The Chief Executive Officer of Erata Motors, Eddie Kusi, has called for broader stakeholder engagement over concerns surrounding the use and regulation of Toyota Voxy vehicles, cautioning against a blanket ban on the popular commercial cars.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Kusi clarified that Erata Motors does not directly sell converted Toyota Voxy vehicles. He explained that most of the vehicles in question are originally imported from Japan as right-hand drive units and later converted locally to left-hand drive.
According to him, the issue of road safety involving Voxy vehicles should not be attributed solely to the conversion of the steering system. He argued that other contributing factors must be considered in addressing accidents involving such vehicles.
“Many individuals depend on these vehicles for their livelihoods. A complete ban would create economic hardship,” he stated.
Mr. Kusi further noted that the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) already has sufficient data on the vehicles and should prioritize public education and effective regulation rather than imposing outright restrictions.
He also urged the Authority to engage transport unions and other relevant stakeholders in dialogue aimed at properly educating the public and addressing the root causes of accidents associated with the vehicles.
He added that while the use of Voxy vehicles for long-distance commercial transport may pose certain risks, a more structured approach involving education, regulation, and stakeholder engagement would yield better results than a ban.
