BYD is set to enter one of Japan’s most tightly regulated and competitive segments with the Racco, its first electric vehicle developed exclusively to meet Japanese kei car standards. The vehicle will debut at the Japan Mobility Show and is scheduled for launch in Japan in summer 2026.
Built to meet the limits of the kei‑car category (length ≤ 3.4 m, width ≤ 1.48 m), the Racco measures around 3,395 mm long and 1,475 mm wide. Design features include sliding rear doors, a rarity in this class to enhance access in Japan’s narrow parking spaces.
Battery & performance
While full motor output and detailed drivetrain specs are not yet revealed, early reports state the Racco will be powered by a 20 kWh battery pack, delivering an estimated 180 km (112 miles) WLTC cycle range. A possible 40 kWh extended‑range variant may follow. The EV will support DC fast‑charging up to 100 kW, suitable for urban commuters.
Market positioning & pricing
BYD plans to price the Racco from about ¥2.6 million (approx. US $17,000) — positioning it directly against rivals such as the Nissan Sakura and Honda N‑Van EV. This move signals BYD’s ambition to establish a foothold in Japan’s kei‑car segment, which accounts for roughly one‑third of all new passenger vehicle sales in the country.
Strategic significance
BYD’s decision to build a kei‑car specifically for Japan (rather than exporting an existing model) underscores its localization strategy and belief in the Japanese small‑car market. Analysts view this as a potential “wake‑up call” to Japanese automakers that have long dominated the segment.
Summary
The BYD Racco represents a strategic and tailored attempt by BYD to crack Japan’s kei‑car market with a fully electric offering designed to meet local standards. With its compact footprint, sliding doors, practical driving range and competitive pricing, it aims to challenge established domestic models while riding the broader push toward electric mobility in urban Japan.
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