Description
The Daihatsu Midget DK2 was one of the early models in the Midget lineup, a family of ultra-compact, three-wheeled utility vehicles designed for small business and urban transport use. Produced in the late 1950s, the DK2 was a refined version of the original Daihatsu Midget and featured several improvements aimed at increasing its usability and appeal.
The DK2 retained the fundamental design of the Midget series, with a single front wheel for steering and two rear wheels supporting the cargo load. This layout made the vehicle exceptionally compact and highly maneuverable, perfect for navigating the narrow alleyways and congested city streets common in post-war Japanese cities.
At the heart of the DK2 was a single-cylinder, air-cooled petrol engine, typically around 250 cc in displacement. It produced approximately 10 horsepower, which was enough to move the lightweight vehicle efficiently at urban speeds. A manual transmission sent power to the rear wheels, and while the DK2 was not designed for high performance, it was reliable and economical to run.
One of the key developments in the DK2 was the improved cabin. While early Midget models were open or semi-enclosed and steered with handlebars like a scooter, the DK2 featured a proper steering wheel and a more fully enclosed cabin. This change significantly improved driver comfort and safety, making the vehicle more appealing for daily use, especially in poor weather.
The cargo bed behind the cabin remained small but useful, typically flat with low sides, suitable for transporting light goods such as groceries, tools, or packages. With a payload capacity of about 300 kilograms, it served well for short deliveries and local commerce.
The DK2 was part of a broader movement in Japan to mechanise small-scale logistics and replace traditional pushcarts and bicycles with motorised solutions. Its low cost, ease of maintenance, and excellent fuel economy made it a highly popular choice among small business owners and independent operators.
Though production of the three-wheeled Midgets would eventually give way to four-wheeled kei trucks and vans, the DK2 played an important role in the evolution of compact commercial vehicles in Japan. Its success helped establish Daihatsu as a leader in the field of small and efficient transport solutions.
Today, the Daihatsu Midget DK2 is a collector’s item, valued for its historical significance, simplicity, and unique appearance. Restored examples are occasionally seen in vintage car shows or preserved in museums focused on Japanese automotive history.