If you’ve ever wondered about the different body styles of Kei trucks, this article is here to satisfy your curiosity. From compact pickups to microvans, Kei trucks offer a diverse range of options that cater to various needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle for urban deliveries or a reliable workhorse for off-road adventures, there’s a Kei truck body style that will meet your requirements. So, let’s take a closer look at the fascinating world of Kei truck body styles and explore the possibilities that these pint-sized powerhouses have to offer. Kei trucks, also known as Kei-class trucks, are a popular choice in Japan and other countries for their compact size and versatility. These trucks are classified under the Kei class, which sets regulations for vehicle size and engine displacement. One of the major advantages of Kei trucks is their ability to accommodate a wide range of body styles, making them suitable for various purposes and industries. In this article, we will explore the different body styles of Kei trucks and delve into the features and functions of each option.
1. Regular cab
The regular cab is the most common and basic body style of Kei trucks. It offers a single row of seating and a cargo bed at the rear. This type of Kei truck is ideal for everyday tasks and light-duty applications. The compact size of the regular cab makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, making it a popular choice for urban areas.
1.1 Mini pickup
The mini pickup variant of the regular cab Kei truck is specifically designed for transporting goods and materials. It features an open cargo bed at the rear, allowing easy loading and unloading of items. The mini pickup can be used for a variety of purposes, such as delivering goods, hauling equipment, or even as a mobile workstation for small businesses.
1.2 Flatbed truck
The flatbed truck body style of Kei trucks offers a flat and open cargo area, without any side walls or roof. This design allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo, especially for oversized or irregularly shaped items. Flatbed trucks are commonly used in construction, landscaping, and agriculture industries, where the ability to transport bulk materials or heavy machinery is essential.
1.3 Dump truck
The dump truck variant of the regular cab Kei truck is equipped with a hydraulic lifting mechanism that allows the cargo bed to tilt and dump its contents. This feature is especially useful for transporting loose materials, such as sand, gravel, or debris. Dump trucks are commonly used in construction sites, road maintenance, and other applications that require efficient dumping of materials.
1.4 Box truck
The box truck body style of Kei trucks features an enclosed cargo area with walls and a roof. This design provides protection and security for the transported goods, making it suitable for delicate or valuable items. Box trucks are commonly used for delivery services, logistics, and transportation of goods that require temperature control or protection from the weather.
2. Extended cab
The extended cab body style of Kei trucks offers a slightly larger cabin space, accommodating a second row of seating. This provides additional passenger capacity or the flexibility to store tools and equipment inside the vehicle. Extended cab Kei trucks are suitable for businesses that require both transportation of goods and personnel.
2.1 Mini pickup
Similar to the regular cab variant, the extended cab mini pickup offers an open cargo bed at the rear. The extended cab allows for the inclusion of a small seating area behind the front row, providing additional space for passengers or storage of tools and equipment.
2.2 Flatbed truck
The extended cab flatbed truck retains the same features as the regular cab variant, with the addition of an extended cabin. This provides the flexibility to carry more passengers or store additional equipment or tools securely in the cabin area.
2.3 Dump truck
The extended cab dump truck offers the same functionality as the regular cab dump truck. The extended cabin allows for the transportation of more personnel or storage of tools and equipment. This makes the extended cab dump truck a versatile choice for construction or landscaping projects that require the movement of both materials and crew members.
2.4 Box truck
The extended cab box truck provides the same level of cargo security and weather protection as the regular cab box truck. The extended cabin adds the convenience of accommodating more passengers or equipment, making it suitable for businesses that require both transportation of goods and personnel.
3. Crew cab
The crew cab body style of Kei trucks offers the most spacious cabin, with a full second row of seating. This provides ample space for passengers, making it an excellent choice for businesses that require the transportation of both goods and a larger crew.
3.1 Mini pickup
The crew cab mini pickup combines the practicality of a pickup truck with the spaciousness of a crew cab. It offers a versatile solution for businesses that need to transport both goods and crew members. The crew cab mini pickup allows for the storage of tools and equipment in the rear cargo bed, while providing comfortable seating for the crew in the cabin.
3.2 Flatbed truck
The crew cab flatbed truck offers the same benefits as the regular cab and extended cab variants, with the addition of a larger cabin space. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses that require the transportation of both crew members and bulk materials. The crew cab flatbed truck can accommodate more passengers and provide a secure storage area for tools and equipment.
3.3 Dump truck
The crew cab dump truck is designed for applications that require the movement of both materials and a larger crew. The crew cab provides comfortable seating for additional workers while maintaining the functionality of the dump truck body style. This allows for efficient transportation of both personnel and loose materials, making it a valuable asset for construction and landscaping projects.
3.4 Box truck
The crew cab box truck offers the same level of cargo security and weather protection as the regular cab and extended cab variants. The spacious cabin of the crew cab allows for the transportation of a larger crew and provides a comfortable and safe environment during transit. The crew cab box truck is suitable for businesses that require the transportation of both goods and personnel, such as delivery services or mobile offices.
4. Van body
The van body style of Kei trucks provides a fully enclosed cargo area, offering maximum protection and security for goods. Vans are commonly used in various industries, from delivery services to passenger transportation.
4.1 Panel van
The panel van variant of the van body style provides a blank canvas for businesses to customize according to their specific needs. The fully enclosed cargo area allows for the transportation of goods that require protection from the elements or privacy. Panel vans are commonly used by contractors, tradespeople, and logistics companies for the transportation of tools, equipment, or valuable goods.
4.2 Microbus
The microbus body style of Kei trucks provides a versatile solution for both cargo and passenger transportation. It features a seating area in the rear that can be configured to carry passengers or converted into a cargo space. Microbuses are commonly used for public transportation, shuttle services, or as mobile offices for businesses.
4.3 Ambulance
The ambulance variant of the van body style is specially designed to provide emergency medical services. It features customized medical equipment, storage compartments, and increased headroom to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient during transportation. Ambulances based on Kei trucks are commonly used in rural areas where maneuverability is essential.
4.4 Refrigerated van
The refrigerated van body style is designed for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, such as perishable food items or pharmaceuticals. It features insulation and a built-in refrigeration system to maintain the desired temperature inside the cargo area. Refrigerated vans are commonly used by supermarkets, restaurants, and pharmaceutical companies for the delivery of goods that require refrigeration or freezing.
5. Kei truck with a canopy
The canopy body style of Kei trucks provides a versatile solution that combines the benefits of an enclosed cargo area with the flexibility of an open-bed truck. The canopy offers protection from the elements while still allowing easy loading and unloading of goods.
5.1 Mini pickup with canopy
The mini pickup with canopy is a compact option that provides an enclosed cargo area at the rear. The canopy protects the goods from the weather, making it suitable for businesses that require the transportation of items that are sensitive to rain or direct sunlight. The mini pickup with canopy is commonly used for flower deliveries, small-scale cargo transportation, or service vehicles for tradespeople.
5.2 Flatbed truck with canopy
The flatbed truck with canopy offers the versatility of an open cargo area with the added benefit of weather protection. The canopy provides shelter for transported goods while still allowing easy access for loading and unloading. This makes the flatbed truck with canopy ideal for businesses that require the transportation of bulky or irregularly shaped items that need protection from the elements.
5.3 Dump truck with canopy
The dump truck with canopy combines the functionality of the dump truck body style with the added benefit of a canopy for weather protection. It allows for efficient transportation of loose materials while keeping them shielded from rain or direct sunlight. The dump truck with canopy is commonly used in construction, agriculture, or landscaping applications where keeping the materials dry and protected is essential.
5.4 Box truck with canopy
The box truck with canopy provides the benefits of an enclosed cargo area and weather protection. The canopy allows for easy loading and unloading of goods, while protecting them from rain or extreme temperatures. This body style is commonly used for businesses that require the transportation of delicate or valuable items, such as art galleries, electronics distributors, or event management companies.
6. Kei truck with a camper
The camper body style of Kei trucks offers a compact and versatile solution for outdoor enthusiasts or individuals who prefer to have a mobile living space. These trucks feature a cabin that is specially designed for recreational purposes, providing amenities for comfortable living while on the move.
6.1 Mini pickup with camper
The mini pickup with camper combines the practicality of a pickup truck with the convenience of a small living space. The camper cabin typically includes a bed, seating area, storage compartments, and basic amenities such as a stove and sink. Mini pickups with campers are popular among campers, outdoor enthusiasts, or individuals who enjoy traveling and need a compact living space.
6.2 Flatbed truck with camper
The flatbed truck with camper offers a spacious living space on a larger platform compared to the mini pickup variant. The additional space allows for the inclusion of more amenities and storage options, making it suitable for longer trips or individuals who require a more comfortable living space. Flatbed trucks with campers are commonly used for extended camping trips or as mobile homes for individuals who prefer a nomadic lifestyle.
6.3 Dump truck with camper
The dump truck with camper combines the functionality of the dump truck body style with the convenience of a camper cabin. This combination allows for the transportation of both materials and the necessary living space for extended stays in remote areas. The dump truck with camper is an excellent choice for individuals who require both a reliable work vehicle and accommodations for outdoor adventures.
6.4 Box truck with camper
The box truck with camper offers the largest living space among Kei truck camper variants. The enclosed box area provides ample room for a comfortable living space, including amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. This body style is a great option for individuals or families who prefer a more spacious and convenient living space during their travels.
7. Kei truck with a stake bed
The stake bed body style of Kei trucks combines the benefits of an open cargo area with the added flexibility of removable side stakes. This design allows for easy loading and unloading of goods and provides a secure attachment point for securing cargo during transportation.
7.1 Mini pickup with stake bed
The mini pickup with stake bed offers a compact option for businesses that require the transportation of goods that are larger than the cargo bed. The removable side stakes allow for the secure attachment of extenders or frames that can accommodate oversized or irregularly shaped items. Mini pickups with stake beds are commonly used in the construction industry for the transportation of long building materials, such as pipes, lumber, or metal rods.
7.2 Flatbed truck with stake bed
The flatbed truck with stake bed provides a larger cargo area compared to the mini pickup variant. The removable side stakes allow for the secure attachment of extenders or frames, providing flexibility for transporting bulk materials or oversized items. Flatbed trucks with stake beds are commonly used in the agriculture industry for the transportation of crops, livestock, or farming equipment.
7.3 Dump truck with stake bed
The dump truck with stake bed combines the functionality of the dump truck body style with the flexibility of a stake bed. The removable side stakes allow for easy loading and unloading of loose materials, while the dump feature provides efficient dumping of the cargo. Dump trucks with stake beds are commonly used in the construction, landscaping, or agriculture industries for the transportation and dumping of materials.
7.4 Box truck with stake bed
The box truck with stake bed offers the added benefit of an enclosed cargo area with the flexibility of a stake bed. The removable side stakes allow for securing cargo and provide flexibility for loading and unloading. This body style is commonly used for businesses that require the transportation of goods that need protection from the elements, such as perishable food items or fragile goods.
8. Kei truck with a refrigerated box
The refrigerated box body style of Kei trucks provides a fully enclosed and temperature-controlled cargo area, ensuring the preservation of perishable goods. This body style is commonly used in the transportation of food items, pharmaceuticals, or any other goods that require a specific temperature range.
8.1 Mini pickup with refrigerated box
The mini pickup with refrigerated box is a compact solution for businesses that require the transportation of perishable goods. The refrigerated box ensures that the cargo remains at the desired temperature, protecting it from spoilage. Mini pickups with refrigerated boxes are commonly used by grocery stores, restaurants, or catering services for the delivery of fresh food items.
8.2 Flatbed truck with refrigerated box
The flatbed truck with refrigerated box offers a larger cargo area compared to the mini pickup variant. The refrigerated box provides temperature-controlled storage for a higher volume of perishable goods. Flatbed trucks with refrigerated boxes are commonly used by distributors, wholesalers, or large-scale food service providers for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods.
8.3 Dump truck with refrigerated box
The dump truck with refrigerated box combines the functionality of the dump truck body style with the preservation of perishable goods. The refrigerated box allows for temperature-controlled storage of materials, while the dump feature provides efficient unloading of the cargo. Dump trucks with refrigerated boxes are commonly used in the transportation of perishable goods in the construction, agriculture, or food service industries.
8.4 Box truck with refrigerated box
The box truck with refrigerated box offers the largest cargo area among Kei truck refrigerated box variants. This body style provides ample space for the transportation of a higher volume of temperature-sensitive goods. The refrigerated box ensures that the cargo remains at the desired temperature throughout the journey. Box trucks with refrigerated boxes are commonly used by supermarkets, wholesale distributors, or pharmaceutical companies for the transportation of perishable goods.
9. Kei truck with a tanker
The tanker body style of Kei trucks is designed for the transportation of liquids or gases. Tankers are commonly used in industries such as fuel delivery, chemical transportation, or agricultural applications that involve the transportation of fertilizers or pesticides.
9.1 Mini pickup with tanker
The mini pickup with tanker offers a compact solution for the transportation of liquids or gases. The tanker module is typically mounted in the rear cargo area of the mini pickup, providing a secure and efficient means of transporting the desired fluid or gas. Mini pickups with tankers are commonly used in fuel delivery services, agricultural applications, or small-scale chemical transportation.
9.2 Flatbed truck with tanker
The flatbed truck with tanker body style provides a larger cargo area compared to the mini pickup variant. This allows for the transportation of a higher volume of liquids or gases. The tanker module is securely mounted on the flatbed, providing stability and efficiency during transport. Flatbed trucks with tankers are commonly used in the fuel, agricultural, or chemical industries for larger-scale transportation of fluids or gases.
9.3 Dump truck with tanker
The dump truck with tanker combines the functionality of the dump truck body style with the transportation of liquids or gases. The tanker module is mounted on the dump truck, providing stability and efficiency during transport, while the dump feature allows for easy unloading of fluids or gases. Dump trucks with tankers are commonly used in the construction, agricultural, or chemical industries where the movement of both materials and liquids is required.
9.4 Box truck with tanker
The box truck with tanker offers a fully enclosed and secure solution for the transportation of liquids or gases. The tanker module is integrated into the box truck body, providing a dedicated space for the desired fluid or gas. This body style is commonly used in industries that require the transportation of specialized liquids or gases, such as chemical companies, fuel distributors, or industrial cleaning services.
10. Kei truck with a crane
The crane body style of Kei trucks offers a versatile solution for businesses that require the lifting and maneuvering of heavy objects. Cranes are commonly used in construction, maintenance, or utility industries.
10.1 Mini pickup with crane
The mini pickup with crane combines the practicality of a pickup truck with the lifting capability of a crane. The crane module is typically mounted on the rear cargo bed of the mini pickup, providing the ability to lift and move heavy objects with ease. Mini pickups with cranes are commonly used in construction sites, maintenance projects, or landscaping applications that require the lifting and movement of materials.
10.2 Flatbed truck with crane
The flatbed truck with crane offers a larger cargo area compared to the mini pickup variant, providing increased lifting capacity. The crane module is mounted on the flatbed, allowing for versatile lifting and maneuvering capabilities. This body style is commonly used in industries that require the transportation of heavy machinery, construction materials, or other large and bulky objects.
10.3 Dump truck with crane
The dump truck with crane combines the functionality of the dump truck body style with the versatility of a crane. The crane module is typically mounted behind the cabin, providing efficient lifting and loading capabilities. This allows for the transportation of both materials and the ability to lift and unload them when required. Dump trucks with cranes are commonly used in construction sites, road maintenance, or other applications that require both material transportation and heavy lifting.
10.4 Box truck with crane
The box truck with crane offers a fully enclosed cargo area with the added benefit of a crane for lifting and maneuvering heavy objects. The crane module is integrated into the box truck body, providing versatility and convenience during the transportation and lifting process. This body style is commonly used by industries that require the transportation of delicate or valuable goods that need to be handled with care, such as art galleries, event management companies, or equipment rental services.
In conclusion, Kei trucks offer a wide range of body styles to cater to various industries and purposes. From regular cabs to extended cabs and crew cabs, these trucks provide options for transporting both goods and personnel. The different body styles, such as mini pickups, flatbed trucks, dump trucks, box trucks, vans, trucks with canopies, campers, stake beds, refrigerated boxes, tankers, and cranes, offer versatility and functionality to meet specific requirements. Whether you need to transport materials, goods, or even live in your vehicle, there is a Kei truck body style that can accommodate your needs.