PUTRAJAYA – All Perodua and Toyota vehicle models are in compliance with the United Nations’ (UN) safety standards, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke after news of Daihatsu’s safety issues in Japan.
Loke added that this was based on data and test results following the Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) review and examinations.
The decision by the ministry came after it was revealed that the Daihatsu Motor Corporation (DMC) in Japan did not comply with vehicle safety testing procedures under the UN’s terms.
“The re-test sessions on the vehicles were fully conducted in March by Technical Services who are competent and recognised by the World Forum Harmonisation of Vehicle Regulation (WP29), through UN’s Type Approval framework,” he told a press conference at his ministry, here today.
The vehicles that went under re-testing include Perodua Aruz, Ativa, Bezza, Myvi, second generation Alza, as well as the first and second generations of Axia.
Meanwhile, vehicles under Toyota that were re-tested were the Rush, Vios, and Veloz models.
This matter, Loke said, involves an estimated 1.7 million vehicles under both manufacturers in the local market.
He added that JPJ would continue to monitor the carmakers to ensure they carry out the necessary improvement measures, which includes updating internal testing reporting procedures and implementing periodic manufacturing compliance audits.
Perodua has been partnering with DMC, which holds a 25% stake in the company, to use the Japanese carmaker’s designs and main components for the engines and transmissions. Perodua is also partly owned by UMW Toyota Sdn Bhd.
On April 28, 2023, DMC said authorities cited procedural irregularities on its vehicles following safety tests in Japan.
It was reported that DMC falsified crash test results for four models.
The firm established a third-party investigative committee of lawyers and technical personnel, which reported in December that DMC had manipulated safety tests since at least 1989.
At the same time, Loke said 575 units of Chery Omoda 5 models have been recalled as of May 27, due to an axle defect.
He added that Chery is contacting 25 remaining owners of the vehicle, and inspection procedures are set to complete by the end of June. – May 28, 2024