We have a Kei Van theme this week, so we wanted to feature KTAS community member @zatoichi_the_keivan Hailing from Jersey but now residing in North Carolina, this Kei truck enthusiast shares his journey of discovering these iconic vehicles, making them uniquely his own. Read on to discover what makes his van ‘Ichi’ so special and how it’s become a rolling work of art!
How did you first encounter the Kei truck greatness & tell us how you acquired your badass ride?
First found Kei trucks while searching for RHD vehicles. I had just got hired as a postal worker and needed something to carry mail. I searched online, found YouTubers “Way before the fame” and Mayberry Mini trucks here in NC. After several failed attempts trying to schedule a meet up at Mayberry, I found a guy in Franklinton and went to see them in person. I was going to get a hiace but after a test drive it was a Mitsubishi minicab that won my heart. I got “Ichi” a couple of weeks later and decided to do some modifications myself.
Any mods or plans? Share the details!
Interior mods I planned were doing Japan style fabrics on the door panels, kitana hilt shifter and seat covers. Glove box mural, and sun visors. I also needed some extra comfort so I sewed my own head rests. All Exterior mods include paint, I’ve always dreamed of having nose art on whatever car I drive. So, I sketched a few test images and decided on “maid in Japan”
A pinup style Japanese maid (cross of manga with wwII) the Japanese flag background but modernized chameleon color change paint. I had to paint the trim, bumpers, side view mirrors and wheels. Eventually I’d like to get some sportier rims but family expenses first.
The opposite side has a mural of Japanese swordsman “Zatoichi” cutting down some samurai warriors. The lettering on the rear side panel says Zatoichi, Mitsubishi on the gas cap door, and art over the headlight.
What do you mainly use your Kei Truck for?
I don’t use it to deliver mail, but it is my daily driver. I work less than half a mile away. So I’m not worried about putting miles on it. I use it for art gigs and running errands around town.
Have any wild Kei Truck tales or fun facts about your ride?
Ichi came with… (I forget the Japanese term for it )..I think it’s Fukushi mark emblems. I was going to remove them until I learned in Japan they are used to tell other drivers that you’re an elderly person. I had to leave it as not only a sign of respect but to honor its Japanese roots. It’s a great conversation piece as well.
Favorite thing about owning a Kei truck?
Favorite thing is definitely the smiles and thumbs up from other onlookers and drivers. Everyone loves it. It brings smiles to young and old folks everywhere I go.
Where can we follow you for your Kei truck action? Tell us your socials!
I’m on IG as @zatoichi_the_keivan I’m usually posting my mods or some travel photos of “Ichi”. I’m going to do more mods unless I sell it. I’m pretty attached to it though it’s my first project car and I love doing new things to make it rad.
