KEI Vehicles

Are you interested in learning about the history of Kei vehicles in Japan? Our comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the evolution of these vehicles, from their introduction in the 1950s to their current popularity. We cover everything from the usage, design and engineering of these vehicles to their impact on Japanese culture. With our guide, you'll gain a better understanding of this fascinating topic and be able to appreciate the history of Kei vehicles in Japan.

The term Kei is short for keijidōsha, which means light automobile in Japanese. It’s a category of vehicle in Japan, which have lower tax and insurance costs. There are limits on the maximum vehicle size, engine capacity and power output for the vehicle to be categorised as a Kei vehicle.

Kei vehicles are common in Japan and becoming increasingly popular due to their numerous advantages. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. They are also fuel-efficient, providing better mileage than traditional cars and trucks. Additionally, they have low emissions, which makes them a great choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. Furthermore, they require less maintenance than larger vehicles making them a cost-effective option for individuals, families and businesses. With all these benefits combined, kei trucks are the go-to choice for many people in Japan.

Kei vehicles are so popular in Japan, they now account for around 40% of all new cars sold in the country. They are both practical and cost effective, we hope to bring these benefits to the UK and other countries outside of Japan.

Japanese government regulations limit the physical size, engine power, and engine displacement of kei cars. Kei vehicles have also been subject to other restrictions, such as lower speed limits, including a warning chime that goes off if being driven too fast.

In Japan Kei cars feature yellow license plates, black numbers on yellow background for private use and yellow numbers on black background for commercial use. You will easily notice kei vehicles looking through photos of Japanese streets in Japan.

For an illustration of the evolution of Japanese vehicles, see the table below, which shows the kei vehicle regulations over time.

Even though kei vehicles are sold new exclusively for the Japanese market, many second hand kei cars and trucks end up being exported to many countries around the world. We would like to increase their popularity in the UK. Please visit our vehicles for sale page or contact us if you would like to discuss further.