US Transportation Sec’y LaHood says he plans to speak to Toyota president about recalls

LaHood to call Toyota president about recalls

WASHINGTON — Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says he plans to speak with Toyota President Akio Toyoda about the automaker’s spate of recalls in the United States. LaHood confirms that the government is investigating potential electrical problems in Toyota vehicles.

LaHood said Wednesday he will call Toyoda in the coming days to make sure the Japanese automaker is aware of the government’s concerns about safety issues with Toyota vehicles.

The secretary says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will conduct an investigation into electronic throttle control systems and potential electromagnetic interference in the nation’s fleet of vehicles.

LaHood says the government “has the resources” to conduct the investigation.