BYD Launches Japan-Exclusive Electric Kei Car "Haita" Priced from ¥2.145M to ¥2.497M

BYD officially launched its Japan-specific all-electric kei car, the "Haita" (RACCO), in Japan on July 28. Offered in three trim levels, it is priced between ¥2,145,000 and ¥2,497,000 (approximately RMB 88,800–103,300). The base model, the 200, features a 22.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery, delivering a WLTC range of 210 km. Both the mid-tier 300+ and top-tier 300 Premium trims are equipped with a larger 35.84 kWh battery, achieving a WLTC range of 320 km—making the Haita the first Japanese light-duty EV to exceed 300 km of WLTC range. All variants comply with Japan’s kei car regulations, measuring 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide, and 1,800 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,490 mm. They feature right-hand drive, four-seat layout, and a column-mounted gear shifter. Six exterior colors are available, with the top trim exclusively offering a gemstone red hue and premium synthetic leather seats. Notably, it also includes a rear electric sliding door—a rarity in this segment. The vehicle supports 50 kW DC fast charging and offers V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) and V2H (Vehicle-to-Home) external power supply functions, enabling household electricity support during emergencies or disasters. Compared to current mainstream Japanese light EVs—the Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X EV (both equipped with 20 kWh batteries, offering 180 km WLTC range, and priced between ¥2,333,000 and ¥2,940,000)—the Haita’s entry-level version starts at roughly ¥190,000 less while providing 30 km more range. At similar price points, the mid-tier Haita delivers 140 km more range and significantly faster charging capability than its rivals. When compared to the best-selling gasoline-powered kei car, the Honda N-Box (starting at around ¥1,739,000, powered by a 660 cc engine, and projected to exceed 200,000 units sold in 2025), the Haita differentiates itself through advanced tech features such as a floating central touchscreen, NFC key access, and foot-activated sliding doors. BYD states that approximately 90% of the Haita’s components are self-manufactured, allowing cost efficiencies that translate into strong value-for-money positioning.