Quick Highlights:BYD to debut its first electric kei car at Japan Mobility Show 2025.Expected 20kWh battery pack with a 180 km range.Features include sliding doors, boxy design, and high interior space optimization.Launch expected in Japan by 2026 at a competitive price around JPY 2.5 million.BYD Unveils First Electric Kei Car for Japan, Debuting at Japan Mobility Show 2025BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle giant known for its premium offerings and cutting-edge technology, is set to make a historic entry into Japan's kei car market. Scheduled to debut at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2025, BYD will introduce its first-ever electric kei car, marking the first foreign-built electric vehicle in this unique Japanese segment. The launch is expected in 2026.The kei car segment in Japan is historically dominated by homegrown brands such as Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Honda, and Daihatsu. Known for their compact size, fuel efficiency, and urban-friendly design, kei cars are a staple in Japan's automotive landscape. BYD's entry is noteworthy as it aims to compete in a market where vehicles are meticulously optimized for tight city streets, tax benefits, and parking convenience.BYD’s First Electric Kei Car Spy ShotsFrom the available spy shots and teaser images, BYD's electric kei car embodies the classic design features associated with Japanese kei cars. It sports a tall, boxy silhouette optimized for maximum interior space, rectangular lighting elements, a flat front fascia, and a compact bonnet. The side profile reveals a flat roofline, double A-pillars, square windows, flat beltline, and circular wheel arches, all designed to enhance cabin space.One of the key highlights of BYD's kei car is the inclusion of sliding doors at the rear. Sliding doors are a popular feature in Japan as they facilitate easy ingress and egress, especially in tight parking spaces, and allow for convenient loading of luggage. This design is in line with competitors like the Suzuki Spacia and Honda N-Box.At the rear, the vehicle maintains a flat windshield, a top-mounted wiper, and a wide-opening boot lid, ensuring practical access to the cargo area. The short overhangs and wheels positioned at the corners further enhance the interior cabin space, which is a critical aspect for kei cars that prioritize comfort within a compact footprint.Internally, BYD's kei car appears to offer a practical, driver-friendly layout. Recent test images from China reveal a large touchscreen infotainment system and a first-row bench seat, an unusual yet functional choice that maximizes seating capacity within the compact frame.Technical SpecsUnder the hood, BYD has not officially confirmed all specifications, but reports indicate the kei car will feature a 20kWh battery pack. This setup is expected to deliver a range of approximately 180 km per charge under WLTC standards and support fast charging at up to 100 kW. Additionally, BYD may include a heat pump system to optimize cabin temperature and improve energy efficiency.Pricing is expected to be competitive, with the starting price projected at around JPY 2.5 million (approximately ₹14.38 lakh). This price point positions BYD’s entry-level kei car as a more affordable alternative to Japanese rivals such as the Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X EV, potentially attracting cost-conscious urban drivers.BYD’s Next StepsBYD’s strategic entry into Japan’s kei car segment is not only significant for the brand but also marks a new chapter in the evolution of the kei car market. Introduced in 1949 to support post-war economic recovery, kei cars have historically offered affordable, fuel-efficient, and easily maneuverable vehicles suitable for Japan’s urban environment. With the addition of electric powertrains, this segment is now evolving toward sustainable mobility solutions without compromising the core benefits of compact size and practicality.ConclusionBYD’s first electric kei car is poised to make a notable impact in Japan. With its practical design, efficient 20kWh battery, and competitive pricing, the vehicle is well-positioned to challenge established Japanese brands. The unveiling at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 will provide further insights into its features and performance, generating anticipation among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. BYD’s move signals a growing international interest in Japan’s kei car market and the increasing appeal of compact electric vehicles for urban mobility.