BYD launches Racco electric kei car in Japan

Chinese automaker BYD unveiled its first electric kei‑car, the Racco, slated for sale in Japan on 28 July. The model is offered in three trims – 200, 300 Plus and 300 Premium – with battery capacities of 22.4 kWh (210 km WLTC range) and 35.84 kWh (up to 320 km WLTC range). At 3.395 m long, 1.475 m wide and 1.800 m high, the Racco fits Japan’s kei‑car dimensions and features a super‑height wagon body, electric side‑sliding doors, NFC key, heated seats, L2‑level ADAS, V2L power output and a 1 372‑litre cargo volume when the rear seats are folded.

Pricing is expected around ¥2.5 million (about ¥438 million VND). BYD hopes the vehicle will compete with domestic models such as Nissan’s Sakura, Honda’s N‑ONE e: and Mitsubishi’s eK X EV, though subsidies for Japanese EVs may favor local brands. The company also signalled interest in adapting the Racco for European markets, noting that its compact size and range could suit EU micro‑city car segments.

The launch marks BYD’s first foray into Japan’s regulated kei‑car segment, adding a new electric option to a market historically dominated by Japanese manufacturers.