Sorry, Japan. Ford pulled out back in 2016 due to low demand. That means Japanese folks can’t get Ford F-150 trucks through local dealerships. However, Japan is trying to order 100 F-150 models anyways. 

Japan wants 100 Ford F-150 trucks 

For years, people in Japan have been happy without massive American trucks like the Ford F-150. This is why Ford pulled out of the market back in 2016. Instead, Japanese drivers prefer smaller options like the Toyota Hilux and kei trucks. 

This is because the roads and public infrastructure are too small for full-size options. According to Hot Cars, the average road lane width in Tokyo is 2.7 meters. American lanes are about 3.6 meters wide. Plus, the F-150 is about 2 meters wide without counting the mirrors. 

On top of that, maintaining Ford trucks is very difficult and expensive. The country lacks an official Ford dealer network, making it challenging to find technicians and source replacement parts. 

But Japan doesn’t care and would like to purchase 100 F-150 models immediately. The trucks would be used in rural areas with more space. 

They would be used by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism. The capabilities of the F-150 would be beneficial for civil engineering and flood control work. 

But here’s where things get fishy. This sudden surge in interest in Ford trucks coincides with President Trump’s upcoming visit. Japan might be trying to get his attention to show its compliance with Washington. 

Over 1.3 million vehicles are imported from Japan annually. However, only 16,000 American vehicles are sent to Japan. But American cars are subjected to additional safety testing in Japan. 

The country might be ready to increase American imports to better balance trade figures. The plan is working so far, as the trucks are already giving Japan more attention.