Toyota 'could delay launches'

Toyota is prepared to delay the launch of forthcoming models should it not be completely satisfied with quality and safety standards.

The forthcoming Auris, Auris HSD and Rav4 models, all due for launch in Europe in the first half of this year, will undergo stringent quality testing ahead as part of Toyota’s strict new quality control guidelines, introduced in the wake of its well publicised sticking accelerator pedal faults.

Tadashi Arashima, the chief executive of Toyota Motor Europe, told the Sunday Telegraph that the firm wanted to make sure there were absolutely no faults with any of the new models and Toyota was prepared to postpone the launches if necessary.

In particular, Arashima was keen to see British-built Auris HSD launched “properly” as it is such a key car for the firm.

“We are discussing that, if necessary, we will postpone the launch timing,” he said. “For us there is the hybrid in late May [Auris HSD], which is really key. We want to make sure that this car is properly launched without any major issues."

Although Toyota is prepared to postpone the launch of the new models if necessary, the firm confirmed that development is currently on track and there are currently no plans for to postpone any new launches.

As part of its new quality control systems, Toyota has appointed a chief quality officer for each region where it sells its cars. These officers will report directly to Toyota boss Akio Toyoda and the first meeting is planned for 30 March.

Other plans include the fitting of an aeroplane-style black box recorder to record any malfunctions and a brake override system, which will cut engine power when the accelerator and brake pedals are applied at the same time.

Twitter - follow autocar.co.ukSee all the latest Toyota reviews, news and video