Gas-saving work animals, in reality, Japanese mini trucks (called “Kei”, “Keitora” or “micro” trucks) are imported directly from Japan. Most feature 660cc engines and 4-wheel drive and are actually diminutive, but very practical pickup trucks. Each mini truck is about 11 ft. (3.4m) long with a usual box size of 6 ft.-4 in. (1.95m) in length. Such mini trucks from Japan can haul almost half a ton. Offered with hydraulic dumps and scissor lifts, most of these mini vehicles have fold-down box sides. Also for purchase are models with van bodies. Also, fully enclosed cabs, seat belts, windshield wipers, AM radios, heaters, lights and signals are all included features of these Japanese mini trucks. Mini trucks from Japan can accelerate to the speed of 75 miles per hour, and their average weight is 1500 pounds. Popular throughout Asia, second-hand models are now in use in the US for off-road purposes—for example, on farmland. In Canada, Japanese mini trucks are considered suitable as regular vehicular traffic after passing local certification inspections. As road vehicles, they are low-maintenance, fuel-efficient, affordable and practical. With gas mileage reports of upwards of 60 miles per gallon from some owners, Japanese mini trucks are efficient vehicles. 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.
Current makes and models of Japanese mini trucks are the result of many generations of evolving styles and designs. 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. Still available during the early seventies, this mini van lacked dynamic fashion, although its style was definitely contemporary. Later, in 1969, the Mazda Porter Cab was introduced with engine placement under the front seats. Its styling was somewhat humorous, especially its round headlamps with round cadres, resembling spectacles. 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.
