Japan's Unusual Strategy to Impress Trump Before His Visit Includes Ford | Carscoops
Japan might display an American pickup outside the Akasaka Palace state guesthouse during President Trump’s visit.
Japan is considering purchasing many Ford pickups prior to Trump's arrival.
Trump has frequently voiced his frustration over the low sales of American cars in Japan, as only 16,000 American-made vehicles were sold in the country last year.
US President Donald Trump is set to visit Japan before the month ends, and the Japanese government is actively seeking ways to ensure a positive relationship with him.
Their intention is to acquire a significant number of Ford F-150s for use in road and dam inspections. This initiative follows closely after the US and Japan announced a new tariff agreement.
According to reports, officials are contemplating the purchase of over 100 F-150s, with one potentially being showcased outside the Akasaka Palace, the state guesthouse where Trump will stay during his visit.
Trump has consistently lamented the minimal presence of American cars in Japan, noting that only 16,000 were sold in 2024, while Japanese manufacturers exported 1.37 million vehicles to the US in the same timeframe.
Although the Japanese government's proposal may seem viable in theory, a significant issue arises, as highlighted by a report from Nikkei Asia.
Ford officially exited the local market in 2016, which means there are no Ford dealerships or service centers available for maintaining the F-150s. Consequently, the government would likely have to seek out independent mechanics for the upkeep of the vehicles.
Additionally, it is important to recognize that the Japanese government has limited ability to encourage private citizens to buy American-made cars in large numbers without offering substantial incentives.
American SUVs and pickups have historically not been popular in Japan, where narrow streets and small parking spaces make smaller domestic vehicles more practical.
Interestingly, Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota Motor, recently indicated a willingness to import some US-built models, such as the Tundra, into Japan, which could serve as a subtle test of local interest in larger American-style vehicles.
Sources: Nikkei Asia
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Japan's Unusual Strategy to Impress Trump Before His Visit Includes Ford | Carscoops
Japan might even present an American pickup truck outside the Akasaka Palace state guesthouse during President Trump's visit.