Michigan’s Delica Dilemma: A Case of Misidentification
Michigan is creating a headache for Mitsubishi Delica owners by misclassifying their vehicles as off-road vehicles, effectively making them ineligible for street use. This decision, stemming from a misunderstanding of the Delica’s size and capabilities, has sparked frustration among owners.
A letter sent by the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) states that the Delica’s title is incorrect and that it must be registered as an off-road vehicle. The MDOS claims this classification aligns with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA)’s view of mini trucks. However, this classification is incorrect.
Michigan is treating the Mitsubishi Delica as if it is the same size as a kei car which is not true.
The MDOS’s stance is baffling, considering the Delica’s size. Both the older Delica Star Wagon (pictured above) and the Space Gear models are comparable to modern minivans, such as a Chrysler Pacifica or Toyota Sienna.
The MDOS provides examples of “similar” mini trucks and micro vans, which is incorrect. They include the Suzuki Carry, Subaru Sambar, Honda ACTY, Mazda Scrum, and Daihatsu Hijet. All those vehicles are kei cars, the Delica is not.
What about the 25-Year Rule?
While the 25-year import rule allows the import of vehicles older than 25 years, the MDOS stresses that registration is up to each state’s discretion. The MDOS determines the Delica should be titled as off-road only.
This is a critical distinction. The Delica doesn’t fit the “mini truck” label which is the root of the problem.
Why the Delica?
Other JDM vehicles are not being targeted like the Delica. This includes Toyota Hiace vans and Mazda Bongo vans, and other gray-market vehicles like Land Rovers, Nissan Skylines, or other vehicles, that aren’t kei vehicles, are fine.
In this latest instance, it seems like Michigan simply doesn’t know what a Delica actually is. The state’s misidentification of the Delica highlights the need for a better understand of these vehicles and their road capabilities.
