Microvan
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A microvan is a van that fits into Japanese kei car classification or similar. In certain regions, these models are inexpensive and widely used for small business because of tax and insurance benefits; for example, in Japan they are exempted from a certification that there is adequate parking available for the vehicle. In China, these vehicles are nicknamed mian bao che ("bread loaf van") because of their shape.[1]
Most microvans have two swinging front doors, two sliding rear doors and a large tailgate. Seating can vary from two to nine; these seats are usually very thin and vertical to optimise room. The side windows in commercial-only versions of microvans are replaced by metallic panels. Some models also feature pickup truck variants with one or two seat rows. Engines usually have displacements under 1.0 litres; for example, Japanese microvans have a limit of 660 cc.
The kei car regulation is used only in Japan, though other Asian automakers also design microvans with similar characteristics.
[edit] References
- ^ Chinese Hero Cars: The Mian Bao Che - China Car Times