Trump Observed These "Adorable" Cars in Japan and Now Desires Them on US Streets | Carscoops

      The president has instructed officials to facilitate the entry of kei cars that have not met US safety regulations or encountered US market conditions.

      6 hours ago

      by Chris Chilton

      Trump aims to approve kei cars after developing an interest in them during his visit to Asia.

      He believes Americans could benefit from vehicles that are more affordable to purchase and maintain.

      Kei cars currently do not meet US crash test requirements, but Trump could alter the regulations.

      Adorable, inexpensive, and appealing, tiny kei microcars are extremely popular in Japan and have even gained a dedicated fan base in the US among those willing to wait 25 years to import one. Now, in an unexpected announcement, President Trump expresses a desire to make them a standard option in the US.

      Following a recent trip to Japan, Trump told reporters he fell in love with the little cars and was curious why Americans couldn't buy them brand new.

      What’s Driving the Kei Fascination?

      “They’re very small, they’re really cute, and I asked, ‘How would that perform in this country?’” Trump remarked this week as he unveiled intentions to reduce stringent fuel economy standards set by his predecessor, Joe Biden.

      When informed that kei cars fail US crash-test standards and generally crumple in collisions with substantially larger vehicles like the F-150, Trump seemingly concluded that the issue lies with regulations rather than the vehicles. He has tasked Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy with the job of making it feasible for manufacturers like Toyota and Honda to produce these microcars domestically.

      However, Trump’s excitement might be somewhat misguided. Kei cars adhere to rigid dimensional and engine-size regulations in Japan, with a maximum size of 660 cc and a height that barely exceeds some full-sized truck tires.

      Additionally, while they excel in congested Tokyo traffic, kei cars look quite out of place next to American pickups that can weigh as much as a London bus. They also lack speed, provide limited space for larger American occupants, and are certainly at risk during accidents.

      The Financial Viability Is Uncertain

      Moreover, there’s the economic aspect to consider. Analysts note that Japanese manufacturers have little incentive to produce kei cars in the US, where small cars have low sales figures and profit margins that leave accountants distressed. Even if regulations were amended, manufacturers would require new tools, factories, and a market that may or may not exist.

      Nevertheless, Trump’s enthusiasm has slightly opened the door. If kei cars can manage to enter, Americans might soon encounter something remarkable at their local dealership—a vehicle so compact that even a Miata would seem like a Mercedes SL.

      Should the government loosen regulations to allow new kei cars on US roads, and would there be any real demand for them? Share your thoughts in the comments.