Great Big Story — Inside Japan’s Tricked-Out DIY Truck Culture

If you find yourself driving down a highway in Japan, you might pass what looks like an actual Transformer. No, you’re not crazy. These tricked-out transports belong to a niche DIY semi truck culture called dekotora, in which long-haul drivers add custom graphics, lights and swag to their vehicles on a level that goes way beyond a couple decals. With some dekotora customizations costing up to $100,000, many of these dedicated DIY designers see their vehicles as spiritual extensions of their identity.