Suzuki Launches Affordable Mini EV Using BYD Batteries
Suzuki's new e SKY electric car aims to be Japan's cheapest mini EV, undercutting competitor BYD with a starting price of approximately $13,500.
Suzuki's new e SKY electric car aims to be Japan's cheapest mini EV, undercutting competitor BYD with a starting price of approximately $13,500.
· Updated
Suzuki is entering Japan's electric mini car market with the upcoming launch of its first electric kei car, the e SKY, on November 16. The vehicle is slated to start at around 2.12 million yen, approximately $13,500, positioning it as the most affordable EV in its category. This price point is slightly lower than BYD's Racco EV, which currently holds the title of the cheapest mini EV at 2.145 million yen ($13,600).
The e SKY is designed with a dedicated kei EV platform and electric drive system to maximize efficiency, offering a WLTC driving range of up to 310 km (192 miles) and a low energy consumption rating. Notably, Suzuki is utilizing lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries supplied by BYD's battery division to help reduce costs.
While government subsidies are yet to be confirmed, if the e SKY qualifies for the same subsidy as Suzuki's commercial kei EV, the e-Every, its final cost could be comparable to the Spacia, Suzuki's popular gasoline-powered kei car which starts at just under $10,000.
BYD's Racco EV offers various models with different battery capacities and ranges. The Racco 200 model features a 22.4 kWh battery and a 210 km (130 miles) WLTC range, while higher trims come with a 35.84 kWh battery and up to 320 km (199 miles) of range. Both the Suzuki e SKY and BYD Racco are expected to be more competitively priced and offer longer ranges than the Nissan Sakura, which starts at approximately $15,000.
FAQ
What is the starting price of the Suzuki e SKY?
The Suzuki e SKY is expected to start at around 2.12 million yen, which is approximately $13,500.
Which company supplies the batteries for the Suzuki e SKY?
The Suzuki e SKY uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries supplied by BYD's battery unit.
