As the Japanese Classic Car Show draws near, a new wave of nostalgia and curiosity is taking the automotive world by storm. And it’s coming in pint-sized form. Kei trucks, those compact, practical, and endlessly charming workhorses from Japan, are capturing hearts around the globe.
According to new data from eBay, interest in Kei trucks has skyrocketed between 2023 and 2024, with sales increasing nearly 90% across the platform. Once considered niche collector imports, these mini trucks known for their affordability, versatility, and quirky character have become a global phenomenon.
During that same period, Subaru Sambar and Honda Acty sales jumped nearly 50%, while the Daihatsu Hijet saw a more than 25% boost. The upward trend is not limited to sales; search data suggests the fascination is only gaining momentum.
In August 2025 alone, Kei trucks were searched more than 340 times per day on eBay globally, and the Suzuki Carry led the pack with over 1,000 daily searches.
From rural farms to urban garages, these micro-sized imports are redefining what enthusiasts value. Simplicity, personality, and a slice of Japanese ingenuity. With the Japanese Classic Car Show highlighting vintage and modern classics alike, expect Kei trucks to roll in with just as much fanfare as the legends that inspired them.
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