Business Desk 
Oct 28, 2025
China’s BYD is poised to enter Japan’s kei-car market with a fully electric K-Car that adheres to strict kei-car regulations, traditionally dominated by Japanese manufacturers such as Toyota and Honda.
This new model retains the classic kei-car design, characterised by boxy proportions, short overhangs, and sliding doors, providing urban commuters with an eco-friendly option.
BYD K-Car specifications
The K-Car is powered by a 20 kWh Blade LFP battery, providing a WLTC range of approximately 180 km (around 112 miles), suitable for daily city driving.
It features fast-charging capabilities of up to 100 kW and incorporates a heat-pump AC system, enhancing efficiency across various climates.
Key design features include a floating roof, expansive windows, and contemporary circular lighting fixtures.
Kei-cars account for roughly 38% of Japan's domestic sales, benefiting from tax breaks and low running costs.
BYD’s entry represents the first time a foreign company has developed a kei-car from the ground up, challenging the longstanding dominance of local brands and pushing them to accelerate their own electric vehicle initiatives.
BYD K-Car price (expected)
The anticipated price of BYD K-Car is around ¥2.5 million (approximately $17,000), making it competitive with models like the Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X EV.
BYD plans to showcase the K-Car at the Japan Mobility Show on October 30, 2025, with an official market launch expected in the second half of 2026, giving the company time to finalise production and meet regulatory requirements.
