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. The hauling capacity of such Japanese mini trucks is nearly half a ton. The majority of these mini trucks have fold-down box sides and are available with hydraulic dumps and scissor lifts. Also for purchase are models with van bodies. In addition, these mini trucks are equipped with fully enclosed cabs, seat belts, windshield wipers, AM radios, heaters, lights and signals.
With used models currently employed off-road in the US, such as on farms, mini trucks are used extensively in Asia. Following their passage of local certification inspections in Canada, Japanese mini trucks qualify as regular road vehicles. As road vehicles, they are low-maintenance, fuel-efficient, affordable and practical. In terms of efficiency, some owners of Japanese mini trucks have reported gas mileage of greater than 60 miles per gallon. According to your choice of a new or used vehicle, US prices for Japanese mini trucks range from about $4,000 to $8,500. In the used mini truck market, a 1990 Suzuki Every Van is priced at around USD $6,086, while a 1992 Daihatsu Hi-Jet mini truck sells for approximately USD $5,848.
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. The Honda T360, a semi-front truck or pickup, came out in 1963 as the first Honda 4-wheel vehicle. The stylish Daihatsu Hi-Jet Cab was first seen on the 1964 market. In 1965, the Cony 360 Wide entered the market with a wheelbase of 168 cm, a rear rigid axle with leaf springs, and an engine of 354 cc located beneath the center floor. 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. Later, in 1969, the Mazda Porter Cab was introduced with engine placement under the front seats. This mini truck’s round headlights with rounded cadres which resembled spectacles, contributed to its partially comic style. Since that time, many additional makes and models of Japanese mini trucks have been introduced to the modern road vehicle market, with such major and currently popular manufacturers’ names as Mitsubishi, Diahatsu, Honda, Mazda, Suzuki and Subaru.
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