Toyota to bring Japan-style compact truck to US under revived brand

Japanese automaker Toyota plans to bring its so-called kei truck to the U.S. market, the company said in a release on Nov. 10.

Toyota unveiled both the truck and its new Scion by Toyota brand at events in Michigan and Texas on Nov. 9. The model, called KEI-01, is described by the company as an «ultra-compact utility truck» and is the first vehicle introduced under the rebooted Scion brand.

According to the release, the company plans to initially test U.S. customer reception through a fleet-focused pilot program, with sales handled by select Scion by Toyota dealers within Toyota’s existing dealer network. The company expects the vehicle to arrive in the U.S. in the second half of 2027.

The KEI-01 is designed to meet U.S. federal safety requirements for low-speed vehicles. It is powered by a 660-cc three-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and four-wheel drive. The vehicle will feature right-hand drive and have a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour (approximately 40 kilometers per hour).

The KEI-01 will be assembled at Toyota’s manufacturing facility in Indiana. The project represents a $34 million investment and is expected to create approximately 50 new jobs. Pricing has yet to be announced.

Alongside the KEI-01, Toyota showcased the SxS Concept and BKE Concept, reflecting its vision of Scion by Toyota as a «Freedom Lab» where unconventional ideas can take shape.

Previously, Kursiv Cars reported that Toyota and Waymo plan to begin robotaxi testing in Japan in 2027.