- The BYD Racco, the company’s first kei car, has been leaked ahead of its debut.
- The EV has an upright stance and styling inspired by rival Japanese kei cars.
- Reports suggest it will offer 112 miles of range and come with generous equipment.
BYD is getting ready to enter the kei car segment in Japan with a pint-sized EV named Racco. The model made an early appearance in leaked photos from a presentation event ahead of tomorrow’s debut at the Japan Mobility Show.
The first-ever kei car from a Chinese brand has notable similarities with rival models, given they have to adhere to strict, segment-specific rules.
The windowline and the fin-shaped pillars are strongly reminiscent of the outgoing generation of the Mitsubishi ek Space, while the headlights and overall stance are inspired by the Daihatsu Tanto.
More: Mitsubishi’s New Kei Van Channels Its Inner Pajero
The BYD Racco features a short hood, an upright windshield, sliding doors, flat sides, and a flat tail with an almost nonexistent rear overhang. It has a C-shaped LED lighting signature on both ends, and rides on 15-inch alloy wheels. Furthermore, it comes fitted with disc brakes on all four wheels.
While we have yet to learn the detailed specifications, kei car regulations permit a length of up to 3,400 mm (133.9 inches), a maximum width of 1,480 mm (58.3 inches), and a maximum height of 2,000 mm (78.7 inches).
Photos Dongchedi
According to reports, the electric model will offer the option between 20 kWh and 40 kWh battery packs, offering around 180 km (112 miles) of range.
It is also expected to be compatible with fast charging of up to 100 kW. The floor-mounted battery will give it a lower center of gravity compared to ICE-powered kei cars, improving handling.
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Inside, amenities will likely include a digital cockpit with a large infotainment system that is not usually found in the segment. We also expect a comprehensive ADAS suite and a heat pump for the A/C.
Sales of the BYD Racco will commence next year, with the pre-order period starting in the summer of 2026. The starting price of the kei car is estimated at around ¥2.5 million ($16,500), before subsidies. Electric rivals include the Nissan Sakura and the Mitsubishi eK X EV.
Besides the kei car, BYD will also unveil a new light commercial vehicle for the Japanese market at the same show. The BYD T35 features a cab-over design and will be available in box van and flatbed configurations with a fully electric powertrain.
