Suzuki, Subaru & Daihatsu: Three Small-Car Solutions | Japan Part 3

Why did Japan build such tiny cars? Discover how Suzuki, Subaru and Daihatsu developed small vehicles for families, narrow streets and everyday work. In Part 3 of BrandEmpires' Japan series, the story moves from weaving looms and aircraft engineering to some of Japan's most distinctive early small cars. Suzuki's Suzulight began at just three or four cars a month. Subaru worked to fit four people into the compact 360. Daihatsu found a market for the three-wheeled Midget and the four-wheeled Hijet by focusing on the needs of small businesses. This episode explores: Kei-car rules and the challenge of building within tight size limits Suzuki's Power Free, Diamond Free, Suzulight and Carry Nakajima, Fuji Heavy Industries and the Subaru 360 Hatsudoki Seizo, the Daihatsu Midget and the Hijet Why a promising design still needs manufacturing, distribution and buyers Which would you choose for everyday life in 1950s Japan: a Suzulight, a Subaru 360 or a Daihatsu Midget? Tell us your choice and why in the comments. Subscribe to BrandEmpires for more documentary stories behind automotive brands. Japan Part 3 Chapter title: Made in Japan: Small Vehicles for Everyday Life #JapaneseCars #KeiCars #AutomotiveHistory