NHK WORLD
 
Japanese auto parts maker Takata says the company is ready for a nationwide recall of its airbags in the United States.
 
Automakers have issued recalls in Japan, the United States and elsewhere since defects were found in Takata's airbags. Last month, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ordered Takata to expand its recall to the entire country.
 
Takata informed the authorities of its cooperation ahead of a US House hearing scheduled for Wednesday. Executives from Takata and Honda will attend the hearing.
 
Takata says it will consult automakers to decide which models will be recalled.
The company says it will set up a panel of outside experts to inspect the manufacturing process. The panel will be headed by former US Transportation Secretary Samuel Skinner. Another former Transportation Secretary, Norman Mineta, will serve as an advisor.
 
Takata also says it will increase production at its factories in Mexico, China and Germany to boost supplies of replacement parts. It will also study whether other makers' parts can be used.
 
Millions of vehicles may be covered by a nationwide recall. Honda, Mazda and other automakers will face various tasks, such as boosting parts production and informing their customers about the recall.
 
Takata officials say the company apologizes to people who were injured by its airbags.