LaHood to meet with Toyota execs in Japan

[Coventina]

Source: Chicago Sun-Times

WASHINGTON -- Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says he'll go to Japan this summer for talks with Toyota executives about the sudden acceleration problem plaguing some Toyotas.

His department has defended its policing of the auto industry and noted it sent safety officials to Japan last year to urge Toyota to take safety concerns seriously.

Meanwhile, Toyota shareholders incensed over a sudden drop in the stock price are heading to court with lawsuits claiming company executives deliberately misled investors and the public about the depth of accelerator problems in its vehicles.

Shares rose from just over $75 on Oct. 5, the day of Toyota's floor mat recall, to above $90 on Jan. 21, when Toyota announced another recall -- over gas pedals it says can stick in certain conditions.

Read more: http://www.suntimes.com/business/2115170,CST-NWS-lahood22.article