At the Japan Mobility Show 2025 held at Tokyo Big Sight on October 29, 2025, BYD Japan Group, a major Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, unveiled the world premiere of the prototype of “RACCO,” the company’s first electric vehicle that complies with light vehicle standards.
BYD’s first light electric vehicle, RACCO, will make its world debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2025
The new Sea Otter is BYD’s first overseas model, designed exclusively for the Japanese market, and is scheduled for release in the summer of 2026. Based on BYD’s corporate philosophy of “lowering the earth’s temperature by 1°C,” it is an ambitious product equipped with the latest blade battery technology.
Features of the new Sea Otter | New value created by combining a minicar and an EV
Cute name and friendly design
The new addition to BYD’s “Ocean Series,” “RACCO,” is named after a marine creature, just like existing models such as the sea lion and seal. The catchy and familiar name is a strategy aimed at brand penetration in the Japanese market.
Practicality of a super-height wagon style
The new Otter adopts the style of a light super height wagon, which is popular in Japan. It is designed with competing models such as the Daihatsu Tanto, Honda N-BOX, Suzuki Spacia, Nissan Roox, and Mitsubishi Delica Mini in mind, and is equipped with a convenient sliding door in the rear seat.
A low center of gravity and spacious interior space unique to EVs
Taking advantage of the characteristics of an electric vehicle without a front engine, the new Sea Otter’s hood has been designed to be lower than that of competing mini tall wagons. By installing the battery unit under the body, the overall height and center of gravity are kept low, improving stability at high speeds.
In addition, because there is no need for an engine room, it is possible to significantly increase the livability inside the vehicle, and it is expected to have a “fairly spacious and roomy space” compared to other competing light tall wagons.
Typical tire size
The new Sea Otter uses 165/65R15 inch tires, a rare size for a minicar (the 15-inch tires on the N-BOX and Delica Mini are 165/55R15 inch). By making the outer diameter slightly larger, the car’s overall height does not appear too low.
Furthermore, the adoption of four-wheel disc brakes, which is rare for a light vehicle, improves handling and braking performance.
Pricing for the new Otter | Starting from the low 2 million yen range with subsidies
Estimated price (before subsidies)
According to previous leaks, the base price of the new Sea Otter is as follows:
- Base model (25kWh) : 2.49 million yen
- Long range (40kWh) : 2.99 million yen
*Please note that these prices are not officially announced by BYD JAPAN, but are estimated prices provided by car media.
Actual price after applying EV subsidies
The effective purchase price can be further reduced by taking advantage of the EV subsidy (CEV subsidy):
- Base model : Approximately 2.14 million yen (after applying a subsidy of approximately 350,000 yen)
- Long range : Approximately 2.64 million yen (after applying a subsidy of approximately 350,000 yen)
Equipped with the latest EV powertrain, the car is priced from just under 2 million yen, giving it a very competitive positioning in the minicar market.
Specifications and range | Designed with practicality in mind
Body size
- Total length : 3,395mm
- Overall width : 1,475mm
- Overall height : 1,800mm
While adhering strictly to the light vehicle standards, it offers the spacious interior space that only a super high-roof wagon can offer.
Powertrain
- Drive system : Front-wheel drive (FWD)
- Maximum motor output : 64ps (self-imposed limit for light vehicles)
- Motor maximum torque : 18.4 kgm
Due to self-regulations for light vehicles, maximum output is limited to 64ps, but the large torque that is generated from low rotation speeds, a characteristic of electric motors, provides a powerful acceleration feeling.
Battery capacity and range
| grade | Battery capacity | Cruising range (WLTC estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Base model | 25kWh | Approximately 240km |
| Long Range | 40kWh | Approximately 370km |
Blade Battery Safety and Efficiency
The new Sea Otter is equipped with BYD’s proprietary lithium phosphate battery, the “Blade Battery.” This innovative battery has the following features:
- High safety : The structure is resistant to ignition and fire even when subjected to a strong impact, such as penetrating the battery pack.
- High energy density : The thin, long, sword-like shape improves space efficiency and extends the cruising range.
- Improved structural strength : By making the battery cells themselves components of the battery pack, the vehicle body strength is also improved.
- Temperature control system : Equipped with a management system and heat pump system that maintains a constant battery temperature regardless of whether the environment is tropical or cold.
Supports V2L and V2H, making it useful in disasters and outdoor activities
The new Raccoon is compatible with V2L (Vehicle to Load) and V2H (Vehicle to Home), allowing it to supply power during power outages and use home appliances outdoors, such as when camping. This functionality will be a major advantage in Japan, a country prone to disasters.
Advanced equipment and comfort features | Comprehensive equipment designed with the competition in mind
The specific equipment of the new Sea Otter is yet to be officially announced, but if it is to compete with the Spacia series, Delica Mini, N-BOX, etc., it is highly likely that the following equipment will be adopted:
Infotainment Connectivity
- Full LCD meter
- 12.3-inch navigation display
- Android Auto / Apple CarPlay compatible
- Digital inner mirror
Comfortable equipment
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Rear seat electric power sliding doors (left and right)
- Seatback table
- Ceiling circulator
- LED room lamp
- Reservation lock function
Driving related
- Driving mode switching (ECO / NORMAL / POWER)
- Regenerative braking adjustment function
Safety equipment | The latest preventive safety technology is standard equipment
The new Sea Otter will come standard with BYD’s latest safety systems:
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Navigation Pilot : Single-lane driving assistance system
- Blind Spot Information (BSM) : A detection system that supports blind spots
- Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) : 360-degree camera system
- Automatic emergency braking system : with pedestrian and vehicle detection
- Lane Departure Warning and Assist System
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Although it is a light vehicle, it comes standard with safety equipment on par with that of higher-end vehicles, providing a safe driving environment for drivers of all ages.
Exterior design | Advanced styling unique to EVs
Front design
The front design of the new Otter has a mild taste similar to the standard body of the Daihatsu Tanto. The adoption of an EV powertrain minimizes engine cooling, so the opening of the front grille has been reduced to reduce aerodynamic resistance.
This design allows for longer range and quieter operation.
Rear design
The rear is square-styled, ensuring a spacious interior efficiently. The rear combination lamps have a horizontal design, giving it a modern, highly visible finish.
Design variations by grade
According to leaked information, the exterior design of the new Sea Otter may differ depending on the grade. The higher grades are expected to feature a more masculine front mask and accent colors.
Release Date and Sales Strategy | Launch in the Japanese market in summer 2026
Release Schedule
- October 29, 2025 : World premiere of prototype at Japan Mobility Show 2025
- Spring 2026 : Advance reservations are scheduled to begin
- Summer 2026 (around July) : Official release
When advance reservations begin, specific specifications, vehicle prices, and quotation preparation are expected to become clear.
Sales Strategy
The new Sea Otter will be an important model for BYD as it enters the Japanese market. By offering a new EV option in the minicar market, which sells approximately 1.8 million units annually in Japan, BYD aims to increase brand awareness and expand its market share.
BYD also holds approximately 70% of the market share for electric buses in Japan, and is expected to build a sales and after-sales service system that leverages its track record and network.
Comparison with competing models | Positioning in the light EV market
Comparison with existing light gasoline vehicles
The main competitors for the new Sea Otter are the following light super height wagons:
- Honda N-BOX : The most popular minicar in terms of sales
- Daihatsu Tanto : Well-known for its spacious interior and ease of use
- Suzuki Spacia : Equipped with a mild hybrid system for excellent fuel economy
- Nissan Roox : Full of advanced safety features
- Mitsubishi Delica Mini : Features an SUV feel
Compared to these gasoline-powered vehicles, the new Sea Otter has the following differentiating features:
- Low running costs : Electricity costs are about 1/3 of gasoline costs
- Quietness : Extremely quiet thanks to motor drive
- Acceleration performance : Powerful torque from low speeds
- Environmental performance : Zero CO2 emissions while driving
- Low center of gravity for stable driving
Pioneering in the light EV market
Currently, pure battery EVs are very limited in the Japanese minicar market. Nissan has released the commercial minivan “Sakura,” but the new Otter could be the de facto pioneer of super high-roof wagon-type mini EVs.
Taking advantage of this early advantage, the company is expected to become a driving force behind the new trend of “electric minicars.”
The compatibility of minicars and BEVs | Why they’re an ideal combination
Ideal range for everyday use
Many light vehicle users mainly use their car for relatively short trips, such as daily shopping, commuting, and transportation. With a range of 370km, the new Sea Otter long-range model can easily cover daily use with just one or two charges per week.
The perfect second car
Many families use a light vehicle as a second car. By leaving long-distance travel to the first car and using an electric vehicle for short-distance travel, household fuel costs can be significantly reduced.
Compatible with home charging
In regional cities with a high proportion of detached houses, it is easy to install charging equipment at home, and cheap charging is possible using late-night electricity. Starting the day with a fully charged battery is one of the benefits of EVs.
The BYD brand | World’s top EV manufacturer
BYD’s track record
BYD is an electric vehicle manufacturer headquartered in Shenzhen, China, which was founded as a battery business. Its track record is as follows:
- Selling EV passenger cars and commercial vehicles in over 70 countries and regions worldwide
- Captures approximately 70% of the Japanese EV bus market
- It will surpass Tesla to become the world’s top EV seller in the first half of 2022
- Establishment of a joint venture with Toyota : Partnering to develop EVs for the Chinese market in 2020
High level of technical ability
BYD’s greatest strength is its vertically integrated system, which allows it to develop and produce everything from batteries to vehicles. Its blade battery technology in particular is highly regarded in the industry, achieving both safety and energy density.
After-sales service system in the Japanese market
BYD Japan is currently expanding its sales and service network nationwide. Further expansion of bases is expected in line with the release of the new Sea Otter. Utilizing the know-how cultivated in the EV bus business, a system is being put in place to provide comprehensive after-sales service.
Future Outlook | The Beginning of Japan’s Light EV Market
Response from Japanese manufacturers
The launch of the new Sea Otter may encourage Japanese automakers to accelerate the development of light super-height wagon-type BEVs. In particular, attention will be focused on the trends of manufacturers with a strong presence in light vehicles, such as Honda, Daihatsu, and Suzuki.
Development of charging infrastructure
As the market for light EVs expands, charging infrastructure will likely be further developed nationwide. In particular, we expect to see an increase in charging stations at shopping centers and roadside stations in regional and suburban areas.
Continuation of EV subsidy program
The government aims to achieve a 100% electrified vehicle ratio for new car sales by 2035, and is expected to continue subsidies for EV purchases. Converting minicars to EVs will be an important step toward achieving this goal.
Summary | The new Sea Otter is a new option in the light vehicle market
The BYD New Sea Otter has the potential to bring a breath of fresh air to the Japanese minicar market. Here are some of its appealing features:
- Affordable pricing : Starting from the low 2 million yen range with subsidies
- Practical range : up to 370km, sufficient for everyday use
- Spacious interior : EV-specific design provides more space than competitors
- Low center of gravity for stable driving : safe even on highways
- Full safety and comfort equipment : specifications on par with luxury cars
- Environmental performance : Zero CO2 emissions while driving
- Low running costs : Electricity costs are about 1/3 of gasoline
We look forward to hearing more about the new Sea Otter as it approaches its official launch in the summer of 2026. This ideal combination of a light vehicle and an EV will offer a new option for mobility in Japan.
This is a car that everyone is looking forward to, with advance orders opening and detailed specifications being announced.
We will
update this article as soon as we receive the latest information on the new type of sea otter.
