Vehicles with the steering wheel on the right side, commonly known as "right-hand drive" (RHD) vehicles, have been intriguing motorists in the United States for years. While the majority of vehicles in the US are left-hand drive (LHD), RHD vehicles offer a unique driving experience that has captured the attention of many. In this blog post, we'll explore what it's like to drive RHD vehicles and discuss their practicality, advantages, and potential challenges.
The Right-Hand Drive Experience
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Unique Driving Position: The most noticeable aspect of driving an RHD vehicle is the shift in your driving position. Unlike LHD vehicles, where the driver sits on the left side and operates the car from the left-hand side, RHD vehicles position the driver on the right. This difference can be an exciting change for those who want to experience driving from a different perspective.
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Visibility: RHD vehicles can provide enhanced visibility in certain situations. For example, when driving on narrow roads or during overtaking, having the driver on the right side allows for a better view of the road ahead. This can be particularly beneficial in areas with challenging road conditions.
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Imported Vehicles: Many RHD vehicles in the US are imported from countries where RHD is the standard. This includes vehicles from the UK, Japan, and Australia. Importing an RHD vehicle can be an exciting way to own a unique and exotic car that stands out from the crowd.
Advantages of RHD Vehicles
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Novelty: Driving an RHD vehicle offers a unique experience and conversation starter. It can be a fun and distinctive choice for those who enjoy being different on the road.
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Enhanced Visibility: As mentioned, RHD vehicles can provide better visibility in certain driving scenarios, which can be a safety advantage.
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Access to Imported Vehicles: If you're interested in vehicles from countries with RHD standards, such as Japan, owning an RHD vehicle allows you to access a broader range of options that may not be available as LHD versions in the US.
Challenges of RHD Vehicles
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Adaptation: Switching from driving an LHD vehicle to an RHD one requires adaptation to the different driving position. It may take some time to get used to operating the vehicle from the right side.
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Passenger Comfort: Passengers may find the seating arrangement in RHD vehicles less comfortable, as they often have less legroom compared to the driver's side.
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Limited Availability of RHD Models: While RHD vehicles can offer unique advantages, they are less common in the US. This can make finding parts and servicing the vehicle more challenging.
Driving a right-hand drive vehicle can be a thrilling and unique experience. However, it's essential to consider the potential challenges and ensure that you're comfortable with the different driving position before making the switch to RHD. If you're interested in exploring RHD vehicles, contact us at kei-trucks.com, where we can assist you in finding and importing RHD Kei trucks and other RHD vehicles from Japan to the US, allowing you to enjoy the unique experience they offer.