Results of Model Certification Application Investigation Disclosure: Chairman Toyoda's take on the Press Conference
In a bid to maintain transparency and address ongoing concerns, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) held a press conference on June 3, with Chairman Akio Toyoda and Shinji Miyamoto, Chief Officer of the Customer First Promotion Group, taking centre stage. The conference was called to explain in detail the investigation TMC has initiated, following instructions from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
The topic of the "TPS Jishuken (Joint Kaizen Activities)" was a key point of discussion during the press conference. Notably, Chairman Toyoda expressed his concern about "not fanning the flames of anxiety unnecessarily among customers" in the five days leading up to the event.
During the conference, Toyota's leader made several thought-provoking statements. He acknowledged the impossibility of eliminating wrongdoing, referencing the famous quote, "Et tu, Brutus?," and expressing personal gratitude for the issues that have emerged from Toyota, stating, "In a way, I am personally grateful that these issues have emerged from Toyota."
The investigation into model certification tests has been ongoing, with Chairman Toyoda questioning the certification process, seeking to understand the information used, workflow, and standards involved. It was revealed that he had been attending the TPS Jishuken since January 30, and the investigation results were presented to him on May 29.
Details of the "TPS Jishuken" activities will soon be released on Toyota Times News. In a subsequent Voice-Only Toyota Times News recording on June 5, Chairman Akio Toyoda and Yuta Tomikawa discussed the results of the investigation into model certification testing.
It is worth noting that TMC has been grappling with certification issues and long delivery times, concerns that have been a focus of the company. Chairman Toyoda has emphasised the importance of cultural reforms within the company, including personally visiting the genba (shop floor) to better understand and address these issues.
While specific insights into Chairman Toyoda's thoughts and feelings during the June 3 press conference regarding TMC's investigation are not extensively documented, his leadership style and commitment to addressing these challenges are highlighted through his active involvement in reform efforts. For the most accurate information, it would be best to review the full transcript of the press conference or official statements from Toyota Motor Corporation.
In light of the ongoing investigation, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) delved into discussions about industry standards and practices, with a particular focus on finance-related aspects during the June 3 press conference. Chairman Akio Toyoda, expressing gratitude for the issues that have surfaced, acknowledged the need to maintain trust and financial transparency within the company.
