The Japanese Mini Truck - KEI, Micro, Energy Efficient Vehicles

Imported directly from Japan, Japanese mini trucks (known as “Kei” Class, “Keitora” or “micro” trucks) are, in reality, gas-conserving work animals. Most of these admittedly very practical, but diminutive pickup trucks are equipped with 660cc engines and 4-wheel drive. Constructed to meet requirements for light vehicles in Japan, each mini truck is approximately 11 ft. (3.4m) long with a box generally measuring 6 ft.-4 in. (1.95m) in length. Such mini trucks from Japan can haul almost half a ton. The majority of these mini trucks have fold-down box sides and are available with hydraulic dumps and scissor lifts. Models with van bodies are also for sale. Also, fully enclosed cabs, seat belts, windshield wipers, AM radios, heaters, lights and signals are all included features of these Japanese mini trucks.

Japanese mini trucks weigh approximately 1500 pounds and can accelerate to a speed of 75 miles per hour. Following their passage of local certification inspections in Canada, Japanese mini trucks qualify as regular road vehicles. They are affordable, cost-effective and practical road vehicles. In terms of efficiency, some owners of Japanese mini trucks have reported gas mileage of greater than 60 miles per gallon. In the US, prices of Japanese mini trucks range from around $4,000 to $8,500, depending on whether you are interested in a new or used vehicle. A 1992 Daihatsu Hi-Jet mini truck can be bought for about USD $5,848, while a 1990 Suzuki Every Van goes for approximately USD $6,086, in the second-hand mini truck market.

Numerous generations of changing fashions and designs have culminated in the current makes and models of Japanese mini trucks. In 1959 the Kurogane KB pickup truck with a highly built rear engine was introduced. Then, in 1963 the first Honda 4-wheel vehicle was manufactured, the Honda T360, as a semi-front truck or pickup. The stylish Daihatsu Hi-Jet Cab was first seen on the 1964 market. The Cony 360 Wide with a 168 cm wheelbase, a rear rigid axle with leaf springs, and a 354 cc engine located underneath the center floor came out in 1965. Then, a van was brought out in 1966. Although lacking unique character, the styling was quite modern, and this vehicle was available through the early seventies. The Mazda Porter Cab with engine location beneath the front seats, was first shown in 1969. This mini truck’s round headlights with rounded cadres which resembled spectacles, contributed to its partially comic style. Bearing such presently recognizable and sought-after motor vehicle industry names as Mitsubishi, Diahatsu, Honda, Mazda, Suzuki and Subaru, many more makes and models of mini trucks from Japan have entered the market since then.