BYD Racco, set for surprise launch on July 28 targeting Japan's kei car market

*This content was translated by AI.

Chinese automaker BYD has officially unveiled the detailed specifications of its new model 'Racco,' a highly anticipated electric vehicle (EV) designed specifically for Japan's compact car market, signaling its full-scale entry. With an official launch scheduled for July 28, the Racco combines exceptional performance and luxurious features that surpass existing models while fully adhering to Japan's unique kei car regulations, drawing significant attention from the industry.

The Racco measures 3,395mm in length and 1,475mm in width, meeting all Japanese kei car standards. It adopts a 'super high wagon' style with a height of 1,800mm to ensure spacious interior room. Its most notable feature is the inclusion of an electric sliding door—the first for a compact EV—equipped with a hands-free function that projects a guide onto the ground, allowing users to open the door while carrying items in both hands. This design directly addresses the daily needs of Japanese consumers.

Driving performance also stands out. The Racco is offered in two trims based on battery capacity: the base '200' model features a 22.4kWh battery, delivering a WLTC-rated range of 210km in Japan, while the higher-tier '300' model is equipped with a 35.84kWh battery, achieving an impressive 320km range—the first time a compact EV has exceeded 300km. This significantly surpasses the Nissan Sakura's current popularity in Japan, which offers only 180km of range.

However, its fast-charging capability, capped at around 50kW, is considered a drawback. The need for frequent recharging during medium-to-long distance trips suggests it will likely serve as a second city car or a vehicle for short-distance deliveries, similar to the Sakura. When the second-row seats are fully folded, cargo space expands up to 1,372 liters, making it promising for last-mile logistics operations. Additional premium features include smartphone NFC keys, free charging card fees for three years, a preheating function to prevent battery performance degradation in winter, and insulated cup holders—specifications rarely seen in this class.

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*This content was translated by AI.