BYD Racco: BYD’s First Electric Kei Car for Japan
At the 2025 Tokyo Motor Show, BYD formally unveiled the BYD Racco, its first all-electric kei car, on October 29, 2025. The Racco name, which means “sea otter” in Japanese and represents agility and compactness, was created especially for the Japanese market. Next summer, the BYD Racco is expected to make its official debut in Japan.
BYD Racco Overview
Nearly one-third of the Japanese auto market is made up of kei cars, so BYD’s entry into this market is a calculated move to increase its EV presence in Japan.
It is anticipated that the BYD Racco will start at about 2.6 million yen, or $17,000 USD. It will join the Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal, and Sealion 7 as BYD’s fifth model in Japan upon launch.
For comparison, the Nissan Sakura and Honda N-Box are two of the most well-liked kei vehicles in Japan. For instance, the Nissan Sakura is a direct rival of the Racco, with a starting price of 2.53 million yen ($16,700 USD) and a 20 kWh battery with a 180 km range.
Related Posts:
BYD Racco Exterior Design
The BYD Racco retains the classic Japanese kei car design, characterized by a boxy silhouette and efficient space utilization.
- Dimensions: 3395 mm (length) × 1475 mm (width) × 1800 mm (height)
- Seating Capacity: 4 passengers
- Doors: 4 doors including rear sliding doors for easy access
While the rear displays a circular through-type taillight arrangement, the front design boasts a closed grille and recognizable C-shaped LED headlights. A contemporary and high-end touch is added by the illuminated BYD logo in the middle of the back.
BYD Racco Powertrain and Battery
Powering the BYD Racco is a front-mounted electric motor, coupled with a 20 kWh Blade (LFP) battery pack.
- Battery Type: BYD Blade (LFP)
- Capacity: 20 kWh
- Range: Approximately 180 km (WLTC)
- Charging: Supports 100 kW DC fast charging
Detailed performance figures, such as motor output and torque, have not yet been officially released.
BYD Racco Interior
Inside, the BYD Racco offers a clean and functional interior layout suitable for urban driving. Key features include:
- A digital instrument panel
- A central touchscreen display
- A three-spoke steering wheel
- Rectangular air-conditioning vents integrated into the dashboard
The cabin design emphasizes practicality, visibility, and ease of use—key priorities for Japanese kei car buyers.
The BYD Racco, which combines electric innovation, urban efficiency, and compact design, is the company’s daring entry into Japan’s cutthroat kei car market. The BYD Racco may soon gain popularity among environmentally conscious Japanese drivers thanks to its reasonable price, recognizable kei design, and dependable Blade battery technology.
