A second Japanese giant fell to its knees after Kobe Steel admitted to fabricating data over various products, including materials for planes, cars and trains. General Motors broke its silence after Kobe declared further cases of data tampering may have occurred outside of Japan.
The steelmaker said instances of tampering and false data surrounding quality and safety of aluminum, iron powder and copper products were discovered. Each material finds its way into automobiles, with iron powder used specifically for gears. The fabricated data may go back 10 years, according to Reuters.
Kobe CEO Hiroya Kawasaki said he does not expect recalls due to the false data and certifications and added the company’s number one concern is to ensure it supports its clients in various safety checks. “The credibility of Kobe Steel has plunged to zero. We will make efforts to regain trust as soon as possible,” Kawasaki said.
GM will now check its Kobe-sourced parts for falsely certified parts and components. The U.S. automaker joins Toyota and 200 other companies that receive parts from the Japanese steelmaker.
“General Motors is aware of the reports of material deviation in Kobe Steel copper and aluminum products,” spokesman Nick Richards said. “We are investigating any potential impact and do not have any additional comments at this time”
Earlier this year, Japanese airbag maker Takata filed for bankruptcy after its faulty product was blamed for 17 deaths worldwide. Recalls to replace the faulty airbags are still ongoing among many automakers.
Comments
So much for Japanese superior quality. I’d say this tarnished their honor, but their version of honor is purely about reputation, not integrity.
Maybe gm should use American made steel
Maybe those Silverado pickup beds aren’t as strong as F150 Aluminum beds after all! Better stop running that commercial!!!!
Maybe going with the lowest bidder isn’t always the best option.