BYD launches RACCO kei EV to target Japanese market

BYD has launched the RACCO, a new electric vehicle (EV) specifically developed to meet Japanese kei car standards. Unlike previous foreign models adapted for the market, the RACCO is a purpose-built super height wagon. It features BYD’s proprietary X-PACK technology, which integrates the blade lithium iron phosphate battery with the control unit to optimize space and crash safety.

In August, Japanese domestic EV sales fell below 10,000 units for the first time in three months, totaling 9,838 units despite a significant year-on-year increase. While kei EVs currently account for only 0.6% of total passenger car sales, the RACCO has already secured approximately 1,500 orders. Full deliveries for the model are expected to begin in late September, potentially impacting the growth of the kei EV segment.