VOICED: Massive recall contiunes to hit beleagured Toyota brand

Toyota has recalled nearly 8 million vehicles worldwide due to accelerator pedal issues and is now facing potential brake failures in its Prius hybrids. The company's rapid overseas expansion is cited as a factor in these problems. The recalls have significantly impacted Toyota's sales, especially in the US, where sales fell below 100,000 vehicles for the first time in over a decade. Despite criticism abroad, Toyota maintains support in Japan, where its brand is synonymous with quality. However, the US government is demanding answers, putting Toyota's reputation at risk.

What issue is Toyota currently investigating in its Prius hybrids?

• Fuel efficiency

• Transmission problems

• Engine overheating

• Brake failure

What is one reason analysts believe Toyota faced quality control issues?

• Lack of skilled labor

• Rapid overseas expansion

• Insufficient funding

• Outdated technology

How has the global economic crisis affected Toyota?

• Expansion into new markets

• Higher sales in Europe

• Increased production costs

• Financial losses and recalls

What significant change occurred in Toyota's U.S. sales in January?

• Sales increased by 10%

• Sales exceeded 200,000 vehicles

• Sales fell below 100,000 vehicles

• Sales remained stable

How is Toyota's reputation perceived in Japan despite international criticism?

• It is severely damaged

• It remains a benchmark for quality

• It is improving rapidly

• It is unknown