CO HB1281

Creates a legal definition for "kei vehicles" in Colorado as imported vehicles with engines of 1,000cc or less (or electric motors of 56,000 watts or less), maximum dimensions of 67 inches wide by 140 inches long, enclosed passenger cabs, four or more wheels, top speeds of at least 50 mph, and that were either 25+ years old when imported or are 25+ years old with a prior U.S. title

Restricts kei vehicles from roadways with speed limits greater than 55 mph and from limited-access highways, with violations classified as Class B traffic infractions

Exempts kei vehicles from dynamometer emissions testing, requiring instead a two-speed idle test based on the vehicle's original model year standards

Establishes a separate "kei off-road vehicle" category for similar imported vehicles that do not meet the 25-year age requirement, classified as powersports vehicles

Shields licensed dealers from liability for damages attributable to selling kei vehicles not manufactured to U.S. federal safety standards; effective July 1, 2027, applying to applications and offenses on or after January 1, 2028