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Why Are American Drivers Obsessed with Japan’s Smallest Pickup Trucks?

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Why American society is crazy about Japanese small truck

Kei-trucks

The U.S. is the unrivaled hub for pickup trucks, which play a significant role in American life. One of their hallmark features is their substantial size. Even the smaller models commonly seen on the roads are quite large. For instance, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the smallest pickup truck currently sold in the U.S., measures 4,970 mm (195.7 inches) in length.

With dimensions less than half the size of the Santa Cruz, these compact trucks are considered almost miniature. Despite their small stature, Kei trucks have become trendy due to their efficiency and adaptability in navigating urban environments and performing light-duty tasks.

Cars&bids
Cars&bids

Although it cannot drive on highways, its practicality is astonishing

Kei in the Kei Truck is derived from the Japanese word “kei-jidosha,” which means light automobile. In Japan, where small cars are popular, Kei is a fundamental concept used regardless of whether the vehicle is a sedan, coupe, truck, or van. Unfortunately, this article will only cover the Kei truck.

Kei trucks may seem distant to Americans. Why did this type of truck become so popular among drivers? Due to its compact size and lightweight design, the Kei truck is not capable of high speeds, and its safety features are also limited. The maximum speed for these trucks is only about 80 mph. This might be surprising considering the recent trend in pickup trucks, which serve practical purposes and incorporate elements of family cars, offering more comfort and better performance.

Driving across the state in a Kei truck is not only physically difficult but also against the law. This is because Kei trucks are currently banned from driving on highways in all U.S. states. There are a few states where you can drive on public roads, but most only allow driving on private land. Nevertheless, the unbelievable popularity of Kei trucks can be traced to their surprising practicality.

Kei-trucks
Kei-trucks

Kei truck can go almost anywhere
This truck can access places that others cannot

This small, lightweight truck is ideal for transporting equipment within private property or driving on narrow roads. Fuel consumption is also very reasonable. Nevertheless, the loading capacity is ample. In the case of the Suzuki brand Kei truck, the carrying capacity is superior to that of the Ford Ranger. As long as the Kei truck is running on private land and not a highway, there is nothing it can’t do. For less than half the cost, there’s nothing this truck can’t do.

The Kei truck’s unique practicality stems from its tiny size. At only 58 inches wide, it is significantly narrower than the Ford Ranger and the Maverick, which measure 75 inches and 72 inches in width, respectively. This compactness might seem impractical at first glance, but it enables the Kei truck to navigate spaces inaccessible to larger pickups. Its diminutive dimensions allow it to maneuver through narrow alleys, tight parking spots, and other challenging environments where typical trucks can’t go.

Because of its compact size, its turning radius is also tiny. Conversely, its turning width of just 14 feet means it can navigate any narrow, winding road, whether a mountain path, vast pasture, or construction site. This is an important reason why the Kei truck has recently become so popular among Americans.

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