Kei Car

 Kei Car is highly popular in Japan

What Exactly Is a Kei Car?

A kei car (short for keijidōsha, meaning “light automobile” in Japanese) is a unique type of compact car made for the Japanese market. These cars follow specific rules about size, engine, and power to get tax benefits, cheaper insurance, and lower ownership costs.

Main Features

• Engine Size: Up to 660cc

• Horsepower: Usually around 63 hp or less

• Size Limits:

  • Length: Max 3.4 meters

  • Width: Max 1.48 meters

  • Height: Max 2 meters

• Seats: Typically fits 4 passengers

• Mileage: Very fuel-efficient – often 20–25 km/l or more

• Transmission: Mostly automatic (CVT), though some manuals are available

Why Kei Cars Are So Popular in Japan

 Extremely fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly
 Great for tight city parking
Budget-friendly in terms of buying, fueling, and maintaining
Get lower taxes and insurance rates
Ideal for urban driving and short trips

Things to Keep in Mind

– Not the best for long highway journeys or high-speed travel
– Small trunks and limited storage
– Usually have fewer safety features than bigger cars (though modern models are improving)

Different Types of Kei Cars

• Passenger Cars: Like the Daihatsu Mira, Suzuki Alto, Honda N-One

• Mini Vans: Such as the Suzuki Every or Daihatsu Hijet (great for small deliveries)

• Mini Trucks: Handy for farms and small business use

Kei Cars Beyond Japan

Kei cars are also exported to countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and parts of Europe, where people want economical, compact cars for city life. They’re especially appealing to new drivers or families looking for a second vehicle