Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says he'll go to Japan this summer for talks with Toyota executives about the sudden acceleration problem plaguing some Toyotas.

LaHood also says he'll examine Japan's high-speed rail system.

He spoke to reporters at the Capitol Saturday before President Barack Obama's health care meeting with Democrats.

His department has defended its policing of the auto industry and noted it sent safety officials to Japan last year to urge Toyota to take safety concerns seriously.

Toyota's president was in Washington for recent congressional hearings and told LaHood that Toyota would "advance safety to the next level."

Toyota has recalled more than 8 million vehicles since last fall. It blames the problem on floor mats that trap gas pedals or on accelerators that become sticky.