Mini Truck FAQ

1.  What is a Mini Truck?

Mini trucks, also known as Kei trucks, belong in a category consisting of small vehicles known as Kei-jidosha. Kei means “light weight“, Jidosha means “vehicle”. Japanese regulations restrict physical size, engine displacement and power on these vehicles. Kei class vehicles are less expensive, smaller, lighter, and more fuel efficient in comparison to standard size vehicles and consist of passenger cars, vans, and mini trucks.Mini trucks are available with automatic transmissions, 2WD, 4WD, air conditioning, forced induction engines, and other standard and optional features. These fuel efficient, small, off road trucks can be used in a variety of settings and have unlimited use. Mini trucks typically measure: length 10’10”, width 4’6″ and height 5’8″ and weigh approximately 1,500 lbs.

2.  Who makes them?

The major Japanese manufacturers are Suzuki (No. 1 market share), Daihatsu – a subsidiary company of Toyota (No. 2 share), Mitsubishi (No. 3 share), Subaru, and Honda. Mazda’s model “Scrum” is manufactured by Suzuki and is practically identical to the popular “Carry”.

3.  Can I drive them anywhere?

Anywhere except on U.S. public roads. Mini trucks are not meant for public road use and are exclusively for off road use.  Some Local governments will allow limited street use of mini trucks.

4. What are the specifications?

Mini Truck Makes: Suzuki Carry Daihatsu Hijet Mitsubishi Minicab Honda Acty Subaru Sambar Mazda Scrum Engines: 3-Cylinder except for Subaru 4-Cylinder Approximately 40-45 Horse Power 660cc (550cc on 1990 and older models) Water cooled Unleaded fuel Drive Train: Manual transmissions in 4 or 5 speed w/reverse Hi-Lo transfer case or Granny gear (on some models) 4-Wheel drive or 2-Wheel drive Independent front suspension , rear solid axle & transaxle (4 independent suspension on Subaru Sambar due to the rear engine configuration) Diff lock and/or axle lock switch (on some models) Suspension: Front: strut suspension, coil springs Rear: leaf springs and shocks Steering & Operation: Right hand drive Left hand shifter, turn signal to the Right, wiper switch to the Left Standard pedal configuration with power brake Rack and pinion, (some model w/power steering) Lighting & Electrical System: Low/high beam headlights available HID on some models Turn signals Parking lights and brake lights Reverse light Dash lighting In cab light Bed light (on some models) 12-Volt solid state ignition 12-Volt battery Alternator Frame & Cab: Steel frame construction, some uni-body frame Metal body and cab Side view mirrors Rear view mirror Glass: Large windshield with wiper and washer Manual door windows, some w/power windows Rear cab window Tires & Wheels: 12″ steel wheels (stock) All-Season tires Bed: 6’x4′ Fold down sides and tail gate Removable sides and tail gate Hydraulic dump bed (on some models) 880 Lbs. bed capacity Amenities: Heater with defrost Air Conditioner (on some models) Wipers w/wash Radio (AM stock, FM, most models w/Japanese frequency) Emergency brake Glove box Ash tray w/lighter (on most models) Safety handles Door locks Key ignition Sun visors Engine access cover (in bed & under seat)

*Please Note: Mini Trucks are imported for Off-Highway Use Only*