BYD Racco heads to Japan to challenge Honda N-One; 320 km range, big cargo space, and estimated to start at 2.5m JPY (~RM 63k)

BYD is set to launch the Racco in Japan on 28 July, marking a direct move into the country’s protected kei-car segment with a right-hand-drive electric mini car designed for urban and suburban use.

The Racco is BYD’s latest attempt to challenge long-established Japanese brands in a category dominated by local nameplates from companies such as Suzuki, Nissan and Mitsubishi. The model has already been promoted in Japan through advertising featuring actress Alice Hirose under the “Racco Raku” slogan.

Sized to fit kei-car expectations, the Racco measures 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide and 1,800 mm tall, with a 2,520 mm wheelbase. That packaging is intended to maximise cabin space for daily commuting and city use, while still keeping the footprint compact enough for crowded Japanese streets.

Two battery choices will be offered. The Racco 200 uses a 22.4 kWh battery and is rated at 210 km of range under Japan’s WLTC cycle. The higher-spec Racco 300 gets a larger 35.84 kWh battery and extends claimed driving range to 320 km.

Charging capability is another key part of the launch strategy. BYD says the Racco supports up to 50 kW DC fast charging at public stations, which matches the Honda N-One e: and is faster than the 30 kW figure associated with the Nissan Sakura.

Pricing has also been adjusted in response to the competitive pressure from Japanese makers. The Racco is now expected to start at around 2.5 million JPY, (about RM 63k), aimed at making the model more viable in a market where domestic brands remain strongly protected.

Equipment on higher trims is where BYD is trying to stand out. Top versions of the Racco will feature electric sliding doors with a foot-sensing function, a first for the segment, giving the model a practical differentiator over many kei-car rivals.

The cabin is also packed with practical features. BYD says the rear seats can fold completely flat to create up to 1,372 litres of cargo space, while the interior also includes an NFC digital key, a battery pre-heating system for cold weather and heated cup holders.