軽(けい)トラ

けいとら
noun
light mini-truck
informaltransportation
1. light mini-truck, kei truck
A small truck classified as a kei vehicle (light motor vehicle) in Japan. Extremely common in rural areas for farming and small-scale transport.
軽(けい)トラで荷物(にもつ)を運(はこ)ぶ。
To carry cargo in a kei truck.
農家(のうか)では軽(けい)トラが欠(か)かせない。
A kei truck is indispensable for farmers.
中古(ちゅうこ)の軽(けい)トラを安(やす)く手(て)に入(い)れた。
I got a used kei truck cheaply.

Abbreviation of 軽(けい)トラック (kei truck). Kei trucks are small trucks that meet Japan's 軽自動車(けいじどうしゃ) specifications: 660cc engine maximum, specific size limits.

Cultural note

  • Very small, open-bed trucks
  • Lower taxes and insurance than regular vehicles
  • Easy to maneuver in narrow Japanese streets
  • Ubiquitous in rural and agricultural areas

The 軽(けい)トラ is an iconic part of Japanese rural life and has a dedicated fan culture.

Usage

Farmers, construction workers, and small businesses rely on 軽(けい)トラ for daily work. Also popular with hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts for hauling materials.

Related words

Related Words

Related: 軽自動車(けいじどうしゃ) (kei car (vehicle class))
general
Added 2026.3.14 13:25 · Revised 2026.10.17 10:34
16500/16711_keitora