Can I Get An LHD Mini Truck?

Here’s the short answer—you can’t get a left-hand drive (LHD) Japanese mini truck. But keep reading to see why this isn’t a dealbreaker and why it shouldn’t stand in the way of your mini truck plans.

Japanese Mini Trucks Are RHD, But That's No Problem

Japanese mini trucks are designed for Japan, where even off-road drivers are used to sitting on the right side. In the US, of course, it’s the opposite, with the driver on the left. So, does the fact that you can’t get an LHD Japanese mini truck pose a problem when using one off-road in America? Actually, it doesn’t, and here are at least two good reasons why:

Daihatsu Hijet Jumbo Japanese mini truck from left side against evening sky

Japanese Mini Trucks Are For Off-Road Use Only

While having the steering wheel on the opposite side might feel strange at first, all the mini trucks sold by Mini Truck Depot are for off-road use only, in accordance with federal regulations. So, when you’re driving off-road—whether that’s around your ranch, out in the wilderness on a hunting trip, or working on a remote property—whether you’re sitting on the right or left side really doesn’t matter. Driving from the right-hand side is easy. The driving position is well-designed, with large window areas and wide-view door mirrors that provide excellent all-around visibility. There’s no risk of accidentally driving off the side of a trail or into a tree just because you’re seated on the opposite side of the vehicle from what you’re used to.

In fact, the only (very minor but still amusing) complaint we sometimes hear from mini truck buyers is that even after owning their mini truck for many months, they still sometimes walk up to the wrong door out of habit.

Daihatsu Hijet Deckvan driving off-road in the woods

Here's How You Make The Transition Easy

Still wondering if you’d feel comfortable driving a Japanese mini truck from the ‘opposite’ side? That’s completely understandable. If this sounds like you, here are a couple of tips to help make the transition easier:

First, keep in mind that the Japanese mini trucks for sale here come with a range of transmission options. While there are classic 5-speed manual transmission models, you’ll also find regular automatic transmission mini trucks and CVT (continuously variable transmission) automatic mini trucks. Choosing an automatic or CVT model can make adapting to right-hand driving quicker and easier. With these, all you need to focus on is starting, stopping, and steering—no need to train your left hand to shift gears.

Here’s the second tip: ease into it. When your mini truck arrives, find a wide-open area, like a field with nothing in it to hit, and spend some time just driving around to get used to the feel of sitting on the right. If you’ve chosen a manual model, you’ll also have a chance to practice shifting with your left hand. And don’t worry—the pedals are laid out the same way you’re used to, no matter which side of the vehicle the driver’s seat is on. After just 30 minutes or so, you’ll feel right at home and wonder why you were ever concerned about needing an LHD mini truck.

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