by At the Tokyo Motor Show, Daihatsu Motor presented its smallest, yet perhaps cutest electric vehicle—the Midget X mini-truck prototype. This novelty is designed for “last mile” deliveries—when cargo needs to be delivered to places where larger vans simply cannot reach.
The name Midget has historical weight for Daihatsu. Under this name, the company produced a three-wheeled motor scooter-truck from 1957 to 1972, and from 1996 to 2001—a small delivery vehicle, the Midget II. The new Midget X maintains the lineage—its appearance is clearly inspired by its predecessors: a short “snout,” large round headlights, and compact proportions immediately evoke nostalgia.
At the same time, the concept features a completely modern architecture. The cabin is three-seater, with the driver seated in the center, and two additional seats located on the sides—a similar solution was once used by the McLaren F1, but here it has a purely practical purpose. The panoramic glass offers a wide view, the steering wheel is shaped like a yoke, and the battery level indicator is even duplicated on the outside—so that shippers can immediately see if there is enough electricity for the trip.
Daihatsu has not yet disclosed the technical specifications of the Midget X. It is expected to belong to the L7 class (heavy quadricycles)—meaning small, light, and maneuverable vehicles suitable for narrow city streets or intra-city delivery services.
Judging by the concept, the Midget X could become an ideal partner for small businesses, cafes, courier services, and even municipal utility workers. And although this “dwarf” is still just a prototype, Daihatsu clearly makes it understood: the future of small trucks lies with electricity, and even the smallest vehicle can be of great importance.
