9/25/08-A legislative panel is considering two draft bills by Sen. Denny Altes, R-Fort Smith, and Rep. Scott Sullivan, D-De Queen, which would open roadways in the state for the increasingly popular mini-truck.
Long considered off-road vehicles, these vehicles go by many names, including Japanese mini-truck, Kei truck, micro-truck, and utility transportation vehicle. Mini-trucks have continued to grow in popularity as the safety conditions of the trucks have improved.
Nine states have passed laws allowing restricted use on some roadways.
The mini-trucks can travel at speeds as fast as 60 mph. They typically have a price tag between $3,000 and $13,000, depending on their age and condition.
Many farmers and construction companies already use mini-trucks to save on fuel costs. Most of the vehicles reportedly get between 30 to 50 miles per gallon, if not higher.
If signed into law in Arkansas, owners of mini-trucks would need to title and register their rides to be cleared for use on state roads. Federal highways would remain off limits.
Neither bill would apply to other smaller transportation devices, such as all-terrain vehicles or four-wheelers.