It is no secret that by any measure, the quality, safety, and reliability of Toyota’s products have out-shined American automotive products for many years. Nevertheless, for reasons that are not too difficult to understand, the cracks in the armor of Toyota’s phenomenal quality have been pried open in a manner that has brought Toyota’s imperfections into the spotlight. Rather than comparing the quality and safety of Toyota products with those of US automakers, or seeking to minimize Toyota’s failures in any way, head-man Toyoda of Toyota takes absolute and unequivocal responsibility for the flaws in his products and the terrible consequences of those flaws.
Watch Toyoda’s apology before the United States Congress. Then watch the leaders of the U. S. automakers testify before that same body. Compare Toyoda’s words and demeanor with those of U.S. leaders, who utter not one word of personal regret or contrition for having driven their companies into collapse, wrecking havoc on the lives of countless workers and customers. Then decide for yourself who demonstrates greater strength in purpose, responsibility, and honor. Who would you trust?
PS – For those who have studied W. E. Deming, note Toyoda’s reference to workers and continuous improvement.
