Honda Acty Mini Truck

In 1999, Honda took a bold step forward by unveiling a completely redesigned Acty Truck and Acty Van, transforming these workhorses into more refined, capable, and versatile vehicles that would carry the Acty legacy well into the new millennium. The overhaul was more than skin-deep—it was an extensive re-engineering effort that touched every aspect of these kei vehicles, ensuring they could meet the evolving demands of both commercial users and everyday drivers.

One of the most significant changes was the introduction of a longer wheelbase, which not only improved stability but also provided a smoother ride—an essential upgrade for those spending long hours behind the wheel. Honda also integrated power steering across the range, making the Acty far more maneuverable, especially in tight urban environments or rugged terrains where precise handling is crucial. The engine received a power boost, while fuel efficiency was optimized, making the Acty both more powerful and economical to run—traits that appealed to a wide array of users, from small business owners to delivery drivers.

In a move that reflected the changing needs of the market, Honda decided to retire the Street van, a model that had been a staple of the Acty lineup. In its place, Honda introduced the Vamos—a more passenger-focused vehicle that catered to those looking for comfort and style in a compact package. Meanwhile, the Town spec became the flagship trim for the Acty, loaded with features that made it the premium choice for those who wanted a bit more from their kei truck or van.

Safety enhancements were a key focus of this generation. Recognizing the growing importance of occupant protection, Honda equipped the Acty with a driver’s airbag as standard, and for the first time, buyers could opt for a passenger airbag as well. The vehicle’s structure was also re-engineered to improve crash safety, earning better ratings not just for passenger protection, but also in terms of pedestrian safety—an increasingly critical factor in vehicle design at the turn of the century.

Honda didn’t just stop at making the Acty safer and more comfortable—they also made it incredibly versatile for commercial users. The Acty Truck was offered in three distinct commercial series: The Powerful Series, The Fresh Delivery Series, and The Utility Series. These weren’t just marketing gimmicks; each series was designed with specific commercial applications in mind. Whether you needed a vehicle for heavy-duty work, delivering perishable goods, or performing utility tasks, there was an Acty configuration that fit the bill.

The Acty could be equipped with a wide range of commercial-grade features, depending on the series and trim level. Options included a dump bed—perfect for construction or landscaping work—a hydraulic lift for easy loading and unloading, and a variety of cargo boxes, including refrigerated and dry storage options. For those in the transport business, there was even a shallow bed specifically designed for motorcycle transport, showcasing Honda’s attention to niche market needs.

The versatility of the dump truck models was especially noteworthy. Buyers could choose from a range of bed configurations, including deep or shallow beds, with options for added cabin frame protectors. The 4WD Attack models, known for their off-road prowess, were also available with dump beds and locking differentials, making them a go-to choice for those needing a rugged, all-terrain vehicle.

2000, Honda took a significant step forward in making the Acty even more accessible and user-friendly by introducing an automatic transmission option across the entire lineup. This was a big deal, particularly for the 4×4 models, which, for the first time, could be paired with the convenience of an automatic gearbox. No longer did drivers have to choose between the rugged capability of a 4WD and the ease of an automatic transmission; now, they could have both, making the Acty more versatile than ever.

But Honda didn’t stop there. Recognizing the importance of aesthetics as well as function, they also began offering all Acty models with a painted front bumper as standard. Previously, these bumpers came unpainted, giving the vehicles a more utilitarian appearance. With this update, the Acty got a subtle yet meaningful facelift, adding a touch of polish that made it just as stylish as it was practical. This change reflected Honda’s commitment to continuously refining the Acty, ensuring it met the needs of its drivers in both form and function.

In 2001, Honda gave the Acty lineup some serious upgrades, turning what was already a highly practical vehicle into an even more capable and comfortable workhorse. Starting with the dump trucks, Honda extended the cargo bed by an additional 70mm, bringing the total length to 1,940mm (6ft 4in). This might sound like a minor tweak, but it significantly boosted the truck's utility, allowing it to handle larger loads with ease. Alongside this, the maximum load capacity saw a jump, moving from 250kg (552lbs) to a more robust 350kg (772lbs), making the Acty an even more reliable partner for heavy-duty tasks.

The Acty Van wasn’t left out of the 2001 upgrades either. Recognizing the growing need for comfort in commercial vehicles, Honda made air conditioning a standard feature across all van models—a welcome addition for anyone spending long hours on the road. But they didn’t stop there. Honda also introduced a range of new options that elevated the driving experience, including power front windows, tinted glass for added privacy and sun protection, and a rear heater to keep passengers warm during those chilly winter mornings.

Visually, the Acty Truck and Van were offered in two timeless colors: Taffeta White and Bay Blue, both of which gave the vehicles a clean, professional appearance. As the model years progressed, Honda made further refinements, such as adding body-colored side-view mirrors, which not only enhanced the overall aesthetic but also included convex mirrors for improved visibility—a small yet thoughtful upgrade that underscored Honda’s attention to detail.