In the sprawling metropolises of Asia, such as Shanghai and Tokyo, the sight of diminutive vehicles navigating the bustling streets is commonplace.
These compact cars, which may seem minuscule by American standards, serve as efficient modes of transport for commuters in these densely populated cities. Their small size allows for easy parking and maneuverability, and their operation costs are relatively low.
According to RedState, President Trump has now given the green light for the production of these "tiny cars" in the United States. In a recent social media post, the President announced, "I have just approved TINY CARS to be built in America. Manufacturers have long wanted to do this, just like they are so successfully built in other countries. They can be propelled by gasoline, electric, or hybrid. These cars of the very near future are inexpensive, safe, fuel efficient and, quite simply, AMAZING!!! START BUILDING THEM NOW! Thank you to the DOJ and the Departments of Transportation and Environment. ENJOY!!!"
These compact urban commuter cars, which consume gasoline sparingly, could potentially find a receptive market among American city dwellers. The President's decision reportedly came after observing the Japanese "Kei cars," small vehicles that are popular in Japan and other parts of Asia due to their affordability and suitability for narrow roadways.
During a recent discussion, Trump expressed his admiration for these compact vehicles, stating, They have a very small car. Its sort of like the Beetle used to be with the Volkswagen. Theyre very small, theyre really cute. And I said, How would that do in this country? And everyone seems to think good, but youre not allowed to build them.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, in an interview with CNBC, suggested that these tiny cars could be particularly effective in urban environments and could offer a more affordable alternative for some consumers.
Unlike the recently abandoned Biden-era electric vehicle subsidies, the Trump administration has not indicated any intention to promote the sale of these compact cars. Instead, it appears to be removing regulatory barriers to allow American auto manufacturers to produce these vehicles if they perceive a market demand.
The potential market for these tiny cars in the United States remains uncertain. While they could prove as useful for urban residents in New York or Boston as they are in Tokyo, past attempts to introduce compact cars have met with mixed success. The German-built "Smart car," sold in the United States from 2008 to 2019, achieved only moderate sales, leading parent company Mercedes to eventually discontinue the model.
However, the Trump administration seems unlikely to influence the market with any form of subsidy. If a demand exists, American car companies will have the freedom to respond. If not, they won't. The key is that it remains a choice, both for the manufacturers and the consumers.
In matters such as these, having more options is always preferable to having fewer, regardless of Senator Bernie Sanders' (I-VT) views on the subject. The introduction of these tiny cars could potentially expand the range of choices available to American consumers, fostering a free-market environment that aligns with traditional conservative values.
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