JOINT RELEASE: Kei Truck Bill Becomes Law

BROOMFIELD, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Representative William Lindstedt and Senator Nick Hinrichsen into law that will allow Coloradans to drive kei trucks on certain public roads.

“I’m proud to pass this law to legalize kei vehicles in Colorado,” said Rep. William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield. “From helping with farm work to higher gas mileage, kei trucks offer many benefits, and Coloradans should have the opportunity to drive them. This constituent-led law will finally allow kei vehicles to join us on the road.”

“Kei trucks are a versatile, affordable option for Colorado drivers,” said Sen. Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo. “They’re especially useful for hauling construction materials and agricultural products while navigating narrow alleys, tight parking spots, and other realities of driving in Colorado’s cities and towns. I’m proud to sponsor this law that gives Coloradans another vehicle option to meet their needs.”

HB25-1281 adds “kei vehicle” to the definition of motor vehicle in Colorado statute, legalizing their registration and use on Colorado roads. The law outlines emissions testing requirements and allows for two-speed idle testing for kei vehicles that cannot complete the typical treadmill test due to the design of the vehicle.

Under this law, kei vehicles cannot be driven on roads with speed limits over 55 miles per hour or on interstate highways. Kei vehicles must be at least 25 years old to be included in this law, which mirrors the 25-year import window in federal law and reduces competition with U.S. automakers. The law, also sponsored by Representative Larry Don Suckla, R-Cortez, and Senator Byron Pelton, R-Sterling, is set to go into effect on July 1, 2027.