House Bill No. 4578 introduces new regulations regarding the titling, registration, and operation of miniature vehicles in Texas. The bill defines a "miniature vehicle" as a small car, truck, van, or bus manufactured in Japan, with specific criteria including a maximum engine displacement of 1,200 cubic centimeters, dimensions not exceeding 60 inches in width, 140 inches in length, and 80 inches in height, and a top speed of at least 50 miles per hour. The bill establishes that miniature vehicles will be treated as motor vehicles for titling and registration purposes, provided they are at least 25 years old at the time of import or registration.

Additionally, the bill outlines the necessary equipment standards for miniature vehicles, mandating features such as headlamps, stoplamps, turn signal lamps, tail lamps, a parking brake, a rearview mirror, and windshield wipers. It also stipulates that these vehicles can only be operated on public highways if they are properly registered and titled in accordance with state laws. The provisions of this act will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 502.001 (Transportation Code 502)