Monday, Toyota received a Grand Jury subpoena to release documents related to the sudden acceleration of the gas pedal and braking system not working in the Toyota Prius. Toyota also received a subpoena for similar documents from the Securities and Exchange Commission, according to a CNN report Monday. The Grand Jury subpoena raises the possibility of a criminal investigation, according to ABC News.
A few weeks ago the 2010 Toyota Prius was named in a recall that involved a problem with sudden acceleration and braking problems. Toyota has recalled 8.1 million vehicles over the past four months for similar problems with various models.
Last week, the federal government opened an investigation to determine how long Toyota has known about the safety issues with its cars. The investigation has uncovered what appears to be presentation documents from July of 2009 in which Toyota boasts about saving $100 million because they were able to negotiate a limited equipment recall for the Toyota Camry and Lexus ES vehicles instead of a more serious and costly problem with the cars. The point was listed under a section called “Wins”. To see the document and read a story about the investigation, click here.
The problems with Toyota and the recalls issued over the past few months creates an opportunity for other dealerships. "Every dog has its day," said Jerry Seiner who owns several General Motors dealerships in Salt Lake City. "Maybe they will take a second look at us instead of Toyota when Toyota stumbles it is our opportunity," the Salt Lake Tribune reported. Toyota sales were down 47% from December to January. To read more about that story, click here.
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Source: CNN and ABC News
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