Suzuki admits using inappropriate fuel efficiency testing method for Japan

Soon after Mitsubishi’s fuel efficiency manipulation fiasco, Suzuki has admitted to using an improper fuel efficiency testing method. The Japan-based manufacturer’s stock has tumbled by as much as 15 percent soon after the news broke out. The company’s spokesman stated that this problem will be reported to the Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).

The fuel efficiency issue spans out to sixteen models that are available in Japan, which were tested using non-compliant methods. These were different than the ones specified by the Japanese authorities. However, Suzuki has specified that it didn’t intentionally manipulate the test results in its vehicles. It also specified that the issue doesn't apply to the cars sold under its name in countries other than Japan.

The manufacturer analyzed its measuring process on all the sixteen cars, including a driving resistance test (wind resistance test). Suzuki found that the submitted data was produced by adding individual data from different components of the car such as tyres, brakes, and transmission. This data was produced by the rolling resistance and wind resistance test in a wind tunnel instead of a coasting test according to the Japanese regulations. However, Suzuki says that the certified values are within the range of measurement deviation limit and there is no need of amending its fuel efficiency value.

Nevertheless, the variations found in the measurement deviation limit are on the higher side. Elaborating on the issue, the manufacturer states that its testing facility is situated on a hill and is close to the sea, which in turn affects the results.

Ever since the news broke out the stock value of Suzuki has tumbled down drastically, and this can also affect the stock value of its Indian subsidiary, Maruti Suzuki. 

The 16 models which are subject to investigation are:

• Alto
• Alto Lapin
• Wagon R
• Hustler
• Spacia
• Every
• Carry
• Jimny
• Solio
• Ignis
• Baleno
• SX4 S-CROSS
• Swift
• Escudo 2.4
• Escudo
• Jimny Sierra