China's BYD launched the Racco, a kei passenger EV for the Japanese market, and recorded orders for 1,500 vehicles just over a month after its launch. Estimates suggest that, if this momentum continues for 12 months, orders could reach 18,000 vehicles annually.
China's BYD launched the Racco, a kei passenger EV for the Japanese market, on 28 July. Orders reached 1,500 vehicles by the end of August, just over a month after its launch, surpassing BYD's previous record for the month of August. Estimates indicated that, if this pace continued for a year, annual orders could theoretically reach approximately 18,000 vehicles.
The Racco is positioned in the super-height wagon category, which is highly popular in Japan's current market. Its strengths include a tall body, a spacious interior and family-friendly practicality. Test drivers focused on features that set it apart from Japanese kei EVs, including its comfortable ride, supported by a high-capacity battery.
The current market situation was explained, with gasoline-powered super-height wagons, led by the N-BOX, which has long held the top position in Japan's kei-car market, accounting for the leading models. The Racco is attracting attention as the first EV in this category. In this respect, BYD's model could signal a shift in the competitive landscape of the Japanese market.
Looking ahead, the possibility that the Racco could help BYD expand into Europe has been highlighted. The Racco's capabilities and its potential for market expansion will be key focuses of developments to come.