Why Tiny Cars Are a Hard Sell in America
A Mix of Excitement and Skepticism
America's love affair with big vehicles is well-known. So, when President Trump recently mentioned the possibility of producing tiny kei cars in the U. S., it sparked a mix of excitement and skepticism among enthusiasts. These small, affordable vehicles are a hit in Japan, but they face significant hurdles in the American market.
The Main Issue: Demand
The main issue isn't legality but demand. Kei cars, which are compact and economical, don't meet U. S. safety standards when imported. This means they can only be brought into the country as antiques, which are exempt from these regulations. However, even if they could be produced domestically, the question remains: Would Americans buy them?
Kei Car Owners in the U. S.
Kei car owners in the U. S. are passionate about their vehicles. They praise the cars for their agility, charm, and practicality. For instance, Ryan Douglass swapped his midsize American pickup for a kei truck, which, despite its small size, has a surprisingly spacious bed. The cost savings are also appealing. A new kei car in Japan can be had for less than $15, 000, and imported antiques are even cheaper.
Trade-Offs
Yet, there are trade-offs. These tiny cars lack modern safety features like airbags and antilock braking systems. Some states even ban imported kei vehicles due to safety concerns. Moreover, their small size can make them less visible on American roads, where larger vehicles dominate.
Consumer Preference
The bigger problem is consumer preference. Americans have consistently shown a preference for larger vehicles, which offer more space and safety. This trend is reflected in the market, where subcompact cars make up less than 1% of sales. Even the Smart fortwo, a tiny car that was discontinued in 2019, failed to gain traction despite its affordability and convenience.
The General Consensus
While some kei car enthusiasts remain hopeful, the general consensus is that America's love for big vehicles is unlikely to change soon. As Andy Creedon, a kei car fan, put it, "If I had to bet, I would bet against it."
