TOKYO -- Toyota says it is recalling about 437,000 Prius and other hybrid cars worldwide to fix brake problems—the latest in a string of embarrassing safety problems at the world’s largest automaker.
Company President Akio Toyoda made the recall announcement Tuesday afternoon at a press conference.
"We have decided to recall as we regard safety for our customers as our foremost priority," Toyoda said.
There have been about 200 complaints in Japan and the U.S. about a delay when the brakes in the Prius were pressed in some conditions.
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says Toyota’s leaders have assured him they are taking safety concerns "very seriously."
In a statement, LaHood said the transportation agency will "remain in constant communication with Toyota to hold them to that promise."
