President Trump approves TINY CARS to be built in America
- Thread starter ziggy
- Start date
christiefan915
Catalyst
Don't be so gullible, zig. This is just another distraction.
"At that point, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy said he has cleared the regulations so that car companies can now build and sell the small cars stateside.
To be clear, carmakers are already allowed to build small cars in the United States and no regulations had to be changed."
Trump wants U.S. carmakers to make a tiny car. Why it won't happen
President Donald Trump said he cleared the way for automakers to build and sell a tiny car like ones he saw in Asia.
www.usatoday.com
ziggy
Verified User
AI Overview
Kei cars are generally not sold new in the U.S. due to strict U.S. safety/size regulations, but older models (over 25 years) can be imported and legally driven, with some states allowing newer ones under specific rules, while the market sees growing interest, including potential US-made alternatives inspired by them like the Telo MT-1. New kei trucks/cars must meet U.S. standards (like crash zones, pedestrian safety) and are mostly restricted to private property use.
Why You Don't See Them (New)
Kei cars are generally not sold new in the U.S. due to strict U.S. safety/size regulations, but older models (over 25 years) can be imported and legally driven, with some states allowing newer ones under specific rules, while the market sees growing interest, including potential US-made alternatives inspired by them like the Telo MT-1. New kei trucks/cars must meet U.S. standards (like crash zones, pedestrian safety) and are mostly restricted to private property use.
Why You Don't See Them (New)
- Regulatory Hurdles: Kei cars don't meet U.S. federal safety standards (crashworthiness, hood angles, minimum width).
- Market Mismatch: The U.S. market prefers larger vehicles (trucks/SUVs), making tiny, budget-focused kei cars less economically viable for major manufacturers.
- 25-Year Import Rule: Vehicles 25 years or older from their manufacturing date are exempt from many federal safety rules, allowing import.
- Enthusiast Popularity: There's a growing niche market for older Japanese kei trucks (like Suzuki Carry, Honda Acty) and sports cars (like Suzuki Cappuccino) for their unique style, off-road utility, or fun factor, says this Japan Car Direct article.
- Trump's Interest: President Trump recently expressed interest in allowing kei cars and trucks in the U.S., directing agencies to explore easing regulations, but this faces significant technical and safety challenges.
- U.S. Alternatives: Companies are exploring creating vehicles inspired by kei cars, like the Telo MT-1 electric truck, designed to meet U.S. needs while keeping kei-like proportions, notes this YouTube video.
AProudLefty
The remora of JPP
T. A. Gardner
Serial Thread Killer
I just may go out and buy a Kei truck now! Maybe one with a box on the bed.
It'd be excellent for side work. Maybe add a roof rack for ladders, conduit, and other longer objects.
It'd be excellent for side work. Maybe add a roof rack for ladders, conduit, and other longer objects.
ziggy
Verified User
10 Kei Cars That You Can't Help But Fall In Love With
carbuzz.com
10 Tiny Cars From Japan That Leave A Big Impression: The Best Kei Cars For 2025
We gathered a list of our favorite Kei cars that prove size doesn't matter when you have character and charm in spades.
carbuzz.com
T. A. Gardner
Serial Thread Killer
Now, this is the right idea with a Kei truck...