Honda has increased its stake in Yachiyo Industry — the manufacturer of its Life and Zest kei cars — to 51.14%. Previously, they held a 34.5% share. Higher fuel prices have resulted in a greatly increased demand for mincars, which receive special tax considerations from the government and combine fuel-efficiency, excellent use of space, and fairly surprising levels of equipment in remarkably compact packages at competitive prices. Continue reading Honda increases stake in kei car manufacturer