BYD Auto Japan, based in Yokohama, Kanagawa, has started selling the “BYD RACCO”. This new electric vehicle (EV) was designed to fit the strict specifications of kei cars, Japanese mini-vehicles. The company claims to be the pioneer among foreign automakers to launch an EV designed specifically for this segment in Japan, with prices starting at 2,145,000 yen. All models qualify for a 150,000 yen government subsidy, making the final price even more competitive in the local market and marking a significant step for BYD into a market traditionally dominated by local manufacturers.
Technical details and innovations of the new RACCO model
The RACCO’s body design is notably tall, incorporating electric sliding doors on both sides for easy access. Its basis is “e-Platform 3.0”, an exclusive platform for electric vehicles from BYD. The model integrates a lithium iron phosphate battery with “CTB” (Cell to Body) technology, where the battery becomes part of the vehicle structure itself.
A further innovation is the “X-PACK” technology, which brings together the battery, electronic control unit, on-board charger and high-voltage power distribution system. Even with the size restrictions of mini kei car vehicles, the RACCO was designed to offer ample internal space and impact absorption capacity, prioritizing safety and comfort.
BYD positions RACCO as the “first global SDV-based light electric vehicle” (Software Defined Vehicle). This feature allows the car to receive software updates remotely, via OTA (Over The Air), meaning that its functions and operability can be continuously improved after purchase.
RACCO autonomy versions and capabilities
The RACCO family is presented in two model configurations and three versions: the RACCO 200, which is the entry-level option, the RACCO 300Plus, as an intermediate model, and the RACCO 300Premium, at the top of the line. The sales values are 2,145,000 yen, 2,398,000 yen and 2,497,000 yen, respectively. According to test data from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the RACCO 200 has a range of 210 km per charge, while the 300Plus and 300Premium versions reach 320 km. Six body color options are available.
Warranty and extension options for the vehicle
BYD offers a new vehicle warranty that covers the body and essential driving components for a period of six years or up to 150,000 km. As for the traction components and the battery of the electrical system, coverage extends for eight years or 160,000 km. During this time, the battery’s minimum capacity is guaranteed to be 70% of the original. There is the possibility of extending the warranty to ten years or 200,000 km, at an additional cost of 18,000 yen.
Special conditions of the “Racco Rakutto” financing plan
To facilitate the purchase, the company also launched the “Racco Rakutto Plan”, a fixed-rate financing plan. Through it, it is possible to purchase the RACCO 200 model without the need for a down payment or additional payments, with a five-year installment plan and a residual value of 50%. Considering the government subsidy of 150,000 yen for electric vehicles, which helps with the purchase of clean energy vehicles, the monthly fee can reach 19,300 yen, divided into 60 installments.
