Japanese tuning company Direct Cars has rebuilt the local Daihatsu Hijet Kei truck into a charming tiny camper somewhat reminiscent of Asian capsule hotels. It has enough sleeping space to accommodate up to four (non-claustrophobic) people.
The living area houses a table and two sofas that unfold to form a bed for two. Another double bed resides at the very ceiling above the driver’s cab. The images may not make it clear, but the whole truck is only 3,395 mm (132.6 inches) long, so that’s quite the accomplishment.
Amenities on board include a microwave oven, a sink, a 35-liter fridge and AC. Storage drawers are tucked under the main bed, and extra lighting is installed all around along with handy USB charging ports. By default, the camper ships with a 100-Ah battery for appliances, but you can order a bigger 200-Ah unit along with a 100W solar panel arrangement.
As all other Kei cars, this one relies on a 660cc (0.66-liter) engine for propulsion. It doesn’t exceed 64 PS (63 hp / 47 kW), but can be configured to drive all four wheels instead of just the rear ones. Likewise, customers can choose a CVT over the car’s standard five-speed manual.
Preorders are already running. The tuner lists similar truck builds under the names Dune Rover, Katana Mini, and PLAT. The former two seem closely related, while PLAT stands out thanks to added premium equipment and sleeker “city dweller” looks.
