Business

Toyota subsidiary shuts down after admitting it falsified safety tests on December 27, 2023 at 10:24 pm Business News | The Hill

Published

1 year ago

December 27, 2023

Daihatsu, the Japanese automaker owned by Toyota, has shut down its factories in Japan, months after the automaker admitted to falsifying safety tests on vehicles, the Associated Press reported.

The shutdown follows Daihatsu Motor Co.’s announcement last week that it would suspend all vehicle shipments in and outside of Japan after an independent investigation found problems with 64 vehicle models.

In the latest probe, the company said investigators found 174 new cases of irregularities in safety tests and other procedures in 25 test categories. This included evidence of tampering with safety tests, creating false information or fabricating test data, the company said.

The release of the probe’s details prompted Japan’s Transport Ministry to begin on-site inspections last week, according to multiple local media reports. These inspections are looking into issues that apparently have been present at the company for decades, with the first irregularity dating back to 1989.

Daihatsu this week said it began shutting down some lines on Monday and halted production at all four Japanese plants in Shiga, Kyoto and Oita prefectures, along with its headquarters in Osaka on Tuesday, the AP reported.

The company did not say when production will restart, but a company representative told CNN the shutdown is expected to last through at least the end of January.

The Hill reached out to Toyota for further comment.

Last week’s probe and the ongoing investigation by Japan’s Transport Ministry serves as the latest blow to Daihatsu, which has faced several issues in the past year.

In April, Daihatsu admitted to violating standards for collision tests and procedures on over 88,000 vehicles, including cars mostly those sold under the Toyota brand in Thailand and Malaysia.

Later in May, the company said it discovered other problems with its side collision testing for two hybrid electric vehicles (EV).

In a statement last week, Toyota apologized for the “inconvenience and concern” the findings have caused to stakeholders and stressed the importance of reform moving forward.

“We believe in order to prevent recurrence, in addition to a review of certification operations, a fundamental reform is needed to revitalize Daihatsu as a company,” Toyota wrote, adding later, “Toyota will provide our full support to Daihatsu’s revitalization so that it can return to its roots as the ‘compact mobility company’ that Toyota and Daihatsu are striving for it to be, as well as regain the trust of all stakeholders.”

Daihatsu’s shutdown is expected to impact about 9,000 employees who work in domestic production, a company representative told CNN. Daihatsu factories have supply chains including 8,136 companies across Japan, with total sales equaling about $15.53 billion, the AP reported, citing the market research company Teikoku Databank.

Business, Daihatsu, Japan, Toyota Daihatsu, the Japanese automaker owned by Toyota, has shut down its factories in Japan, months after the automaker admitted to falsifying safety tests on vehicles, the Associated Press reported. The shutdown follows Daihatsu Motor Co.’s announcement last week that it would suspend all vehicle shipments in and outside of Japan after an independent investigation found…

Business

Amsterdam’s Red Light Revolution: A Daring Leap into the Future of Sex Work

Published

5 hours ago

March 16, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

In a bold move that has sparked intense debate, Amsterdam is pushing forward with plans to relocate part of its iconic Red Light District to a new “Erotic Center” in the Europaboulevard area of Amsterdam-Zuid. This ambitious project, spearheaded by Mayor Femke Halsema, aims to address long-standing issues of overcrowding, safety, and the city’s struggle with overtourism.

The Proposal

The proposed Erotic Center is envisioned as a multi-story complex that would house 100 brothels, effectively relocating them from the current Red Light District. Unlike the traditional window displays, the new center would restrict visibility to the inside of the building, marking a significant shift in how sex work is presented in the city.

Key features of the plan include:

A safe workplace for sex workers
Reduced tourist disruptions in the city center
Efforts to combat crime associated with prostitution
Space for LGBTQI+ communities
Cultural events linked to eroticism, such as lectures on feminism and tantric yoga courses

Timeline and Challenges

If approved, the Erotic Center is not expected to open until 2031 at the earliest. The project still faces several hurdles, including multiple city council votes and ongoing consultations with stakeholders.

Mayor Halsema acknowledges that many aspects of the plan remain unclear, including how existing brothel owners will be bought out and the potential costs to the city. The process is described as “careful and gradual,” with many decisions yet to be made.

Opposition and Concerns

The proposal has met with significant opposition from various groups:

The Bigger Picture

This initiative is part of a broader effort to reshape Amsterdam’s image and manage its tourism challenges. Other measures include banning public marijuana smoking in the Red Light District and launching a “Stay Away” campaign aimed at deterring disruptive tourists.

As Amsterdam grapples with balancing its reputation as a progressive, open-minded city with the need to improve quality of life for residents, the Erotic Center represents a controversial but potentially transformative approach to managing sex work and tourism in the 21st century.

The coming months and years will be crucial in determining whether this bold vision becomes a reality, and how it might reshape one of Amsterdam’s most famous, and contentious, industries.

Looking Ahead

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

Business

“The New American Oligarchs: Who Rules the USA?” – A Revealing Look at Modern Tycoons

Published

6 hours ago

March 16, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

In this eye-opening documentary, viewers are taken on a journey through the world of America’s ultra-wealthy, exploring how modern tycoons shape the nation’s economy and future. The film delves into the lives and strategies of billionaires who have become the new robber barons of the 21st century.

The Rise of Tech Titans

The documentary highlights how technological revolutions have created unprecedented wealth, focusing on figures like Elon Musk. As the world’s richest person, Musk exemplifies the calculated risk-taking that defines modern tycoons. His ventures, including Tesla and SpaceX, showcase the immense potential and perils of ambitious entrepreneurship in America.

From Rags to Riches: The American Dream

The film draws parallels between today’s billionaires and historical figures like John D. Rockefeller, emphasizing the enduring appeal of the American Dream. It explores how tycoons often rise from humble beginnings, driven by a relentless desire to innovate and succeed.

The Walmart Empire

The Walton family’s story is presented as a quintessential example of American capitalism. From Sam Walton’s small Arkansas shop to the global retail giant Walmart, the documentary examines how innovative business practices and technology adoption led to unprecedented success.

Controversy and Criticism

The documentary doesn’t shy away from the controversies surrounding these powerful figures. It addresses criticisms of companies like Walmart regarding labor practices and community impact, highlighting the complex relationship between corporate success and social responsibility.

The Power Dilemma

A central theme of the film is the ongoing challenge of balancing business success with the greater good. It raises questions about the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few individuals and corporations, echoing concerns from the era of the original robber barons.

This thought-provoking documentary offers a comprehensive look at the modern American tycoon, exploring their rise, impact, and the societal questions their success raises in an ever-evolving economic landscape.

Looking Ahead

Business

The Last of Us” Season 2: Cast and Creators Share Insights at SXSW

Published

1 week ago

March 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

The cast and creators of the highly anticipated second season of “The Last of Us” gathered at SXSW to discuss the upcoming season. The panel featured cast members Pedro Pascal (Joel), Bella Ramsey (Ellie), Gabriel Luna (Tommy), Kaitlyn Dever (Abby), Isabela Merced (Dina), and Young Mazino (Jesse), along with co-creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin.

Navigating Expectations and Surprising Fans

With the immense success of season one, Druckmann and Mazin acknowledged the pressure to deliver a worthy follow-up. Mazin emphasized their approach to cater to both fans of the game and newcomers to the series. “We try and think about the people who have played the game and make sure that we keep them on their toes and a little bit surprised,” Mazin stated. Druckmann highlighted the emotional weight of adapting “The Last of Us Part II,” emphasizing the dedication of the entire production team to doing justice to the source material.

A Glimpse into Season 2

Attendees were treated to a trailer for season two, offering a glimpse into the evolving relationship between Joel and Ellie five years after the events of the first season. Ramsey described the changed dynamic, hinting at a rift between the characters. Pascal added that their relationship is in “a different place” and that it is “fucking heartbreaking”.

Big Ideas: Tribalism, Love, and Loss

The creators delved into the central themes of season two, including tribalism, the destructive nature of love, and the consequences of loss. Druckmann explained that the season explores the complexities of community and the dehumanization that can occur when groups clash. Mazin emphasized the escalation of these themes, highlighting the potential for isolation and the lengths characters will go to protect their loved ones.

New and Expanded Characters

The panel also touched on new characters and expanded roles in season two. Gabriel Luna discussed Tommy’s evolution into a father, emphasizing how it solidifies his purpose and strengthens his commitment to protecting his family and community. The introduction of new characters like Gail, played by Catherine O’Hara, and the expansion of existing characters like Isaac, played by Jeffrey Wright, promise to add depth and nuance to the narrative. Additionally, the inclusion of Joe Pantoliano as Eugene, a character mentioned but not seen in the game, offers a rewarding experience for longtime fans.

Music as a Binding Force

Music continues to play a significant role in “The Last of Us,” particularly in the relationship between Joel and Ellie. Ramsey shared that music serves as a bonding experience for the characters, mirroring the connection between the actors on set. The guitar, a symbol of Joel’s promise to teach Ellie, takes on a more prominent role in season two.

Diving into the Game

The actors discussed their individual approaches to engaging with the source material. Kaitlyn Dever shared her experience playing the game with her father, while Young Mazino admitted to playing the second game up to a certain point.

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