AsianFin -- The Japanese government is planning to implement a random inspection system for newly manufactured cars to tackle fraudulent testing practices in the automotive industry, Nikkei reported.

Under the proposal by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT), a selection of new vehicles from various manufacturers will undergo safety inspections. This new mechanism aims to enhance quality assurance, supplementing the current process where manufacturers conduct performance tests during type approval and the government conducts checks post-production.

The move comes in response to recent scandals involving testing irregularities at companies like Daihatsu and Toyota Industries Corporation. To prevent similar incidents, the MLIT has convened expert meetings to devise countermeasures. On December 2, the ministry will present a comprehensive plan that includes introducing post-production oversight mechanisms.

Currently, manufacturers perform "factory inspections" on vehicles before shipping them to dealers. Under the new system, the government will conduct random inspections during the period between factory testing and customer delivery to verify compliance with the safety standards outlined in the Road Transport Vehicle Act.