A Kei Truck is a compact Japanese utility vehicle designed to get serious work done without taking up the space of a conventional pickup.The Daihatsu Hijet is one of Japan’s best-known Kei Trucks. Its small footprint, practical flatbed and lightweight design make it a great option for farms, estates, trades, events, private sites and plenty of other applications.
Small truck. Surprisingly useful.A Daihatsu Hijet gives you the practicality of a pickup in a much smaller package. Its compact dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre through narrow tracks, gateways, yards and event sites, while the rear flatbed gives you plenty of usable cargo space.Depending on the model and specification, features can include switchable 4WD, automatic or manual transmission and air conditioning.They’re particularly attractive to businesses looking for an alternative to traditional ATVs, UTVs and utility carts.
Kei Trucks can work across a huge range of businesses and environments, including:Farms and smallholdingsEstates and grounds maintenanceLandscapingConstruction and tradesFestivals and eventsGlamping and hospitality sitesWarehouses and industrial sitesGolf coursesProperty and facilities managementLocal deliveriesTheir size also makes them useful in places where a full-size pickup or van can feel unnecessarily large.
Current Daihatsu Hijet Kei Trucks use a compact 660cc petrol engine, designed around Japan’s Kei vehicle regulations.Don’t let the engine size fool you. These trucks were designed as working commercial vehicles and their lightweight construction makes good use of the available power.
The standard Hijet prioritises maximum load-bed space.The Hijet Jumbo has an extended cab, giving the driver and passenger more room inside along with additional storage behind the seats. In return, the main cargo bed is slightly shorter.If maximum carrying space matters most, the standard cab is usually the better fit. If you’re spending more time behind the wheel and want extra cab space, the Jumbo may suit you better.