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Big Things in Small Packages: The Charm of Japan's Kei Truck


Japan’s kei cars are a common sight on the country’s streets. Today kei trucks, the hard-working cargo versions of the kei car, are increasingly seen offroad and in camping areas as users find ways to customize them for adventurous outdoor use.

While the trucks have a minimum size that allow them to maneuver easily on smaller roads, the rear cargo beds are surprisingly spacious, making these perfectly serviceable working vehicles. In addition to the lineup of specially designed cars from automobile manufacturers, there is a wide range of variations, including models with on-demand four-wheel drive and an “agricultural grade” that improves drivability on rough roads with a differential lock function to adjust the rotation difference between the left and right wheels. These bring out an all-new side of the appeal of kei trucks, pleasing design enthusiasts while still allowing free driving with a cargo bed full of equipment for fun.

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