Japanese Kei Tora

Americans have always had a special interest in the Japanese mini trucks. These specifically designed trucks are commonly referred to as “kei” (light weight), “kei tora” (a variation of “kei truck”), and micro trucks. These aren't only tough, reliable, and versatile, but also are very efficient in fuel economy.

Mini trucks are used as workhorses for factory yards or farming. Some are even equipped with treads or half-tracks, somewhat like those being used in military tanks, for increased traction. Their small but powerful engine makes it number one in fuel efficiency which makes them popular.

These authentic trucks are imported thru the Japanese domestic market. This area needs to be carefully attended to because many buyers acquire them upon impulse without proper inspection. These businessmen just want to make a quick buck thinking that these trucks are finally sold to clueless buyers anyway.

These trucks can reach a top speed of 75 miles per hour in their prime condition. The kei trucks small size makes it possible to weave thru traffic jams in Japan where city streets can be very narrow. On efficiency, they have a mileage of 60 for every gallon. They usually weigh 1500 lbs including the 660 cc 45 hp engine. The 4-wheel drive capability makes them an off-road favorite. Tires have the option of regular, mud, or snow. They can even be modified to accommodate tractor tires or all-terrain tires. They are capable of air conditioning. 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 is to be used for carrying crates, boxes, and all types of cargo. Or if the loads to be transported would not fit the rail bed, then a flat bed can be installed instead. A passenger cab can be attached for the purposes of shuttling people. You can opt for the van type if you want to use it as a private car.

Owning a vehicle is costly in the Land of the Rising Sun not that vehicles are expensive but the fees & taxes appended to it. The owner is obliged to pay the shaken or registration fee. You have to pay the shakoshomei fee when parking. You have to faithfully shell out money for the annual hokken or insurance and zeiken or taxes. Fees given to inspectors are not included. To top it all off, maintaining a dated vehicle costs more tax than a new one. For this reason a vehicle can only be driven an average of 6000 mi a year in this country.

Rules that govern safety & emission control are being reworked continually, thus the design for this area have evolved making the trucks smoke-free & safer for the environment.