Email I recieved today

[bullitt4248]

KTA Announcement‏
From: Jeff Barnett (jeffb@consumerimports.com)
Sent: Sat 11/01/08 5:36 PM
To: Jeff Barnett (jeffb@consumerimports.com)

Dear KTA Members,



I want to thank each and every one of you for taking the first step to organize our industry!



After reading many emails and speaking with many of you over the phone, it is clear to me that I am not alone in my beliefs that ,we as an industry, must come together as a professional organization and get some control, or influence, in those places in which our future is currently being determined without our participation!



My company has been involved in International Trade since 2001. We have engaged in international business with Pakistan, Malaysia, Taiwan, South Korea, China and Japan. These countries, and many others, have signed Trade Agreements with the United States, which makes it possible for U.S. Importers to conduct business across these international lines. With the Internet blurring the lines of international communications and, the loose controls of sourcing these trucks, many unqualified people have got involved with this commodity either through direct importation or dealer brokering.



It is the responsibility of any U.S. Importer to fully understand the requirements of his government, and to accurately convey those requirements for action to his Exporter. When an Exporter fails to meet those requirements, the Importer faces high risk should his container be inspected. In the case of Japanese Kei trucks, they originally entered the country as motor vehicles. That was short lived as government agencies felt they did not meet certain standards. It was at that time that an Importer discovered it was possible to change the classification of motor vehicle by meeting 1 of 3 modifications. That modification was to speed limit the vehicles to 25Mph or less and thereby change the classification to a non-road vehicle. Since that time, these vehicles have been allowed to enter the United States under tariff 8709.19.0030 and avoid a 25% duty which imported motor vehicles face. Each speed limited vehicle is compliant under EPA 40CFR85.1703(a).



Since the classification change, everyone began to catch on that a certain method of speed limiting was acceptable to qualify. Many Importers began conveying this information to a variety of Japanese Exporters and many Exporters learned they too could take advantage of the U.S. market by performing this modification. However, many are not meeting the specification of this modification and the EPA and U.S. Customs has been aware of this. This is the number one reason why containers are routinely turned back at the Importers expense.



My point in sharing this information is that I want you to understand that there are regulations which must be followed. As you know, another issue which has hurt us, is that many owners have attempted to license their Kei truck which clearly, was not the intention of several government agencies. In addition, several states have legalized the trucks which, does not help our cause. We can argue the issue of state versus federal all day, but I won’t delve into that in this email today. However, this too will be an issue which will have to be dealt with sooner or later. Although I don’t see that as our responsibility, I think by working with these government agencies can help our cause!



We have a lot of work ahead of us folks, so be ready. We must conduct our organization in a professional manner and we must forge new relationships with several government agencies. In addition, we must raise our own funds to retain legal council and coordinate efforts on Capitol Hill.



So let us begin by setting up a board. Keep in mind that our board will be involved in managing many efforts and we will work together as a management team. While I have a rough roadmap, it is obvious that I cannot do it alone and thus, need to begin forming the board.



I would like your comments on the following recommendations for our board members. Please keep in mind that this pertains only to Board Members.



REQUIREMENTS



Each Board member should have a minimum 1 year experience in either the importation of, or dealership of Japanese Kei trucks.
Each Board member will have certain responsibilities such as managing a particular government relationship.
Each Board member will have Internet and email capability and also be reachable by phone.
Each Board member will conduct themselves in a professional manner in member dealings, agency dealings or any other which represent the association.
Each Board member should be willing to travel to Washington DC with appropriate notice.
Each Board member must commit to holding the position for one year after which time annual member voting will be held


I think these basic requirements are a reasonable expectation for those who are committed and choose to serve on the board.



I have obtained a domain name (AmericanKTA.com) and am working to complete a web site very soon. In addition, I will create KTA email addresses for each Board member.



At this time, I would like to hear from each of you in regards to your interest in joining the board.



I look forward to your responses.



Best regards,





Jeff Barnett

Consumer Imports, LLC.

Office: (972) 359-8137

Cell: (469) 247-5681

Truck Exports: http://www.MiniTruckExports.com

Truck Parts: http://wwwMiniTruckSupply.com

[Mid America Mini Trucks]

Hopefully if we do have a lull in the EPA's drive to limit this we can et some recognition as an industry spokesman and get some favorable rulings in our favor. Lets not forget guys and gals, more than likely none of these people making the rulings has had ANY experience with the KEI class of vehicles and in my experience with dealing with EPA will probably welcome the input May not help a whole lot however we need and now are starting to have a voice.

I realize the Jeff Barnett, MINI TRUCK EXPORTER, is coming out of his own pocket to start the ball rolling. Not as a grandstand play or anything, I would like to donate $50.00 to start out with to help defray setup costs. We build lift kits and other accessories for the KEI trucks and of course am anxious to see the industry prosper and grow. I would encourage each of you to send something to help now while we are in the process of forming. Be it $5.00 or $500.00 whatever you feel you can afford. This is NOT a group to be limited to importers, exporters, dealers and shops catering to these vehicles but also for the guy that enjoys his truck and wants to show his support. After talking with Jeff, I can assure you that this group will be transparent with its dealings including finances with any monies collected to be accounted for appropriately

Give our sport a boost Join today
Chuck

1991 Subaru Sambar
1998 Volkswagen TDI
2003 Audi Cabriolet
Years of experience in the chemical industry dealing with both federal and state EPA regulators for what it is worth!

[chickendumpling]

KTA:

What can the consumer/buyer do?

We need a consumer packet to promote the knowledge to us and State, Local government.

The fallout from this was created in many areas...

As a potential buyer trying to figure this out - the information is flip flopping all over the place. Importers are suddently swapping practices on the fly and trying to place incorrect blame. That adds to confusion and fustration - even questions honesty. I would question some of those importers even being in an association.

I understand things are in the early stages...please do not forget those who were, are, and could be buyers of the KEI truck.

Even if I could donate some money ... I would!

Sincerely,

Norm
Aberdeen, SD

[bullitt4248]

Now don't get mad but , First posters here referred to "Kevin" as doing all the work to form a association. Whats his vested interest?

Now emails are sent out by J.B.Consumerimports Inc. basically looking like he's now behind forming KTA !

I guess I am new and maybe just don't know everyone yet but - who's actually doing what at this time?

I have been totally "Transparent" on my end - offered free help - started building websites - contacting owners and sellers - I have even visited and spent time with dealers - not to help me but to learn more and promote the industry.

I assume from some of the responses I read - I will probably soon be restricted from commenting here soon. Do you honestly think a "Association" lead by "Owners of Dealerships" is going to equally/ fairly represent those who have/will be buying them(Mini Trucks) for personal use?

Please , your action is needed - but being "Allowed" to be a dues paying member and not being able to be on the "Board" is some what "Elitist" don't you think?

Just my thoughts and also some others who have emailed me.



:cool:

[canadian1]

KTA:

What can the consumer/buyer do?

We need a consumer packet to promote the knowledge to us and State, Local government.

The fallout from this was created in many areas...

As a potential buyer trying to figure this out - the information is flip flopping all over the place. Importers are suddently swapping practices on the fly and trying to place incorrect blame. That adds to confusion and fustration - even questions honesty. I would question some of those importers even being in an association.

I understand things are in the early stages...please do not forget those who were, are, and could be buyers of the KEI truck.

Even if I could donate some money ... I would!

Sincerely,

Norm
Aberdeen, SD

than you should become a paying member

[canadian1]

Now don't get mad but , First posters here referred to "Kevin" as doing all the work to form a association. Whats his vested interest?

Now emails are sent out by J.B.Consumerimports Inc. basically looking like he's now behind forming KTA !

I guess I am new and maybe just don't know everyone yet but - who's actually doing what at this time?

I have been totally "Transparent" on my end - offered free help - started building websites - contacting owners and sellers - I have even visited and spent time with dealers - not to help me but to learn more and promote the industry.

I assume from some of the responses I read - I will probably soon be restricted from commenting here soon. Do you honestly think a "Association" lead by "Owners of Dealerships" is going to equally/ fairly represent those who have/will be buying them(Mini Trucks) for personal use?

Please , your action is needed - but being "Allowed" to be a dues paying member and not being able to be on the "Board" is some what "Elitist" don't you think?

Just my thoughts and also some others who have emailed me.



:cool:

first: i do not see where you are a paying member.
second: as you stated; you have had to contact dealers;sellers;owners and others to obtain any info. that is why we need experience for board members. people who have personally been involved for a resonable amt. of time. i do not think one yr. is unreasonable. why are you so set on being a board member?

[Badgerland]

Posting this twice because of this new area...
I feel that active participation from everyone in this campaign is critically important. I just wanted to visit some of the early stated requirements from Jeff's email:

REQUIREMENTS

Each Board member should have a minimum 1 year experience in either the importation of, or dealership of Japanese Kei trucks.
I am also a relatively new dealer in this respect and do not necessarily agree with this ruling from all standpoints. While it makes perfect sense from the side of experience, you could also view this as the new, responsible dealers have not learned the bad habits/shady practices and "wrong ways" of doing things that some of the "experienced" dealers have (which has certainly contributed to the EPA's invlovement). This is a very opinionated rule and is subject to interpretation.

Each Board member will have certain responsibilities such as managing a particular government relationship.
Agreed

Each Board member will have Internet and email capability and also be reachable by phone.
Agreed

Each Board member will conduct themselves in a professional manner in member dealings, agency dealings or any other which represent the association.
Agreed (and critical to our existance as an organized group and voice)

Each Board member should be willing to travel to Washington DC with appropriate notice.
We should re-visit this one... a certain select handful of experienced representatives should be "doing the talking" for our group to ensure that our presence is properly represented

Each Board member must commit to holding the position for one year after which time annual member voting will be held
Agreed that we need a solid committment... but we also need an internal method of policing ourselves with checks & balances.

As things sit, I am not currently qualified as a potential board member. While that is not critical to me, it might be to others that are new dealers and bring alot to the table. I certainly have skills that I can offer to this group collectively. Maybe we should consider another classification of contributing members that are NOT board members.

Thoughts???

[bullitt4248]

first: i do not see where you are a paying member.
second: as you stated; you have had to contact dealers;sellers;owners and others to obtain any info. that is why we need experience for board members. people who have personally been involved for a resonable amt. of time. i do not think one yr. is unreasonable. why are you so set on being a board member?

Paying "Member" of what - are you ?

Didn't you "research" your product and supply lines , consumers before you bought your first Mini Truck ?

I don't care if I am a "Board Member" or not ! It won't change my efforts one way or another.

Why are you and a handful of others so "Protective" that the lack of inclusion could end up hurting everyone?

You should be thanking me and anyone else who is offering to get involved - not insulting us and then saying,"Just send dues and listen to Us"

When another poster asks - "What can we do" - you say, " than you should become a paying member
" - didn't every owner/future owner make a "Investment" already?

Comments like those tend to expose your attitudes a little more than you might want to!


No Offense - No Insult - Just responding in kind !


Lets be friends !
:)

[chickendumpling]

I'm not sure where to make a donation to the collective advancement of the industry. I am not a importer, exporter, or dealer. Like to be an owner of a mini truck.

There is a donation link for this forum. Which, I can freely choose to take part in or not.

As far as I can gather, the KTA needs to form first etc. I respect their priorities. I would choose to donate to the process that will help everyone keep the trucks here and increase there use.

Regards,

Norm

[kmoneil]

Now don't get mad but , First posters here referred to "Kevin" as doing all the work to form a association. Whats his vested interest?


I don't where this is posted, but I'm not one that started the KTA and I'm not the one doing all the work. I never stated that I was doing all the work.

I would like to see the KTA use the forum as there #1 source for mini trucks. I'm helping out where ever I can.

Also, I'm not a mini truck dealer / importer. Another thing is that from what I know about the KTA, its not even formed yet so you can't donate or pay member dues.

Forum member here donate to Minitrucktalk.com to keep the site running.

If you having any more questions relating to the forum I would glade to help you, but if you need more information on the KTA, you will need to contact Jeff.

[bullitt4248]

My point again was to "Inform" - some people thought that "KTA" was your idea.

If Mr.Jeff B. of Consumerimports Inc is the "Associations" driving force - that should be made clear to all.

This site is the premier site for "Minitrucktalk."

Your explaining that donating here, on this site - is to support "This site." Is a testament to your integrity.

People are getting protective when there is no need to be. The issue is "Taking Action" - I am doing that - with my own money and for two reasons -

1) To help promote recreational use of "Mini Trucks" and showcase end users on my sites. Which hopefully will be supported in the long term by advertisers.

2) To also be apart of the "Resellers Chain" with my own small resales location. Its what I call - "Retirement Fun" -

That said - I welcome anyone on any level - Importers , Exporters, sales agents , ATV owners , UTV owners,Motorcycle owners , Snow sled owners and enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor motoring to join in and be heard.

Even if you don't own anything - write a "Nice" letter to your State and Federal Reps and let them know you care about your "Freedoms" - whether its just unrestricted access to green space or log rolling - no "Government Agency" supported by tax-dollars should be restricting "Tax-payers" involvement.



:frustration:

[canadian1]

Paying "Member" of what - are you ?

Didn't you "research" your product and supply lines , consumers before you bought your first Mini Truck ?

I don't care if I am a "Board Member" or not ! It won't change my efforts one way or another.

Why are you and a handful of others so "Protective" that the lack of inclusion could end up hurting everyone?

You should be thanking me and anyone else who is offering to get involved - not insulting us and then saying,"Just send dues and listen to Us"

When another poster asks - "What can we do" - you say, " than you should become a paying member
" - didn't every owner/future owner make a "Investment" already?

Comments like those tend to expose your attitudes a little more than you might want to!


No Offense - No Insult - Just responding in kind !


Lets be friends !
:)

i'm talking about a paying member of minitrucktalk. i think you said in an early thread you were a paying member. a paying member of what? is what i am asking.

[Super Mini Trucks]

Jeff in your Defense & ??

This guy is right on in his statements regarding the import of the K Trucks.
Sounds well educated. If others had been as wise & dealt or continue to deal with the issues differently then we will have a minute chance.

Sorry I was not aware that the KTA even existed (too busy)
Sounds like a good idea but good ideas come from usually First, neccessity, then Greed , & corruption. A corparation has Board members & officers, but must answer to the shareholders. Great for business but not a organization whom is to be open. Tough sale in todays climate. There must be checks & balances or else you have a socialist, elitist type scenaro. My advice is to have a fair & balanced board, although I dispise the far left, they too I hope are Americans & have a opinion, but typically they get us in trouble. Thank God for the Conservatives to check this but we need to see the whole picture to truly have a valid opinion. Hard to support both sides without standing on someones toes. Or as one wise man said " Be careful of whom you step on or over going up the ladder for you may have to pass them going back down."
Sounds like if you are going to get anything done one way or another you are going to have to pick sides, make a stand for it & rally support. You will have to have a liberal pusher guy there for the forced license idea, but we all know changes will not be brought from breaking the law, history is now speaking again regarding this.

I am going to continue to support the legal importation of the Minitrucks as an Off-Road limited use vehicle,but am no longer very optimistic about there future, thanks to those who were either mis or not fully informed.

Typical scenaro for two opposing sides with similar agendas. Both loose because they were not united by the bigger picture with checks & balances not considered by all.
There will be to many opinions to each have a seat on this board, thus you have a Board who is elected to serve the needs of those it serves. Listens to all concerns but makes a call on what is best for the Majority, and acts in the best stance for it's charter. Start with the charter.

Regards, Mike

[canadian1]

Jeff in your Defense & ??

This guy is right on in his statements regarding the import of the K Trucks.
Sounds well educated. If others had been as wise & dealt or continue to deal with the issues differently then we will have a minute chance.

Sorry I was not aware that the KTA even existed (too busy)
Sounds like a good idea but good ideas come from usually First, neccessity, then Greed , & corruption. A corparation has Board members & officers, but must answer to the shareholders. Great for business but not a organization whom is to be open. Tough sale in todays climate. There must be checks & balances or else you have a socialist, elitist type scenaro. My advice is to have a fair & balanced board, although I dispise the far left, they too I hope are Americans & have a opinion, but typically they get us in trouble. Thank God for the Conservatives to check this but we need to see the whole picture to truly have a valid opinion. Hard to support both sides without standing on someones toes. Or as one wise man said " Be careful of whom you step on or over going up the ladder for you may have to pass them going back down."
Sounds like if you are going to get anything done one way or another you are going to have to pick sides, make a stand for it & rally support. You will have to have a liberal pusher guy there for the forced license idea, but we all know changes will not be brought from breaking the law, history is now speaking again regarding this.

I am going to continue to support the legal importation of the Minitrucks as an Off-Road limited use vehicle,but am no longer very optimistic about there future, thanks to those who were either mis or not fully informed.

Typical scenaro for two opposing sides with similar agendas. Both loose because they were not united by the bigger picture with checks & balances not considered by all.
There will be to many opinions to each have a seat on this board, thus you have a Board who is elected to serve the needs of those it serves. Listens to all concerns but makes a call on what is best for the Majority, and acts in the best stance for it's charter. Start with the charter.

Regards, Mike

what thread is this in reference to?

[canadian1]

what thread is this in reference to?

what we need is for everyone to contact their congressmen and senators to draw up and sponsor a bill. than we need to put our monies with the lobbyist in order to get the bill passed.

[tmikewww]

happy New Year

[Mini Truck Exporter]

Jeff in your Defense & ??

This guy is right on in his statements regarding the import of the K Trucks.
Sounds well educated. If others had been as wise & dealt or continue to deal with the issues differently then we will have a minute chance.

Sorry I was not aware that the KTA even existed (too busy)
Sounds like a good idea but good ideas come from usually First, neccessity, then Greed , & corruption. A corparation has Board members & officers, but must answer to the shareholders. Great for business but not a organization whom is to be open. Tough sale in todays climate. There must be checks & balances or else you have a socialist, elitist type scenaro. My advice is to have a fair & balanced board, although I dispise the far left, they too I hope are Americans & have a opinion, but typically they get us in trouble. Thank God for the Conservatives to check this but we need to see the whole picture to truly have a valid opinion. Hard to support both sides without standing on someones toes. Or as one wise man said " Be careful of whom you step on or over going up the ladder for you may have to pass them going back down."
Sounds like if you are going to get anything done one way or another you are going to have to pick sides, make a stand for it & rally support. You will have to have a liberal pusher guy there for the forced license idea, but we all know changes will not be brought from breaking the law, history is now speaking again regarding this.

I am going to continue to support the legal importation of the Minitrucks as an Off-Road limited use vehicle,but am no longer very optimistic about there future, thanks to those who were either mis or not fully informed.

Typical scenaro for two opposing sides with similar agendas. Both loose because they were not united by the bigger picture with checks & balances not considered by all.
There will be to many opinions to each have a seat on this board, thus you have a Board who is elected to serve the needs of those it serves. Listens to all concerns but makes a call on what is best for the Majority, and acts in the best stance for it's charter. Start with the charter.

Regards, Mike

Mike,

I'll be brief.

First, thank you for your comments and constructive statements. I agree!

This mess we find our industry in can be summarized quite easily. "Bad Business Ethics". The importation of these trucks were halted once before and thanks to some keen people, a proposal was submitted to the EPA of which a "Determination" was made.

The vehicles could resume importation and, avoid a 25% duty by following a few simple ground rules (i.e. Regulations).
1. Speed limit to 25 Mph or less per the specification in the proposal.
2. Classified as "Off-Road Use Only" vehicles for non-road use in the USA
3. Removal of foreign soil.

That's it. It was that simple! But, there were no controls put in place and our freedom allows for anybody and their brother to get involved, and they did. The kind of brother who you just know is going to do something sooner or later he shouldn't be doing.

We will see where our efforts take us!