Nidec Suspected of Product Quality Fraud

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--Major Japanese motor maker Nidec Corp. said Wednesday that improper activities, such as changing materials, manufacturing processes and designs without customer approval, are suspected for some of the firm's products.

More than 1,000 such improper cases are believed to have taken place, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The company, based in the western city of Kyoto, set up an investigation committee composed of outside experts the same day. The committee is expected to complete its investigation by the end of August.

Quality irregularities came to light as a result of an internal inspection conducted in the wake of an accounting fraud discovered at the company last September.

"No issues have been identified that would immediately affect product functionality or safety," Nidec said in a statement released Wednesday. Still, it is likely to take more time before the company can regain trust following the discovery of the additional misconduct.

[Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]