Suzuki is set to launch its first electric kei car, the e SKY, on November 16. The vehicle will be priced at approximately ¥2.12 million, which is equivalent to about $13,500. This pricing positions the model as the lowest-cost electric vehicle in its segment within Japan.
The e SKY utilizes a dedicated kei EV platform and an electric drive system designed for efficiency. To reduce production costs, the vehicle incorporates lithium iron phosphate batteries supplied by the battery division of BYD. The car features a WLTC-rated driving range of up to 310 km and an energy consumption rating of 97 Wh/km.
The new model undercuts the BYD Racco, which currently starts at ¥2.145 million, or approximately $13,600. For comparison, the Nissan Sakura is priced from ¥2,448,600, or about $15,000. Suzuki notes that if the e SKY qualifies for government subsidies similar to its e-Every model, the price could align with the gas-powered Spacia.
BYD continues to expand its presence in the Japanese market, aiming to sell 10,000 Racco units by the end of 2026. The company recently reached a milestone of 10,000 cumulative domestic vehicle registrations. The Racco lineup includes models with 22.4 kWh and 35.84 kWh batteries, offering ranges between 210 km and 320 km.
