The automotive giant from China crashes Japan’s microcar party with the electric BYD Racco
BYD is preparing to make its move into one of Japan’s most tightly defined and popular vehicle segments with the Racco, a tiny EV that marks the brand’s first kei car. The pint-sized newcomer appeared early in leaked images from a presentation event ahead of its official debut at the Japan Mobility Show.
At first glance, the Racco doesn’t stray far from established kei design cues, and that’s no surprise given the strict size and proportion rules governing the segment.
The windowline and fin-shaped pillars echo the previous-generation Mitsubishi ek Space, while the headlights and stance appear to draw inspiration from the Daihatsu Tanto.
More: Mitsubishi’s New Kei Van Channels Its Inner Pajero
The Racco features a short hood, upright windshield, sliding doors, flat sides, and a near-vertical rear end with almost no 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.
Although full specifications remain under wraps, kei car regulations cap length at 3,400 mm (133.9 inches), width at 1,480 mm (58.3 inches), and height at 2,000 mm (78.7 inches). That narrow framework defines both the design and the packaging strategy behind every model in this uniquely Japanese category.
Powertrain Specs
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.
BYD plans to open pre-orders for the Racco in the summer of 2026, with sales commencing shortly after. Pricing is estimated to start at around ¥2.5 million ($16,500) before subsidies, positioning it squarely against the Nissan Sakura and 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.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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