Mitsubishi Fuso Becomes First Japan Automotive Manufacturer
To Receive ISO/TS 16949 Quality Certification
For Complete Vehicle Manufacturing Process

Kawasaki, Japan - Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), one of Asia’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, today announced its certification for the ISO/TS 16949 standard. MFTBC is the first automotive manufacturer in Japan to obtain this certification in the scope of complete vehicle manufacturing process. The certificate was acquired on April 1, 2011.

Dr. Albert Kirchmann, MFTBC President and CEO, said, “MFTBC is pleased to have earned the ISO/TS16949 certification. This is the result of our strong determination for continuous improvement and strict discipline over a period of years, and shows our dedication to quality in all aspects.”

The ISO/TS 16949 is the international standard for quality management system for the automobile industry sector with very stringent requirements to satisfy global procurement standards for automotive parts in the auto industry based on ISO 9001. The requirements focus on prevention of failure, reduction of wastes and variation in quality. In addition, it is aimed at verifying a system for enabling continued improvements to provide products and services from a customer-oriented perspective.

The certification acquired by MFTBC is applicable to all the company’s truck and component operations: Kawasaki Plant and Engineering Center; Nakatsu Plant; Kitsuregawa Proving Ground; Atsugi Parts Center; and Higashi Ohgishima Logistics Center. The scope includes assembly of trucks, and manufacturing of engines, transmissions, and axles for use on commercial vehicles.

Reaching Next Level of Quality Management Process

MFTBC places top priority on strengthening its quality management and assurance systems. Following the company’s certification of the ISO 9001:2000 in March 2006, MFTBC has been further working on elevating its quality management system to the next level. At the same time, the company has been reviewing its overall quality control processes and has increased its human resources allocation to its Quality Management Office.

Based in Kawasaki, Japan, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) is one of Asia's leading commercial vehicle manufacturers. In 2010, the company sold a total of about 140,700 vehicles including light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses. Daimler AG owns 89.29% of MFTBC shares and various Mitsubishi group companies own 10.71% of MFTBC shares. MFTBC is an integral part of the Daimler Trucks Division of Daimler AG.