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Imported directly from Japan, Japanese mini trucks (known as “Kei” Class, “Keitora” or “micro” trucks) are, in reality, gas-conserving work animals. Most feature 660cc engines and 4-wheel drive and are actually diminutive, but very practical pickup trucks. 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. Offered with hydraulic dumps and scissor lifts, most of these mini vehicles have fold-down box sides. Models with van bodies are also for sale. In addition, these mini trucks are equipped with fully enclosed cabs, seat belts, windshield wipers, AM radios, heaters, lights and signals.

Japanese mini trucks can accelerate to the speed of 75 miles per hour, and their average weight is 1500 pounds. 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. 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.

Current makes and models of Japanese mini trucks are the result of many generations of evolving styles and designs. The Kurogane KB pickup truck sporting a high designed rear engine was first shown in 1959. 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. 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. Its styling was somewhat humorous, especially its round headlamps with round cadres, resembling spectacles. 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.