"Daihatsu Ceases Japan Production Amid 30-Year Safety Test Forgery Scandal"
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota and one of Japan's oldest combustion engine manufacturers, has halted production and suspended vehicle imports and exports after admitting to decades of safety test irregularities. An independent investigation revealed widespread and systemic issues, including tampering with safety tests and fabricating data. The scandal has significant implications for the auto industry, affecting thousands of workers and part makers, and dealing a blow to local economies. Daihatsu's misconduct dates back to 1989, and the company is now focused on making reforms to prevent future occurrences and to regain stakeholder trust. Toyota North America has not commented on the issue, and it is unclear when Daihatsu will resume production.