures and methods stipulated by regulations.”
According to source, the door trim on the affected vehicles has been upgraded with a “notch” to lessen the likelihood of the door panel breaking with a sharp edge and inflicting injury when the side airbag deploys. The notch modification is not present in production vehicles.
Following the suspension of new shipments, Daihatsu and Toyota stated that they will re-test (the side collision tests) in the presence of inspection and certification authorities, and only if the side impact performance is confirmed to comply with regulations will the shipment be resumed.
To read our blog on “Toyota Pak tells 142% increase in profit despite poor sales,” click here
