Local news
The RMV originally banned kei cars from Massachusetts roads in June.
Kei vehicles can now be registered with the Registry of Motor Vehicles, the department said on Tuesday.
“The RMV intends to register Kei Vehicles while continuing to review the safety implications of Kei Vehicles on public roads,” the RMV said in a statement.
Kei vehicles are small, light cars and trucks made in Japan. Massachusetts officials banned them from registering in the state in July, saying the vehicles did not meet federal safety standards and typically lack safety features such as airbags, bumpers and tempered glass.
But the RMV now says a “preliminary assessment of industry standards” prompted it to change its policy. Registration for kei vehicles began on Wednesday, the statement said.
However, this decision may be temporary. RMV said it will conduct a study on kei vehicles on the road and release its findings. Owners can register their vehicles while the study is ongoing, the statement said.
Kei owners who wish to register their vehicle can visit their local RMV Service Center, the statement said. Newly registered kei owners can get a passenger or commercial plate.
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