Kei Tora Customization: The Shakotan Craze
Kei Tora [軽トラ, light truck) were introduced to the japanese market in 1949 after the war as a small 660cc version of a truck that was capable of hauling up to 350Kg [ 770lbs].
Originally redesigned from the previous 3 wheeled small load accident prone trucks, the 4 wheel kei truck was Japan’s answer to help people in agriculture, fisheries, construction, and even for firefighters. The relatively narrow box construction of the chassis and ability to fit in narrow roadways/pathways that the driver required made long overdue upgrade.
In Japan kei trucks are a very standard vehicle for many, and are commonly seen in suburban and rural areas as they have great flexibility for their intended purpose. It’s important to note that because they are also relatively inexpensive to purchase, many people in trades use them.
Japan, the land of customization, also has a crazy culture of Kei Tora Shakotan [軽トラシャコタン] because like so many other places in the world where car culture has amassed great enthusiasm JDM is no different. In Japan there are countless customs shops and companies that support the growing trend of kei truck customization. While the following is not the same as standard drifting there is a select few who build their kei trucks to drift local circuits in various events.
Many are stripped of their standard workman look to exude a stylistic quality of their larger drifting car counterparts. With everything from side skirts, box fenders, front grills, bumpers, wheels, tires, air sus, camber, headlights, and even spoilers for some they are as outrageous as one could imagine. It’s a lovers paradise for anyone who is really into the cult genre of kei tora.
The most commonly modded kei Tora’s are Honda Acty, Suzuki Carry, Daihatsu’s Haijet, and the Mazda Scrum, however some turn their 6600cc kei cars into slammed kei tora instead. And why not!
