For decades, Japanese road taxation regulations have encouraged the development of practical, small displacement minicars that have evolved from low speed, minimalist transportation to truly practical automobiles. They are economical, have a small environmental footprint, and had a modest MSRP — perfect for an American market where high new car prices are a challenge for cash-strapped consumers in the era of rising interest rates.

Oddly, U.S. automakers are going another direction, with larger, more expensive and more fuel-thirsty SUVs. Could Japanese-style Kei cars be successful in the American marketplace? They are the right car at the right time, argues Jim Anderton.


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ABOUT END OF THE LINE:
Manufacturing veteran James Anderton expresses his compelling and unique opinions about the state of the manufacturing sector and the engineering industry more broadly. He shares his thoughts and insights to help engineering and manufacturing professionals navigate through the challenges of world events, the blending old with new technologies, evolving processes, gaps in skilled labour, in an effort to help maximize productivity of their daily operations. Occasionally, he just likes to vent.

James is a former editor of trade publications in the automotive, metalworking and plastics industries with contributions to a wide range of print and on-line publications. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and manufacturing for a Tier One automotive supplier.

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