Feb 3rd - Japanese Government To Set Rules For 'Supercompacts' In FY12

The government will in fiscal 2012 introduce standards for "supercompacts," two-seat passenger cars in a smaller class than minivehicles.

The move comes amid rising demand among people who drive only in the city and from older Japanese seeking an easy way to run neighborhood errands.

Nissan unveiled its Land Glider, a two-seater electric vehicle, at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2009.

The Transport Ministry plans to set crash-safety standards in fiscal 2011 and submit a bill to revise the current legislation at a Diet session in fiscal 2012. Given that supercompacts are not allowed on highways, the ministry will likely relax safety standards for such autos, a move that could reduce their production costs.

The road transport vehicle law and other regulations define the standards for passenger cars with four or more seats and minivehicles that can carry up to four passengers. These cars are allowed to drive on highways and must meet certain safety standards, such as the ability to protect passengers from serious injury in head-on collisions at speeds of 50kph.

The current regulations also cover one-seat minicars, which are mostly used for delivery services. But because these vehicles are prohibited by law from carrying cargo heavier than 30kg, they can be impractical for shopping and other activities.

Domestic carmakers believe there is excellent potential demand for two-seaters. Not only do they appeal to elderly people looking for a convenient tool for running errands, but they also offer the benefit of lower carbon-dioxide emissions and can help ease traffic congestion in cities.

Nissan Motor Co. presented a two-seat electric concept car designed specifically for city driving at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2009, and continues to fine-tune it.