A TINY Japanese truck once banned from roads across America is on the brink of a comeback in yet another state.
The retro ride, known for its compact size and oddball appeal, could soon hit the streets.
Oregon is considering a bill that would legalize Kei cars, a category of micro-sized vehicles made in Japan and South Korea.
Oregon’s Senate Bill 1213 has been introduced, outlining the potential legalization of kei cars in the state and what legally qualifies as road ready.
A vehicle must be 25 years or older, measure no longer than 11 feet, and have an engine no bigger than 660 cc.
The vehicle must also be under 4.9 feet wide and shorter than 6.6 feet tall.
If SB1213 becomes law, kei owners will pay $63 every two years to keep their minitrucks registered.
The $63 fee is more than that of moped and motorcycles, which is $44, but matches costs for low- and medium-speed vehicles.
Still, drivers will face restrictions on where they can take their trucks.
Under the bill, Kei trucks can’t be driven on highways with speed limits above 65mph, given the vehicles limited power and size.
If caught ignoring the restriction, drivers will face a fine of up to $1,000.
Since being introduced, the bill has gained traction and bipartisan support, according to Motor1.
The move comes after years of backlash from drivers who were told these lightweight trucks were unsafe.
Despite their age, Kei trucks were banned in several states, even though other vintage cars without airbags or ABS were still legal.
Oregon lawmakers are saying it’s time to rethink the rules.
“Small businesses, farmers, and Oregonians across our state are asking for practical, cost-effective transportation options,” said State Senator Anthony Broadman.
Where are Kei trucks banned?
Kei trucks, also known as compact Japanese mini trucks, have been banned from certain US states.
The below states have banned the importation of mini trucks due to being “mechanically unfit” for American roads as they aren’t compliant with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Georgia
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- Maine
- Rhode Island
“Kei trucks are nimble, fuel-efficient, and ideal for navigating rural roads, job sites, and tight urban corridors.”
Broadman, a Democrat, introduced the bill with Republican Senator David Brock Smith.
Republican Representative Emily McIntire and Democratic Representative Hai Pham are backing the bipartisan bill in the House as well.
While enthusiasts cheer the comeback, the law only allows models that meet the 25-year import rule, meaning newer Kei trucks are still banned under federal law.
Earlier this month, Texas passed Senate Bill 1816 as it joined 28 other states that allow the Kei truck on public roads.
Kei vehicles were first introduced in Japan to serve crowded cities like Tokyo, where narrow streets demand compact design.
Unlike other states, the Texas law took effect immediately.
This means the Kei truck has been given a head start over places like Colorado, where similar rules won’t kick in until 2027.
Kei trucks are banned from being imported in several US states, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New York, and Maine.
