President Trump has invited Japan's "cute" mini trucks, known as kei vehicles, to come to America. The tiny vehicles have gained a devoted following in the US for their unique size and fuel efficiency.
Trump's announcement came during a briefing with reporters, where he expressed admiration for the pint-sized autos. "They're very small. They're really cute," Trump said. "And I said, how would that do in this country? And everyone seems to think, good, but you're not allowed to build them." However, Trump revealed that his administration is authorizing the US Department of Transportation to allow kei vehicles to be built in the US.
The regulation surrounding the legality of kei vehicles in the US is complex. While federal rules permit the importation of mini trucks over 25 years old, state laws governing their on-road use and registration are unclear. Moreover, kei vehicles must comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, which dictate issues such as steering wheel placement and vehicle weight.
While it's uncertain whether kei trucks will find a strong market in the US, they have gained traction among enthusiasts who appreciate their size and fuel efficiency. The vehicles offer an antidote to the giant SUVs and trucks that dominate American roads. Trump's move is also seen as part of his broader efforts to reduce fuel prices by making cars more affordable.
However, experts predict that any savings from lower-priced vehicles will be offset by higher fuel costs over time. Nevertheless, the announcement represents a significant shift in US transportation policy and could have implications for the automotive industry.
Trump's announcement came during a briefing with reporters, where he expressed admiration for the pint-sized autos. "They're very small. They're really cute," Trump said. "And I said, how would that do in this country? And everyone seems to think, good, but you're not allowed to build them." However, Trump revealed that his administration is authorizing the US Department of Transportation to allow kei vehicles to be built in the US.
The regulation surrounding the legality of kei vehicles in the US is complex. While federal rules permit the importation of mini trucks over 25 years old, state laws governing their on-road use and registration are unclear. Moreover, kei vehicles must comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, which dictate issues such as steering wheel placement and vehicle weight.
While it's uncertain whether kei trucks will find a strong market in the US, they have gained traction among enthusiasts who appreciate their size and fuel efficiency. The vehicles offer an antidote to the giant SUVs and trucks that dominate American roads. Trump's move is also seen as part of his broader efforts to reduce fuel prices by making cars more affordable.
However, experts predict that any savings from lower-priced vehicles will be offset by higher fuel costs over time. Nevertheless, the announcement represents a significant shift in US transportation policy and could have implications for the automotive industry.