Buy, register and export a roadster kit car abroad
Dear Forum Members,
I'm excited to be making my debut on this forum and looking forward to becoming a fellow enthusiast in the quest to build my very own FF Roadster car. Prior to posting, I delved into extensive online research but found no cases quite like mine, prompting me to reach out to this community for guidance.
Firstly, I'm based in Greece (so not a US citizen), and my passion for cars runs deep. My dream is to purchase a roadster kit and assemble it at home. However, before I invest in the kit, I conducted thorough research on the intricate process of registering such a vehicle. To cut to the chase, I discovered that Greece lacks the necessary legal framework to support the registration of homebuilt cars. The only way to do that seems to be establishing a car-making business and providing comprehensive documentation, including crash test reports and frame's welding certifications and more, which even FF couldn't furnish (I've already inquired).
My next step involves exploring the option of registering the vehicle in the United States and exporting it as a complete car, rather than as individual parts. This strategy not only streamlines the license plate procedure but also tackles another significant challenge: engine emissions. In most cases, larger engines are almost certain to fail EU emissions tests. However, they can pass if the car is imported as an antique. To illustrate, designating it as a 1965 Cobra exempts it from emissions testing, whereas a 2023 Cobra would likely fall short of the required standards.
In my pursuit of tagging the car legally, I've explored numerous strategies, such as completing the car in usa and then undergoing inspection and tagging, selecting a state with no inspection requirements, registering it with or without a VIN, forming an LLC and delegating the process to a law firm, among others.
Based on my research and considerations, I've outlined a potential scenario that suits my case:
- Establish an LLC in a state like Montana, known for not mandating inspections.
- The LLC purchases the kit directly from FF.
- Before kit delivery, engage a law firm to initiate the registration process and acquire Montana plates.
- Once the kit and plates are ready, ship everything abroad as a "fully-assembled" car, not as individual parts.
- Import the car into Greece, clear customs, and obtain Greek license plates designating it as an antique car and then build it.
For this plan to work:
- The certificate of origin should specify a 1965 roadster (as confirmed by FF).
- It should be possible to initiate the registration process before the car is fully constructed.
- Issuing a VIN in the United States should be achievable.
I want to emphasize that my intent is to adhere strictly to the law; there's no room for compromise in this regard.
Considering the above information and your collective experience, do you foresee any potential issues with these steps, or can you suggest a more effective approach?
I deeply appreciate your time and assistance in advance. I'm hopeful that with your guidance, I can overcome this hurdle and join your ranks soon!
