Trump Criticizes ‘Tiny Cars’ in Unusual Truth Social Post

Former President Donald Trump recently made headlines with a striking post on Truth Social, announcing the approval of “tiny cars” for American production. He described these vehicles as inexpensive, safe, fuel-efficient, and surprisingly appealing, urging manufacturers to commence their construction immediately.

Trump’s Interest in Kei Cars

Trump’s enthusiasm for tiny cars appears to stem from his observations during trips to Asia, particularly Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia. These vehicles, known as kei cars, are prevalent in Asian markets and are tailored for narrow city roads.

Specifications and Features

The kei cars Trump champions include models like the Nissan Sakura, an eco-friendly electric vehicle. However, they currently do not meet U.S. federal automotive standards, which Trump suggests should be relaxed to facilitate their production.

Government Support for Mini-Cars

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has been tasked with creating a conducive environment for the domestic manufacturing of these compact vehicles. He stated, “Are they going to work on the freeways? Probably not,” indicating that these cars are more suited for urban settings.

• Affordability: Duffy emphasized that these cars would be significantly cheaper than other vehicles available.
• Usage Limitations: Restrictions exist in several states regarding their operation, primarily due to concerns over safety and size.
• Safety Concerns: Experts argue that these lightweight vehicles may be insufficiently protected during collisions with larger trucks or SUVs.

The Road Ahead for Tiny Cars

Integrating kei cars into the American market will require navigating various challenges. Currently, regulations often limit their use to private roads or low-speed areas, limiting their practicality in typical driving environments.

In Japan, kei cars account for approximately one-third of new vehicle sales, benefiting from favorable tax treatment. Trump’s initiative could potentially pave the way for manufacturers like Toyota to offer modified versions suitable for U.S. regulations, should the necessary rules be adjusted.

As the landscape for automotive manufacturing evolves, the future of tiny cars in America remains uncertain but holds hints of promising developments ahead.