Trump plans to allow Japan’s small, fuel-efficient Kei cars in the U.S., bypassing safety and size hurdles.

President Donald Trump announced plans to allow the production and sale of Japan’s small Kei cars in the U.S., following a trip to Japan where he praised their compact size and affordability. He directed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to fast-track regulatory approvals, aiming to roll back Biden-era fuel economy standards and expand consumer choice. The move, part of a broader shift toward less stringent vehicle efficiency rules, faces challenges due to U.S. safety standards and concerns over the cars’ suitability for American roads, particularly freeways. While Kei cars are popular in Japan for their low cost and fuel efficiency, their introduction to the U.S. market remains uncertain due to size, speed, and safety limitations.