Toyota to Sell 25-mph Scion KEI-01 Mini Pickup in U.S. Next Year
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Nov 10
Toyota to Sell 25-mph Scion KEI-01 Mini Pickup in U.S. Next Year
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Nov 10
Summary
Toyota said the Scion KEI-01, a tiny pickup inspired by Japan’s kei trucks, will go on sale in the United States next year.
The vehicle will be assembled in Indiana and classified as a federal low-speed vehicle, capping its top speed at 25 mph and generally limiting it to roads posted at 35 mph or less.
That classification lets Toyota avoid the full safety and emissions standards applied to regular passenger vehicles, a hurdle that has largely kept kei trucks out of the U.S. market.
Toyota is betting U.S. demand exists for a stripped-down alternative to full-size pickups such as the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado, which have grown larger, heavier and pricier over time.