TOKYO, Japan, February 24, 2010 (WSFB-AC) – In an act to redeem himself and his family from shame, the President of Toyota recently committed hari-kari by driving a Prius. Akio Toyota has brought shame and disgrace to a once proud industry giant, but restored his honor in death by driving one of his company’s own vehicles.

Like a defeated samurai in ancient Japan would fall upon his short sword when his shame was too unbearable, Mr. Toyota drove a midnight blue colored Prius with extra thick floormats across the Chuo Expressway, bringing about a silent and honorable death.

Wall Street had a mixed reaction to the move. Early investors interpreted Mr. Toyota’s act as a signal of a renewed commitment to quality and safety.  Other investors were less sure. Kevin Johnson, of Pinto Ventures, a large automobile industry investor group, said “Isn’t that kind of weird? He works for Toyota….and his last name is Toyota? Dude.”