Toyota Motor North America, Inc. said March 2 that former U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater will lead an independent North American quality advisory panel to advise the company's North American affiliates on quality and safety issues.
The panel will work closely with Toyota's North American leadership team, and will have direct access to Toyota Motor Corp. President Akio Toyoda.
This independent group of experts will also evaluate the electronic throttle control system (ECTS-i) installed in Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Its findings will be made public.
The panel will have access to the results of extensive testing previously conducted by Toyota as well as a comprehensive, independent study being undertaken by consulting firm Exponent, the company said. The panel will be able to commission any additional outside reviews it deems necessary and will have an unlimited budget to pursue its mandate.
Secretary Slater will be closely involved in the selection and approval of members of the panel.
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