The Real Reason America Can’t Have The Tiny Japanese-Style Cars Trump Says He Wants
Trump is right that kei cars are super-kawaii — but he's wrong that clearing the regulatory decks is enough to bring them to U.S. shores.
By
Kea Wilson
9:03 PM PST on December 15, 2025
Trump is right that kei cars are super-kawaii — but he's wrong that clearing the regulatory decks is enough to bring them to U.S. shores.
Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.
More from Streetsblog California
There’s One Week Left. Help Us Make Our Summer Goal
We're just under 3/4 of the way there with one week left. Help us pedal over the finish line!
August 25, 2026
Tuesday’s Headlines
A somewhat mellow stack of headlines for a change...if you're ok with governments giving up on fighting Climate Change.
August 25, 2026
Legislative Update: Take Action
Last week, Streetsblog told you what was moving. This week, we're helping you take action.
August 25, 2026
Eyes on the Street: Spring/Alameda Bikeway Construction
LADOT is adding a 1.2-mile of new protected bike lanes, connecting cyclists to Union Station and L.A. State Historic Park
August 24, 2026
Vote “No” on “G” and Preserve Sunset Dunes
The easiest endorsement Streetsblog has ever done.
August 24, 2026
