[r18] House Approved Mini Trucks on Local Roads (2/12/2009)

House Approved Mini Trucks on Local Roads

(STATEHOUSE) Feb. 12, 2009 - Indiana's House of Representatives passed House Bill 1043 which would allow the use of mini trucks on local roads and one lane highways if properly titled and registered by the BMV.  Mini truck dealers must also register as a dealer in Indiana. 

Mini trucks are prohibited from interstates and two lane state highways.

"Mini trucks meet the requirement of what defines a car and truck," said House Bill author Rep. Dave Wolkins (R-Winona Lake). "They have seat belts, air conditioning, radio/cd players, turn signals, and high-beams. Why shouldn't they be allowed on the road?"

Mini trucks are made by seven foreign car companies: Daihatsu, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Subaru and Suzuki. Several domestic car manufactures have sought interest in mini trucks and are considering entering the market if the demand is there.

Mini Truck Specifications:

• 660cc, liquid cooled, 3 cylinder motor, 4 stroke, gas or diesel, 4x4 drive
• 4 or 5 speed manual transmission with high/low transfer case
• 4' x 6' box has fold down and removable sides and tailgate (box can also have lifts/raisers installed)
• Radio, windshield wipers, seat belts, standard lights and full instrumentation
• Approximately 50+ MPG
• Catalytic converter
• Seats 2
• Optional Air conditioning, Dump box, and extended cab
• Can reach speeds up to 70MPH

Currently law in Indiana defines mini trucks as off road vehicles. Off road vehicles are mechanisms such as golf carts, ATVs, Bobcats, and Gators which don't require BMV registration but can't be used on public roads. House Bill 1043 would categorize Mini Trucks as a different vehicle class than the previously stated.    

Originally mini trucks were called low speed agro vehicles. Now mini trucks can reach speeds over 70mph and have evolved into on road automobiles for everyday use. They can also be accessorized with winches, plows, extended cabs and roll bars.    

"These mini trucks are great," said Rep. Wolkins. "They would be great to make trips to local places such as pharmacies or grocery stores. They have tremendous off road capabilities also. You can take out in fields or out hunting then go get groceries immediately after." 

Mini trucks can be purchased from $4,000 to $11,000. 

House Bill 1043 will next be voted on by the Indiana Senate after March 2^nd.