Kei Trucks: Are they safe?

Kei trucks are great for getting around town, on a construction site, for outdoor adventures, or for agricultural purposes.There are a few videos showcasing uncommon occurrences with Kei trucks. Some have questioned its safety. Are Kei trucks safe? This article explains why they are.

General arguments

There are statements that Kei trucks are front-end heavy. This would cause them to tip over when brakes are applied. However, customers have also stated that the truck only does so if the weight is improperly loaded, and the brakes are slammed on instead of engaged properly. Another argument is that there is a lower grade to the suspension system, which causes issues. Yet, tests have shown that the suspension system, while different, is not below industry standards.

The last argument is that there is a lower horsepower than full-sized vehicles. This argument does not diminish the safety of the Kei trucks. Studies have shown that vehicles traveling at a low speed are less likely to have problems. This includes severe injuries or death in the event of an accident. Also, studies have shown that vehicles traveling at lower speeds are easier to control than those traveling at a faster rate.

The practical of designs lends to safety

Kei trucks have a practical and economical design. This means that the overall design is simplistic but functional. Because of this, focus is given to the overall safety features of the truck. The trucks are not made to be classified as luxury vehicles. Allowances are given to the exterior shape. Most of the Kei trucks have a boxlike appearance because of the steel construction. This steel is a safety factor, as it is stronger than the fiberglass used in most modern vehicles.

Driving Safety Features on Kei trucks

Once behind the wheel, the drivability is a huge safety factor. Kei trucks maintain the safety of the driver by having various models available. Typical safety features include four-wheel drive (4WD) and power steering capabilities. The ultra-low forward and reverse gears, when paired with the differential lock-in system, make it safe to operate. Many of the Kei trucks offer a manual 4-speed transmission. This is considered by some to be a safer option than automatic transmissions.

Customers state that the driving of Kei trucks is very precise and that the vehicle’s brakes are usually decent. It is important to note that older models will have substantial differences from new generation models as technology and the automotive industry have changed dramatically since the 1960s when mico vehicles first emerged.

A picture of an older micro truck.

Airbags minimize risks

Depending upon the type of micro truck you purchase, you might have airbags installed. Airbags prove to be one of the best safety features in a vehicle. Research shows that having airbags reduces the likelihood of death or injury, specifically brain injuries. Because of the lower acceleration speeds of Kei trucks, the necessity for airbag deployment is minimized. Most airbags protect not only the driver but the passengers as well. In a Kei truck, the size of the cabin and the size of the airbag would affect everyone.

Airbags are not standard on Kei trucks. Check with the manufacturer to see if your Kei truck has airbags or if airbags are available for your chosen model.

Modern Safety Features

Demands for technology safety features increases in standard vehicles, the trucks answer the call. Some vehicles have Smart Assist safety systems, such as the 2018 Hijet Truck, keyless entry, and GPS. Other safety features include adjustable side mirrors and anti-locking brakes.

A picture showing how the sides of the bed of a kei trucks can be folded down.

Are Kei trucks beds safe?

Loads for the Kei truck beds are subjective to the type of truck purchased. Most truck beds are made of steel and are therefore safer than those of fiberglass. Dump kei trucks and scissor lift Kei beds have extreme standard testing before they are allowed on the market. Additionally, due to the small size, there is a minimized risk of mechanical failure. The smaller size means less hydraulic fluids for Dump trucks and scissor trucks. This minimizes the risks for injury in the event of a leak.

Overall, are Kei trucks safe?

Kei trucks are safe. The videos which have peppered the internet show the trucks being improperly loaded and used. When any vehicle is operated outside of the way it was driven, the risk of injury increases. Trucks, when loaded properly, do not cause the vehicle to tip over or to swerve. Braking works based on the acceleration and the rate at which you stop.

Built of steel, packed with driving and riding safety features, and with the availability of modern driving and safety equipment, the trucks are as safe a vehicle as any other car or truck of a similar building. For the safest vehicles, look to the top five brands on the market.