Another explanation for the small firms’ endurance is the tacit support of Japan’s government.
In the case of Suzuki, Mitsubishi and Daihatsu this support is visible in the form of longstanding tax breaks to miniature “kei” cars.
The tiny cars and trucks now account for around two-fifths of new-vehicle sales in Japan.
Nissan and Honda manufacture kei cars, but the three smaller makers rely on them more.