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The NATS Mini Ranger, revealed at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, is a one-of-a-kind creation that showcases the impressive skills of NATS (National Automotive Technical School) students. This miniature version of the Dakar-winning Hino Ranger truck brings together unique design elements and a clever mix of parts to create something truly special. The project uses the ladder frame chassis of the second-generation Suzuki Jimny, known for its rugged off-road capabilities, combined with the bodywork from the ninth-generation cab-over Suzuki Carry, resulting in a compact yet robust build.
Staying true to its kei-van origins, the Mini Ranger is powered by a 657cc Suzuki engine, maintaining the small displacement that characterizes Japan's kei car regulations. Despite its tiny size, the Mini Ranger echoes the spirit of the full-sized Hino Ranger, which has conquered the harsh conditions of the Dakar Rally. With its playful design and impressive craftsmanship, this vehicle blends functionality and fun, making it a standout at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
The Mini Ranger is a perfect example of how student ingenuity can result in a creative and functional design that pushes the boundaries of what's possible within a small-scale, yet technically impressive framework. While it's unlikely to see widespread production, the NATS Mini Ranger proves that even the most ambitious ideas can be realized with the right blend of imagination and technical know-how.
