The investigative committee tasked by truck and bus maker Hino Motors blamed the scandal on an environment where engineers did not feel able to challenge superiors, in a rare criticism of corporate culture in Japan.

Toyota says it needs to offer a variety of powertrains -- such as hybrid and fuel cell vehicles -- to suit different markets and customers.

Stellantis shareholder Phitrust estimated the value of the total compensation package awarded last year to Tavares at 66 million euros ($71 million) ahead of the automaker's group’s first annual general meeting.