I've just started a new job as a mailman and was curious about getting a right hand drive mini for usa delivery (since mail carriers drive on the right side every day)? I know older vehicle aren't illegal here in the us, but was wondering if new vehicles with rhd are? thanks... just curious.

 

I think you would have to check your state laws about that. Not sure if Mini would build a car to U.S. specifications AND make it right hand drive.

 

The odds are heavily against it. This would almost be a one-off and prohibitly expensive would be my guess. Call MINI USA customer service in New Jersey for a real answer, mine is a wild guess.

 

Subaru used to make right hand drive vehicles that were avaialable to Rural carriers in the 90's.If I remember correctly there were no extra costs in the purchase of these vehicles. I don't know if Subaru still has this program. I wonder if a search on the internet would yeald a good used car at a reasonable cost. You a Rural carrier? What level? Or a star route carier? I know you guys don't make heaps of money thus I suggest a used right hand drive Subaru if available. Fnal bit of advice, stay the hell away from old PO Jeeps. These things realy are hidious.

 

This is an easy one.

Keep your LHD MINI and just do a handbrake turn at each mailbox like this!

 

Due to Federal standards, vehicle manufacturers are unable to import/sell RHD vehicles if there are "substantially similar" LHD vehicles in existence, hence the Subaru Outback, that was so popular among Rural Letter Carriers, no longer being offered here.

 

Could you purchase one from a UK dealer (or a UK citizen) and then have it shipped here?

 

Wow, that sucks for mail carriers. I know Jeep made Wranglers and Cherokees with RHD as well.

 

The way to do it is to buy from UK dealer and ship it yourself.

 

All vehicles would need to clear U. S. customs. Any RHD would be rejected outright. In addition, vehicle emissons and other safety equipment are going to be different.

 

Forgetting the cost, what would need to be changed? Steering rack, firewall, dash, pedal thing-a-ma-jiggy?

 

Would the Mini Diesel be "substantially" different enough to avoid that legislation? That's pretty darn different.

 

I agree, No way would it be permisable under current law.!

 

Customs probably would impound the car, and that would be it. Importing even't personal goods requires a broker. Even Bill Gates can bring in an uncertified car. He tried to do this with a Porsche 959 some years ago.