The right-hand drive BYD Racco mini electric vehicle is set to officially debut in the Japanese market on 28/7, according to EV-Times. This latest product from the Chinese automaker aims to enter the strictly protected kei car segment in Japan. To prepare for the launch, BYD has rolled out advertising videos featuring renowned actress Alice Hirose and the slogan "Racco Raku".

The Racco features a length of 3,395 mm, a width of 1,475 mm, and a height of 1,800 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,520 mm. Its optimized interior space design targets daily commuters in suburban areas. Previously, BYD also introduced the Sealion 6 crossover in this market.

The Chinese kei car BYD Racco is set to go on sale in Japan. Photo: BYD

This compact electric vehicle offers two battery options. The Racco 200 version uses a 22,4 kWh battery for a range of 210 km on a full charge (according to Japan's WLTC test standard). Meanwhile, the higher-end Racco 300 features a 35,84 kWh battery, extending the range to 320 km, surpassing the initial test figures of the prototype. The vehicle supports fast charging with a maximum power of 50 kW at public charging stations.

The Racco's 50 kW fast charging capability is comparable to its rival, the Honda N-One e:, and superior to the Nissan Sakura's 30 kW. However, pressure from Japanese domestic automakers has forced BYD to revise its pricing strategy. Although low production costs would allow for cheaper pricing, the model settled on an adjusted starting price of 120,000 yuan (approximately 17,700 USD).

Traditional rivals in Japan, especially Suzuki, have long viewed BYD's newcomer as a significant threat to their dominant position in the kei car segment. To overcome domestic barriers, BYD appointed a former Nissan expert to its regional strategy executive board. In return for the adjusted price, higher-end versions of the Racco will feature electric sliding doors with integrated kick sensors, a convenience appearing for the first time in this segment.

Regarding versatility, the vehicle's rear seats can fold completely flat, expanding cargo capacity to 1,372 liters, suitable for delivery needs. The cabin also integrates an NFC digital key, an automatic battery warming system for winter, and heated cup holders.

BYD's stable domestic sales growth in China strongly supports this international market expansion project. Data from China EV DataTracker for June shows that the Yuan UP series led the compact vehicle segment with 17,945 vehicles delivered (up 5,3%), followed by the Song Pro DM-i with 17,439 vehicles, while the Sealion 06 and Qin Plus EV achieved sales of 16,843 and 13,726 vehicles, respectively.

My Anh