Japanese mini trucks have always held a special place in the hearts of Americans. These purpose-built trucks are commonly known as “kei” (light weight), “kei tora” (a variation of “kei truck”), and micro trucks. These vehicles are not only tough, reliable and versatile, but are also highly fuel efficient.
Mini trucks are commonly used as workhorses for factory yards or agriculture. Some are even fitted with tracks or half tracks, similar to those used on military tanks, to increase traction. Its small but powerful engine makes it number one in fuel efficiency, which makes them popular.
These authentic trucks are imported through the Japanese domestic market. This area must be attended to carefully because many buyers purchase them on impulse without proper inspection. These businessmen just want to make a quick buck thinking these trucks are eventually sold to clueless buyers anyway.
In their best condition, these trucks can reach a top speed of 75 miles per hour. In Japan, where city streets can be very narrow, the small size of the kei truck makes it possible to navigate traffic jams. In efficiency, they have a mileage of 60 per gallon. They typically weigh 1500lbs including the 45hp 660cc engine. 4-wheel drive capability makes them an off-road favorite. The tires have the option of regular, mud or snow. They can even be modified to fit tractor tires or off-road tires. They are air conditioning capable. They have a payload of 1200 lbs.
The owner has many options for the rear bed. They can install a rail bed if the truck will be used to transport crates, boxes and all types of cargo. Or if the loads to be transported will not fit on the rail deck, then a flat deck can be installed instead. A passenger cabin can be attached for the purpose of transporting people. Or you can opt for the van type if you want to use it as a private car.
Owning a vehicle is expensive in the Land of the Rising Sun, it’s not that the vehicles are expensive, but the fees and taxes attached to it. The owner is obliged to pay the registration fee. When parking you have to pay the shakoshomei fee. Then you have to shell out money faithfully for the annual hokken or insurance and zeiken or taxes. This does not include fees awarded to inspectors. And above all, maintaining an outdated vehicle costs more in taxes than a new one. That is why for this reason a vehicle can only drive an average of 6000 miles a year in this country.
The rules governing safety and emission control are continually changing, so the layout of this area has evolved to make the trucks smoke-free and safer for the environment.