The Daihatsu Company was formed in 1907 as the Osaka Motor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. Its first vehicles, in 1930, were small 3-wheeled commercial delivery trucks sold under the names Daihatsu or Tsubasa. In 1951 it changed its name to Daihatsu Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, and during the '50's and '60's it produced a wide range of commercial vehicles. Its earlier vehicles were handlebar-steered. Its products were a great success, both in Japan and other Asian markets.

1954 brought the first passenger car, called the "Bee", which was derived from a three-wheeler commercial chassis and powered by a 250cc motor. These three-wheelers were also available as taxis, for which there was a tax reduction of 40% compared to a four-wheeler.

1962 brought the first four-wheeled car- the 700.

1966 saw a one-third controlling interest by Toyota, and the make went from strength to strength from then on.

The cute little Trimobile enjoyed success because its seating position was that of a real car, not an adaptation of a motorcycle.

Manufacturer: Daihatsu Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Osaka Japan