For much of Toyota's history, we have ensured the quality and reliability of our vehicles by placing a device called an andon cord on every production line - and empowering any team member to halt production if there's an assembly problem. Only when the problem is resolved does the line begin to move again.

When consumers purchase a Toyota, they are not simply purchasing a car, truck or van. They are placing their trust in our company.

It is in Toyota's DNA that mistakes made once will not be repeated.

I myself, as well as Toyota, am not perfect. I, more than anyone, wish for our customers' cars to be safe.

With respect to sticking accelerator pedals, we failed to connect the dots between problems in Europe and problems in the United States because the European situation related primarily to right-hand-drive vehicles. Toyota will increase its outreach to government agencies charged with protecting the safety of motorists and passengers.

I am at the top of Toyota and drive cars myself. I was also born with this name.