Toyota chief apologises to drivers

25 February 2010

Toyota's chief executive Akio Toyoda has apologised to the US Congress and to American drivers of Toyota cars for safety problems that resulted in deaths and worldwide recalls of millions of the company's vehicles.

Speaking before the Congressional hearing on safety, he said: "I'm deeply sorry for any accident that Toyota drivers have experienced."

Mr Toyoda, grandson of the Japanese car firm's founder, took an oath to tell the truth before reading out his opening statement in English.

He was thanked for agreeing to testify before the committee by its chairman, Edolphus Towns, who said: "We're very impressed with that. It shows your commitment to safety as well."

The world's largest car manufacturer has recently been plagued by a string of issues relating to faulty accelerator pedals as well as brakes in its hybrid cars.

Mr Toyoda assured that his company was getting ready to overhaul its system for handling consumer complaints. Among the new measures will be first hand inspection by Toyota executives of cars being examined for potential problems.

He also promised that any decision on recalls will take into account feedback from drivers and outside safety experts.

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