President Trump has approved the production of Japan’s kei microcars in the U.S. These tiny vehicles offer affordability, safety, and fuel efficiency. Kei cars are 30% shorter than a Toyota Camry and start at just over $10,000 in Japan, a stark contrast to the average new-car price in the U.S. of $50,080.

Despite the price gap, the question remains whether American drivers are willing to adjust their expectations to embrace kei cars. Some drivers have already imported older kei cars independently, showing interest in the compact vehicles. There is a grassroots interest in bringing kei cars to the U.S.

President Trump’s push for domestic manufacturing aligns with his approval of kei car production. Automakers are repositioning to move production from Mexico to the U.S., citing tariff shifts and domestic production incentives. Despite policy changes, automakers have not shown immediate plans to introduce tiny cars in the U.S.

Toyota and Nissan are open to introducing smaller vehicles in the U.S. if there is consumer demand. Historically, American drivers have preferred larger cars and trucks, with light trucks and SUVs accounting for 84% of new vehicle sales in November. Rising vehicle costs and affordability pressures persist in the market.

Federal regulators are considering allowing kei-size vehicles in the U.S. market, working to meet safety standards for the compact cars. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy aims to ensure Americans can afford cars that fit their needs, whether gas-powered or electric. The potential introduction of tiny cars could offer a lower-cost option for drivers.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Trump’s ‘cute’ tiny car plan could spark radical change in US auto industry. But do Americans want Japan-style compacts?