Toyota Pauses Innova Crysta, Fortuner, Hilux Deliveries in India Due to Certification Issues

Key Highlights

• Toyota suspends deliveries of Innova Crysta, Fortuner, Hilux in India.
• Irregularities found in diesel engine horsepower certification testing.
• No impact on emissions or safety.
• Production and new orders continue.
• Global impact on ten models.
• Toyota emphasizes commitment to customer satisfaction and corporate reforms.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor, a prominent player in the Indian automotive market, has decided to suspend deliveries of its popular models—Innova Crysta, Fortuner, and Hilux. This temporary halt comes in light of irregularities discovered in the diesel engine horsepower certification testing, raising concerns about the accuracy of power and torque curves.

Irregularities Uncovered in Certification Testing:

The suspension of deliveries follows a report by Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO), which was commissioned by Toyota Motor Corporation to develop diesel engines for the affected models. TICO's special investigation committee identified irregularities in the horsepower output certification testing process, particularly related to the 'smoothing' of power and torque curves.

Global Impact and Sales in India:

These irregularities have global implications, affecting ten models worldwide, with six in Japan and three in India—Innova Crysta, Fortuner, and Hilux. Notably, these three models contribute significantly to Toyota Kirloskar's sales in India, accounting for almost a third of the total sales.

No Impact on Emissions or Safety:

A spokesperson from Toyota Kirloskar Motor clarified that the irregularities in power and torque curves did not lead to any over-stating or over-claims on critical values such as horsepower or torque. Importantly, the irregularities do not impact the emissions or safety of the affected vehicles, providing reassurance to concerned customers.

Continued Production and Taking Orders:

Despite the suspension of deliveries, Toyota will continue with production and will aslo accept new orders for the Innova Crysta, Fortuner, and Hilux. Transparent communication on power curves will be provided to customers awaiting deliveries, ensuring clarity regarding the situation.

Toyota's Apology and Commitment:

In a statement, Toyota Kirloskar Motor expressed sincere apologies for any inconvenience and concern caused by the irregularities. The company is actively working with relevant authorities to reconfirm certification data for the affected vehicles, emphasizing its commitment to customer satisfaction and adherence to certification standards.

Future Measures and Corporate Reform:

The company reassured customers that there is no need to stop using the affected engines or vehicles as they meet the performance output standards. Toyota Motor Corporation acknowledged the gravity of the situation, pledging to undertake appropriate measures, including testing in the presence of witnesses.

Also Read: Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: Waiting Period Rises to 12 Weeks Amid High Demand

Verdict

While the temporary suspension of deliveries may cause inconvenience, Toyota Kirloskar Motor is determined to address the irregularities transparently and ensure the continued satisfaction of its customers. The incident underscores the broader need for reforms in corporate culture and certification processes, reflecting Toyota's commitment to responsible business practices and customer trust.