BYD is preparing to take its compact Racco electric car beyond its original market, with launches planned for two new destinations.
BYD is preparing to expand its compact Racco electric vehicle into additional right-hand-drive (RHD) markets, following its successful debut in Japan. The automaker has confirmed plans to introduce the small EV in Sri Lanka and Macau, marking the model’s first international expansion.
Order books for the BYD Racco have already opened in Macau, while its official launch in Sri Lanka is scheduled for October 9. The move highlights BYD’s growing interest in overseas markets where compact, city-focused vehicles are in demand.
The Racco was developed specifically for Japan and follows the country’s Kei car regulations, which impose strict limits on vehicle dimensions and power. Despite its compact size, the electric model has attracted strong customer interest, crossing 2,000 orders around two months after its introduction.
BYD is reportedly evaluating additional RHD markets for the Racco as part of its international expansion strategy. Its compact dimensions could make the model suitable for densely populated urban areas where parking space and maneuverability are major considerations.
The Racco measures 3,395 mm in length, 1,475 mm in width and 1,800 mm in height, while its wheelbase stretches to 2,520 mm. The four-seat EV also provides 280 litres of luggage capacity and has a 4.8-meter turning radius.
Power comes from a front-mounted electric motor producing 47 kW, or around 63 hp. BYD offers two LFP battery options with capacities of 22.4 kWh and 35.84 kWh. These provide WLTC driving ranges of approximately 210 km and 320 km, respectively.
The larger battery version is particularly notable because it makes the Racco the first electric Kei car to surpass 300 km of WLTC range. In Japan, the model starts at around 2.145 million yen.
The Racco currently competes with compact electric models such as the Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X EV. BYD’s overseas expansion could further increase competition in the growing urban EV segment, particularly across markets that use right-hand-drive vehicles.