Japanese automotive brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Nissan have been among the slowest to transition to electric vehicles. However, in a nation renowned for its kei-car segment, an unheralded brand, KG Motors, is gaining recognition thanks to a tiny electric car.

The Mibot, priced at just 1 million yen (7,000 USD) – less than half the cost of Japan's best-selling electric vehicle, the Nissan Sakura – has garnered significant interest. After opening reservations in autumn 2024 in Japan, it received over 1,000 registrations in its first month. By 5/2025, the company had secured 2,250 orders, accounting for more than half of the 3,300 units it plans to deliver by 3/2027. KG recently announced the delivery of its first Mibot on 30/12/2025, ahead of schedule.

The first Mibot units have been delivered to customers by KG. Photo: Kote

According to the company, this model is still in its pre-production phase, but deliveries meet the same quality standards as the upcoming mass-produced models. KG is preparing for large-scale mass production to begin next April, and will continue to deliver a limited number of vehicles until then.

The Mibot is less than 2,5 m long and carries only one person. Photo: KG Motors

The Mibot is exceptionally compact, measuring just 2,490 mm long, 1,130 mm wide, and 1,465 mm high, with a 1,610 mm wheelbase, resembling a golf cart. Its small footprint, light weight (450 kg), and low maintenance costs make it ideal for daily urban commutes. It offers a range of up to 100 km per charge and a top speed of 60 km/h.

The vehicle features a single seat, a flat-bottom steering wheel, air conditioning, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and a rear luggage compartment large enough for two 18-liter water bottles. Connectivity features enable over-the-air software updates.

A 5 kW rear-mounted electric motor powers the Mibot, coupled with a 7,68 kWh LFP battery. A full charge takes approximately 5 h. The vehicle has a maximum payload capacity of 45 kg.

My Anh (according to Electrek)