A plan has been announced to assemble a Daihatsu kei truck in the U.S. and launch KEI-01 under Toyota's new brand, Scion by Toyota. Assembly in the U.S. will use a semi-knockdown system, beginning in the second half of 2027, with an expected investment of ¥34 million and approximately 50 new jobs.
TMNA, Toyota's North American operating company, announced that it will launch the new Scion by Toyota brand in the U.S. and unveiled the KEI-01 as the brand's first model. Based on the Daihatsu Hijet Truck Jumbo, the KEI-01 will be offered as a utility truck for low-speed vehicle use, tailored to the U.S. market.
Parts manufactured at Daihatsu Kyushu's Nakatsu Plant in Japan will be exported to the U.S., where they will be assembled through semi-knockdown production at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana. Under the plan, assembly will begin in the second half of 2027, with an investment of ¥34 million creating approximately 50 new jobs.
The KEI-01 is intended to comply with U.S. federal safety standard FMVSS No. 500 for low-speed vehicles and will come standard with a 660cc 3-cylinder engine, CVT and 4WD. Its top speed will be set at approximately 40 km/h, and whether it can be driven on public roads may vary by state.
Sales will initially begin with fleet sales through a trial program for corporations and businesses, with Scion by Toyota dealers serving as the point of contact. Sales to the general public may be considered in the future depending on market conditions. In addition to the KEI-01, the SxS concept and BKE concept were also announced.