Washington: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has revived a familiar demand he wants to see more American-made pickup trucks and large SUVs in global cities like Tokyo and London. As Washington negotiates fresh trade deals, Trump has insisted that Japan and Europe open their markets wider to iconic American vehicles such as the Ford F-150 and the Chevrolet Tahoe. But analysts and automakers alike say this vision may be far from reality.
Trump’s renewed push comes amid efforts to reduce trade deficits and boost U.S. manufacturing. He has publicly criticized what he sees as unfair treatment of American carmakers abroad, pointing to the abundance of Japanese and European cars on U.S. roads compared to the limited presence of American trucks in foreign markets. However, industry experts argue that this imbalance is driven less by trade barriers and more by practical limitations and consumer preferences.
In cities like Tokyo and London, the narrow streets, tight parking spaces, and high fuel prices have long made compact and fuel-efficient cars the preferred choice. The large size of American pickups and SUVs simply doesn’t suit the driving environment in these densely populated urban areas. Moreover, many of these vehicles do not meet the emission and size standards imposed by regulators in Japan and the European Union.
Some U.S. automakers have begun adapting to overseas tastes. Companies like General Motors and Ford have launched right-hand drive versions of select models and electric vehicles like the Cadillac Lyriq and Corvette E-Ray in Japan and the UK. But even these efforts face steep challenges. American brands lack the service networks, fuel efficiency ratings, and brand loyalty that local manufacturers enjoy in these markets.
Beyond physical and logistical hurdles, there’s also a cultural gap. The image of pickup trucks in America rugged, spacious, and powerful doesn’t necessarily translate well to regions where minimalism and practicality dominate consumer choices. In London, where climate-conscious policies are rapidly transforming urban transport, the idea of introducing large gasoline-powered trucks has drawn criticism.
While Trump’s push may gain applause from American manufacturers and voters who favor tough trade rhetoric, industry insiders caution that real success in overseas markets will require more than political will. It will demand innovation, adaptation, and a deeper understanding of local consumer behavior.
As trade discussions continue, the dream of seeing American pickups cruising through Tokyo’s alleys or parked outside London townhouses remains more symbolic than achievable at least for now.