BYD launches kei EV in Japan

BYD has launched its first kei-class electric vehicle in Japan, with the new Racco priced from about NZ$22,000.

The Racco is the first kei car developed by a non-Japanese manufacturer and is aimed at Japan’s highly competitive market for compact city vehicles.

The entry-level model is powered by a 22kWh battery, providing a claimed driving range of up to 210km under the WLTC test cycle.

Higher-spec variants feature a 35kWh battery, increasing the claimed range to 320km.

Power comes from a front-mounted electric motor producing 47kW and 160Nm, while charging is rated at up to 6kW AC and 50kW DC.

At 3395mm long, the Racco meets Japan’s kei car regulations but still offers 280 litres of boot space, expanding to 1372 litres with the rear seats folded.

The cabin features an 8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, with higher-spec models receiving a 12.3-inch display. The vehicle also supports over-the-air software updates.

Whether the Racco will be offered in New Zealand remains unclear.

BYD New Zealand general manager Warren Willmot previously told NZ Autocar the company had not ruled out introducing the model locally.

“You never say never,” says Willmot.

“If we can make the numbers work and it makes sense for the market, we’d look at it. But it has to be at a viable price point and deliver value for dealers.”