Maibatsu Mule
Maibatsu Mule
Description and Design
The Maibatsu Mule is a commercial cargo van manufactured by the Japanese company Maibatsu. It first appeared in Grand Theft Auto V and Grand Theft Auto Online, and later was seen in promotional materials and the first official trailer of Grand Theft Auto VI. In GTA 6, this vehicle is part of the road traffic in the state of Leonida and Vice City. The design blends features of real prototypes (Mitsubishi Fuso FM, Hino Ranger) with the traditional style of the Grand Theft Auto series.
The Mule is a typical medium-duty truck with a boxy cargo body, characteristic of Japanese commercial vehicles from the 1980s to 1990s. Unlike larger trucks such as the Jobuilt Panto or Vapid Guardian, the Mule is compact enough to maneuver through narrow city streets. The cabin is often white or gray with advertisements for fictional companies like Cluckin' Bell, Up-n-Atom, or the cargo carrier Logistics.
Real-Life Prototype
The main inspirations for the Maibatsu Mule are the Japanese medium-duty trucks Mitsubishi Fuso FM and Hino Ranger. Both vehicles were widely used for urban and intercity transport. The Mule's front grille and rectangular headlights evoke late 1980s design, with further influences from the Isuzu Forward and Toyota Dyna.
Specifications and Handling
The Mule is a rear-wheel-drive van with a diesel engine. It weighs about 5500 kg, making it heavy and sluggish. Top speed is approximately 114 km/h. Acceleration is weak and cornering stability is poor, typical for commercial vehicles. The standard version seats 6: driver, front passenger, and 4 rear passengers.
In GTA 6, the Mule is expected to have similar performance, possibly with minor variations depending on modifications. The trailer suggests the van could be used for deliveries, hinting at a return of business missions similar to GTA Online.
Tuning and Customization
Currently, no exact information on tuning the Maibatsu Mule in GTA 6 is available. In GTA V and GTA Online, the Mule had limited customization at Los Santos Customs: body paint, wheel replacement, and minor cosmetic details. A modification called Mule Custom, added in the "After Hours" update for GTA Online, mounts machine guns and rocket launchers. Similar options may appear in Grand Theft Auto VI but this is unconfirmed.
Community rumors suggest possible armor plating and cargo bay variants for different goods. If Rockstar Games expands customization, the Mule could become a popular choice for players focusing on logistics.
Appearance in GTA 6
The Maibatsu Mule was spotted in the first official trailer of Grand Theft Auto 6, driving through Vice City streets. It also appears in game screenshots and promotional materials. The vehicle is expected to be used widely for cargo transport, possibly integrating into missions or business activities (as in GTA Online). The exact price and acquisition method in story mode remain undisclosed.