Daihatsu Midget X Concept

Daihatsu at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show reveals the Midget X — a fully electric concept that revives one of the company’s most iconic nameplates for a new generation.

First introduced in 1957, the original Midget was a tiny three-wheeler designed for shopkeepers and delivery drivers, darting through Japan’s narrow streets with the nimbleness of a motorcycle.

It made a comeback in 1996 as the Midget II, a quirky mix of retro charm and practicality, before bowing out in 2001. Now, more than two decades later, Daihatsu is bringing the little workhorse back to life.

Previewed briefly ahead of its Tokyo debut later this month, the Midget X reimagines the beloved mini-truck as a compact electric LCV. The design pays homage to its predecessors with circular LED headlights, a wraparound “helicopter” windshield, and partially exposed wheels that integrate both lighting elements and a charge indicator.

Inside, the cabin keeps things unconventional — the driver sits in the center, flanked by two passenger seats. The concept shown features a backpack-style cargo compartment behind the seats and an extended rear bed for extra utility.

Other clever touches include rotating door handles and rear-hinged doors. Technical specs haven’t been revealed yet, though Daihatsu says the model’s compact size allows it to “fit into a variety of lifestyles” and that it aims to “make everyone happy.”

With the Midget X, Daihatsu continues its tradition of small but spirited vehicles. The concept draws inspiration not only from the original Midget but also from the Hijet light commercial truck, the Charade hatchback, the Mira TR-XX hot hatch, the Copen roadster, the Tanto kei car, and even the modern Nibako mobile shop platform.

For now, the Midget X remains a concept — but given its blend of heritage, innovation, and practicality, a production version wouldn’t be far-fetched.

After all, Toyota President and CEO, Koji Sato described the concept as the “Midget of the future” during the official presentation at the Japan Mobility Show:

“Making small cars is incredibly difficult. As someone who has been involved in car-making, I can say that from my heart. But Daihatsu continues to take on such challenges. Now, as then, Daihatsu’s car-making is staying the course. Going around town to listen to what people are saying… thinking about how to help people when it finds someone in trouble… racking its brain over how it can make the most of its technologies for making things small. This led to the Midget X.”