Have you ever considered the Eco-Friendliness of Kei Trucks? In today’s economy, it is extremely important to note how much of an impact your vehicle has on the environment. So much is the need for economic vehicles that a bill has just been introduced which would monitor the carbons of key cities. As a result, cities will be more prone to regulations on vehicles, ensuring that they meet the standards set forth in the bill. One way in which you can lower your footprint is with a Kei Truck. The eco-friendliness of Kei Trucks is explained further below.
A durable and timeless Truck
Unlike some standard-sized vehicles, the eco-friendliness of Kei Trucks can be seen in their construction. Many of the models, such as the Subaru Sambar Japanese Mini Truck, have lasted for over 25 years. The first generation models are close to 80 years old and running. These are true classic trucks. Though there have been new generations introduced, the older generations are not forgotten.
Most of the generations are made from sheet metal. The cabins and the beds of the trucks are unibody, meaning that the chassis and the bed are not two separate pieces. Fold downs are typical on the bed of the truck. The hinges and the lower body are the only actual areas where there are typical signs of age. But, considering that most of the first-generation models from the different manufacturers still run, a bit of age showing is not that big of a deal.
The Cost is low
Owning a Kei Truck is easy to come by. The cost is lower than that of a standard full-sized truck. On average, a full-size truck costs around $30k. This is for a base model. If you wish to have a full-sized and fully loaded truck, like the F150, then you can expect to pay $78,945 before financing. When financed, the cost of one of these trucks can be close to $100k (when you add in interest). Kei trucks are far less expensive. For a new Kei Truck, you can expect to pay between 5K and 8K, depending upon the brand and the features you wish to have. Older models are extremely cheap selling for as low as $800 sometimes.
With the low cost of ownership, the eco-friendliness of Kei Trucks is shown. Less money spent on the truck and less of a cost obligation open the user up to put the savings back into the economy and stimulate economic growth. Low cost of ownership and a reliable vehicle, what is not to like?
Load Capabilities for everyday use
Let us be realistic. Unless you are a construction worker or someone who is involved with major industry, you do not need to have a 42,000-pound weight load on your truck. It is excessive. Kei Trucks have a standard capacity of around 1500 lbs. This is a ton and a half. Most people do not need to use more than that for their loads. Because you are using less of a load and because the overall size of the bed and the truck is smaller than that of the full-sized truck, there is less strain on the vehicle. Less strain on the vehicle means that there is less fuel consumption.
It is important to note that even though the weight load of the bed is 1500 pounds; it does not mean that it is limited to that weight. Many Kei Trucks have the capacity for towing, which can add additional weight to the vehicle. When loading a Kei Truck, as with any truck, make sure that you load the truck evenly to avoid any tipping or other common issues which may occur.
The Fuel efficiency of Kei Trucks
Perhaps the greatest way in which the Eco-Friendliness of Kei Trucks can be seen is in the fuel efficiency and engine design. Most standard-sized trucks get only 8 to 10mpg, depending upon the model. This is for trucks that do not reach the 20 ft mark. Once a truck gets over 20 ft, the fuel efficiency drops to 4 to 6 mpg. This is horrible for the environment as it means more fuel consumption is needed even for the shortest of trips.
Kei Trucks are fuel-efficient. Most models have 36.7 mpg ratings. Some vehicles such as the Mazda Scrum, previously the Autozam Scrum, have a fuel efficiency of 45mpg. The Scrum, like many of the Kei trucks, has a 660 cc DOHC three-cylinder engine while providing 25 KW. That cannot be said of modern full-sized vehicles which pride themselves on the bigger is better mentality. While you may get a bit more power, your fuel consumption plummets. The Kei Truck offers great fuel efficiency and speeds which are in line with most small to midsize roads.
The Eco-friendliness of Kei Trucks
When considering the points above, it is easy to see the Eco-Friendliness of Kei Trucks. They are small and reliable. They are fuel-efficient, while powerful enough to handle most jobs. Not only this, but the price point of the vehicle allows for most buyers to purchase the Kei Truck with no financing, allowing for more money to be spent elsewhere. Besides this, they are multipurpose. For example, if you have a Daihatsu Hijet Mini Truck with a flatbed, you can later add a cabin to the bed of the truck and turn it into a van. Or you could order the truck with a dump bed or scissor lift. That is just one brand and one model. Most of the brands on the market offer variations and packaging to meet your needs.
If you wish to purchase a Kei Truck, check with the importation authorities in your area. Most Kei trucks that are 25 years old or older are easily imported for off-road or agricultural use. Newer models may have stipulations to the importation.