We have spent a lot of time over the years in rural Ireland and Scotland including many of the various islands. We occasionally saw imported Kei cars there as well, which makes a lot of sense given the narrow winding country and village roads and the price of gas on the islands.
I learned from and enjoyed this post. Sounds like a very common sense and practical approach for the government (and parking lots) to reward users with ownership benefits.
I didn't mention this in the article, but I believe that the popularity of Kei cars in Japan reflects the stagnation of Japanese incomes that has persisted since the 1990s.
Every once in a while I'll see one of these on our local online for sale sites. But of course they are offered at a premium price. It's a shame, as I would gladly drive something like this back and forth to work each day.
That makes sense. For cars made over 25 years ago, there's a high chance of breakdowns after purchase, and you never know if replacement parts will even be available. Buying one for a high price really is quite a gamble.
I've never been to the Izu area myself, but it seems like there would be a lot of narrow, winding roads in that region. If that's the case, Kei cars would definitely show their true worth.
Great post! I’ve seen them occasionally here in Toronto. They’re very cute but I wouldn’t want to be in one if it was hit by one of our monstrous SUVs.
Thank you! It's surprising to hear that Kei cars are driving around in Toronto. You're right, the difference in size compared to those massive SUVs is just overwhelming. I wouldn't want to drive a Kei car in North America either.
So it was your first visit to Japan! Mini-cars, known as "kei cars," play a huge role in all sorts of locations, from Japan's urban centers to the countryside.
Yes, it was :-) I hope to come back as I enjoyed it a lot. The cars are very much obvious. I was with a photography group for about 8 days and we had rented two mini bus kei cars for a few days when we were in rural areas.
Beep! Beep!
(^o^)
We have spent a lot of time over the years in rural Ireland and Scotland including many of the various islands. We occasionally saw imported Kei cars there as well, which makes a lot of sense given the narrow winding country and village roads and the price of gas on the islands.
I see! I would love to see those Japanese Kei cars driving around those areas.
Great article. Love the Kei trucks. Thank you.
Thank you! My current car is a Kei van, but I hope to drive a Kei truck one day.
The van would be more practical.
It’s true that a van actually suits my current lifestyle better. (^o^)
I learned from and enjoyed this post. Sounds like a very common sense and practical approach for the government (and parking lots) to reward users with ownership benefits.
I didn't mention this in the article, but I believe that the popularity of Kei cars in Japan reflects the stagnation of Japanese incomes that has persisted since the 1990s.
At least that option exists, here they remain large and expensive for the most part.
It’s true that it’s better to have options that actually fit the market demand.
Every once in a while I'll see one of these on our local online for sale sites. But of course they are offered at a premium price. It's a shame, as I would gladly drive something like this back and forth to work each day.
That makes sense. For cars made over 25 years ago, there's a high chance of breakdowns after purchase, and you never know if replacement parts will even be available. Buying one for a high price really is quite a gamble.
Great photos, Kei cars are all over our hills here in Izu, Shizuoka. Perfect for everyone from farmers to surfers.
I've never been to the Izu area myself, but it seems like there would be a lot of narrow, winding roads in that region. If that's the case, Kei cars would definitely show their true worth.
Yes, exactly "a lot of narrow, winding roads" here and also the Kei cars seem perfect for Japan's ageing rural population? Just a thought...
It certainly seems meaningful to consider 'kei' cars (lightweight vehicles) from the perspective of an aging population.
Great post! I’ve seen them occasionally here in Toronto. They’re very cute but I wouldn’t want to be in one if it was hit by one of our monstrous SUVs.
Thank you! It's surprising to hear that Kei cars are driving around in Toronto. You're right, the difference in size compared to those massive SUVs is just overwhelming. I wouldn't want to drive a Kei car in North America either.
That is so interesting. It's interesting to see cars from another country and how they differ from ours, or slme of them do.
That's true. It's very interesting because cars often reflect the lifestyles and values of the people in that country.
I visited Japan in November and I just HAD to get myself a mini Takara Tomy like the one in the first picture!
How was your trip to Japan? I'm curious to see which mini car you ended up picking out.
It was fantastic. Already planning to go back. I got a Daihatsu Move Canbus. I just love them.
Daihatsu Move! It's the Kei car! (Thumbs up)
I noticed them straight away in Japan (I had never been before I went this year) and now I know this type of car has a name! Thanks a lot :-)
So it was your first visit to Japan! Mini-cars, known as "kei cars," play a huge role in all sorts of locations, from Japan's urban centers to the countryside.
Yes, it was :-) I hope to come back as I enjoyed it a lot. The cars are very much obvious. I was with a photography group for about 8 days and we had rented two mini bus kei cars for a few days when we were in rural areas.
I'm glad to hear that you had a great time in Japan.