Daihatsu scandal offshoot; Toyota Hilux and Fortuner latest affected models for engine testing irregularities
Arvind · Jan 29, 2024 07:15 PM
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Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO) a subsidiary commissioned to develop diesel engines for automobiles has become the latest offshoot in a series of certification scandals that have affected the larger Toyota Motor Corporation in recent months.
A recent investigation revealed irregularities concerning power output certifications for 3 diesel engines found in 10 Toyota models, crucially the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner which are also sold in Malaysia.
According to Toyota, the investigation found irregularities occurred during the horsepower output testing for the certification of three diesel engine models (the 1GD, 2GD and F33A) for models that Toyota had commissioned to TICO.
During certification testing, the horsepower output performance of engines was measured using ECUs with software that differed from those used for mass production so results could make values appear smoother with less variation.
However, the company added, “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.”
The 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV turbodiesel engine is found in the Malaysian-market Toyota Hilux and Fortuner
So yes, Toyota is reporting the irregularities in the interest of transparency but affected vehicles that are already in use still conform to standards and will work without issues.
That said, based on the results of the investigation, TICO decided today to temporarily suspend new shipments of the affected engines. Toyota, likewise, has also decided to temporarily suspend new shipments of vehicles equipped with the affected engines.
The company also said, “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.”
Moving forward, TICO will provide detailed explanations to the authorities (in relevant markets) and promptly proceed with appropriate measures, including conducting testing in the presence of witnesses if appropriate. Toyota will continue to support TICO in the restructuring of its relevant business entities and will be involved in all company-wide activities to ensure that safety and quality standards are met.
Arvind can't remember a time when he didn't wheel around a HotWheels car. This love evolved into an interest in Tamiya and RC cars and finally the real deal 1:1 scale stuff. Passion finally lead to formal training in Mechanical Engineering. Instead of the bigger picture, he obsesses with the final drive ratio and spring rates of cars and spends the weekends wondering why a Perodua Myvi is so fast.
