Toyota USA President Looks Lost In Front Of Congress (TM)

Toyota (NYSE: TM) USA President James Lentz is lost for words right now as he testifies live in front of the U.S. Congressional Hearing Board. To paint a picture for you, imagine the Congressional Board as a firing squad and James Lentz as a man with his hands tied behind his back.

Now don't feel sympathy here, lives have been lost as a direct result of Toyota's failure to create cars that only "Go" when you want them to "Go!" Lentz, who has no engineering background, is trying to explain Toyota's solutions to problems. The only problem is, the solutions he are presenting are to problems that aren't being asked about.

He tried to explain a problem with a 2005 Toyota Camry that accelerated off a cliff and killed a woman by saying they had identified problems with 2004 Camrys. The Congressman that asked the question seemed very frustrated that Toyota has yet to put their hands around all of the problems they have.

Congress officials are telling them to start recalling all cars that they think may have a problem. They want the products that are built to be safe.

The Congress also said, "You can solve it if your legal department will let you solve it." It seems he was eluding to the fact that Toyota is tight lipped and reluctant to recall any more cars as it could bring up more lawsuits and admit fault. This attempt by Toyota to avoid legal fees may cost them dearly in the end as the recalls will probably increase going forward.

--> 9 Reasons To Run From Toyota's Stock.