China's BYD rolls out ultracompact EV to challenge Japan's minicar market

TOKYO - China's BYD Co. on Tuesday launched a new ultracompact electric vehicle developed specifically for Japanese customers to challenge the country's minicar market, long dominated by domestic automakers.

The Racco, standing 180 centimeters tall, has ample interior space, as the Chinese leading EV maker aims to meet strong demand for tall minicars in Japan's competitive segment, which accounts for around 40 percent of new vehicle sales.