NATS Students Build A Mini Dakar Truck With Suzuki DNA
by AutoExpert | 25 January, 2025
The Mini Ranger was hands-down the surprise hit of the Tokyo Auto Salon. It is basically a kei truck decked out as a miniature tribute to the legendary Hino Rangers that crush it at the Dakar Rally. Equal parts cool and absurdly fun, it left everyone grinning like kids at a toy store.
Specifically, the Mini Ranger was the showstopper at the Tokyo Auto Salon. The enormous Hino Rangers rule the Dakar Rally, and this little kei truck is just a little scaled-down replica of them.
The students began by extending the wheelbase of a Suzuki Jimny ladder frame chassis. Then they gave it the timeless cab-over appearance by removing the cab from a Suzuki Carry. They added a truck-style grille and stylish LED headlights from a Daihatsu Hijet to the front end to give it a more Dakar-esque appearance.
A stunning red and white racing livery was applied, and the cargo space was even encased with steel panels. With its sporty steering wheel, bucket seats, and additional instruments on the dashboard, this vehicle shouts "mini rally machine." They even put a spare wheel on the rear in case you have a flat tire while you're pretending to go on your Dakar trip.
The Mini Ranger's 657cc Suzuki engine may not seem like much when contrasted with the enormous 10-liter diesels seen in the actual Dakar vehicles. But look at how little this is! Additionally, it boasts a 4WD system, guaranteeing ample capability for off-road adventures.
To enhance the vehicle's ground clearance, the students upgraded the suspension to a more robust configuration. On top of that, they added all-terrain tires on those little wheels for better traction.
Sadly, there will only ever be one Mini Ranger. It is, nevertheless, a remarkable demonstration of the potential that can be achieved with the help of imaginative engineering students and a handful of discarded Suzuki components.
The most exciting aspect? This tiny one may legally be driven on public roads.
