Global Finances Blamed by Suzuki for Testing Difficulties

In a shocking revelation on Tuesday, May 31, Japanese automaker Suzuki admitted to using unapproved testing methods for fuel-economy and emissions testing, affecting approximately 2 million cars sold in Japan. This announcement comes after the company scaled back resources for testing due to the collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008 and the subsequent global financial crisis.

The testing method issue at Suzuki is linked to problems that occurred in 2008, a time when several major automakers were grappling with similar challenges. The revelation follows Mitsubishi Motors' shocking confession of cheating on fuel-efficiency tests for decades, which prompted Japan's transport ministry to order all domestic automakers to investigate their compliance with government testing methods.

Suzuki's testing ground, located in Japan, has faced challenges due to windy conditions, forcing some tests to be conducted indoors, contrary to government requirements. The company maintains that it had "no intention" of providing overstated results to potential customers.

Out of the 26 vehicle models involved, half were manufactured for other automakers. In response to the revelations, Suzuki and eight other automakers were asked by the Japanese transportation authority to review their compliance with standard testing methods for fuel consumption and emissions.

The testing method issue at Suzuki is not the only controversy the company has faced recently. Earlier this month, the company admitted to using a testing method not approved by local regulators, adding to concerns about the accuracy of its data.

Suzuki has also faced criticism for failing to invest in necessary infrastructure for testing and for not making sufficient efforts to improve testing technology. The company has repeatedly claimed that it had not meant to deceive drivers.

The testing method issue at Suzuki is reminiscent of scandals faced by other automakers, such as Germany's Volkswagen, which is still grappling with a worldwide emissions cheating scandal. Tokyo-based auto parts giant Takata has also faced lawsuits and regulatory probes over claims it hid deadly airbag flaws linked to at least 13 deaths and numerous injuries globally.

As the investigation continues, Suzuki and the other affected automakers will need to address these issues and work towards regaining the trust of their customers and regulators.