BYD, the world’s leading New Energy Vehicle (NEV) manufacturer, launched the ‘Racco’ electric microcar in Sri Lanka last Friday (9), marking the first international entry of the vehicle outside Japan, following its debut in July.
Setting sights on extending the ‘Racco’ to other right-hand-drive (RHD) markets similar to Japan, the Chinese automaker is confident the model’s reception in Japan could encourage interest among Sri Lankan motorists, who have a longstanding familiarity with vehicles associated with the Japanese market.
Explaining why Sri Lanka was selected as the first country outside Japan to introduce this model, BYD Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division Deputy General Manager Ketsu Zhang told Mirror Business that Sri Lanka is a key market, as BYD considers it as a hub or base for South Asia. “Sri Lanka, though not a huge market, holds a strategic place in BYD’s regional outlook for South Asia. Sri Lanka was also the first South Asian market, where BYD premium sub-brand Denza’s models B5 and B8 were launched.
“Through the partnership with John Keells CG Auto, our presence in the country has expanded rapidly over the past couple of years. Sri Lanka’s transition towards new energy mobility has been admirable, and this latest addition will no doubt be a great success with the current market trends and potential.
“Designed with a compact profile, practical sliding doors and an all-electric powertrain, the Racco is set to bring a fresh perspective to everyday mobility in Sri Lanka,” he added.
Though BYD hasn’t officially announced Racco’s next steps, it is likely to enter space-conscious Right-Hand-Drive (RHD) markets where KEI cars are already accepted. One potential market could be Hong Kong, where Japanese automaker Suzuki has established a KEI car foothold with the Hustler, Jimny, and Carry. The Racco is being currently demonstrated and showcased to buyers in Macau.
Commenting on BYD’s success story in Sri Lanka, John Keells CG Auto Chief Executive Officer, Charith Panditharatne said, “We still maintain the number one position in the brand new market segment, and have delivered over 15,000 cars to customers following the lifting of vehicle import restrictions last year, and currently hold a market share of 30.7 percent. We are excited to introduce the Racco to Sri Lanka, which is an addition to BYD’s local offering. Racco arrives in Sri Lanka on the back of a strong track record in Japan, one of the world’s most demanding automotive markets, where it was purpose-built to meet the country’s strict KEI car standards for safety, efficiency and smart use of space. It is a vehicle ideal for households and small businesses.”
One of the key trends in Sri Lanka’s Electric Vehicle (EV) market is the increase in EV brands and their models that has led to a rise in competition. Panditharatne noted that the EV market is expected to get tougher going forward, and expressed confidence that BYD will remain number one. He urged authorities to take immediate action on grey imports, ensuring a level-playing field.
The Racco was unveiled simultaneously in Colombo, Kandy and Galle, at the same time, on the same day, a feat no other car brand has previously attempted in the country. The three-city launch signifies BYD’s commitment to making Racco accessible to customers across Sri Lanka from day one, rather than limiting its debut to one city alone.
John Keells CG Auto announced that the Racco will be available at an introductory price of Rs. 11.45 million, until 9 November 2026.
