Five years ago, the author imported a Chinese electric mini-truck for $2,080. The vehicle was intended for use on a 10-acre private property in Florida, where it has served as a utility vehicle for hauling materials like mulch, sand, and lumber.
Over the years, the truck underwent several modifications, including the installation of softer suspension springs, a custom tow hitch, and off-road tires. These upgrades improved comfort and performance on sandy terrain, though they reduced the maximum payload capacity to approximately 220 kg.
The vehicle remains operational with functional electric windows, locks, headlights, and a backup camera. The air conditioning system still produces cold air at 12 degrees Celsius. Mechanical issues are limited to minor cosmetic rust, a loose rearview mirror, and slight wear on the driver seat upholstery.
The truck is powered by a 6 kWh battery, which is charged every few weeks. While the vehicle lacks an odometer, it continues to function reliably without major drivetrain failures. The owner notes that the total cost of the import included additional fees for international freight, customs duties, and brokerage services.
