Kei trucks, as originally manufactured in Japan and classified as Kei cars, are not street legal in the United Kingdom due to several reasons:
1. Vehicle Size and Safety Standards: Kei trucks are designed and manufactured according to specific regulations in Japan, including size, engine displacement, and safety standards. These regulations do not align with the safety and roadworthiness standards required for cars to be used on UK roads.
2. Left-Hand Drive vs. Right-Hand Drive: Most Kei trucks are manufactured with right-hand drive (RHD) configuration, which is suitable for driving in Japan where traffic flows on the left side of the road. In the UK, cars must have left-hand drive (LHD) to ensure proper visibility and safe operation on the right side of the road.
3. Emissions and Environmental Standards: Kei trucks might not meet the emissions and environmental standards required for cars to be registered and driven in the UK. The emissions regulations and safety standards in the UK are different from those in Japan.
4. Modifications and Compliance: Importing a Kei truck to the UK would likely require significant modifications to meet local regulations, including changes to safety features, lighting, emissions controls, and more. These modifications could be costly and complex.
It’s important to note that while importing and modifying Kei trucks for use on UK roads might be possible, it can be a challenging and costly process. Converting a Kei truck to meet UK road standards might involve extensive engineering and retrofitting to ensure the car is safe, compliant, and roadworthy.
Before considering importing and modifying a Kei truck for use in the UK, it’s recommended to consult with a professional who specializes in car importation and compliance. They can provide guidance on the legal and regulatory requirements, potential modifications, and the overall feasibility of the project.