Core Viewpoint - The N-BOX has maintained its position as the best-selling new car in Japan for three consecutive years, with projected sales of approximately 200,000 units in 2024. The introduction of electric versions by both Honda and BYD is expected to enhance the competitiveness of lightweight EVs in the Japanese market [1][3]. Group 1: N-BOX Sales and Market Position - The N-BOX is projected to achieve sales of around 200,000 units in Japan in 2024, surpassing the Toyota Corolla, and has been the top-selling model for three consecutive years [1][3]. - The N-BOX has accumulated total sales of approximately 3 million units since its first generation was launched in 2011, supported by its spacious interior and affordable price starting from 1.7 million yen [3]. Group 2: Electric Vehicle (EV) Market Dynamics - Honda plans to launch a pure electric version of the N-BOX by the fiscal year 2027, while BYD aims to introduce its lightweight EV in Japan by the summer of 2026, ahead of Honda [1][6]. - The current market share of EVs in Japan is around 2%, which is the lowest among developed countries, indicating significant room for growth [4]. - The lightweight EVs, such as Nissan's "Sakura" and Mitsubishi's "eK Cross EV," are expected to account for over 40% of EV sales in 2024, highlighting the compatibility of lightweight vehicles with urban mobility needs [4]. Group 3: Incentives and Regulations - In Japan, purchasing lightweight EVs comes with subsidies and tax reductions in the second year of ownership, which could accelerate their adoption if prices can be brought down to levels comparable to gasoline vehicles [4].

Core Insights - BYD unveiled its lightweight electric vehicle prototype "RACCO" at the Japan Mobility Show, planning to launch it in the Japanese market by summer 2026, marking its first independently developed model for overseas markets [2] - The vehicle dimensions are 3395×1475×1800 mm, designed to accommodate four passengers, targeting the "super high roof" segment that holds over 50% of the Japanese lightweight vehicle market share [2] - The RACCO features front-wheel drive, lithium iron phosphate batteries, and dual sliding doors in the rear, differentiating it from competitors like Nissan's "Sakura" and Honda's "N-ONE e:" [2] - BYD plans to offer both standard and long-range versions of the vehicle, aimed at daily commuting and outdoor travel, with an expected price range of around 2 million yen [2] - The specific battery capacity and range have not yet been disclosed [2] - BYD's Japan President, Atsuki Tofukuji, noted the rapid growth in demand for lightweight electric vehicles amid Japan's aging population, emphasizing the need for models that meet local market characteristics and competitive pricing strategies [2] - Lightweight vehicles account for approximately 40% of new car sales in Japan, a segment traditionally challenging for foreign automakers to penetrate [2] - BYD's entry into the market is expected to intensify competition in the lightweight electric vehicle sector, currently dominated by Nissan's "Sakura" and Mitsubishi's "eK X EV" [2]

Group 1 - AEON, a Japanese retail group, plans to establish a sales partnership with BYD by 2025, setting up sales points for BYD electric vehicles in approximately 30 commercial facilities and department stores across Japan [1] - AEON will implement pricing strategies, including discounts and promotional incentives, allowing consumers to purchase BYD electric vehicles starting at around 2 million yen (approximately 94,000 RMB) [1] - AEON aims to achieve independent import and sales of BYD electric vehicles in the future, currently managing 164 shopping centers in Japan [1] Group 2 - The collaboration between BYD and AEON may disrupt the traditional Japanese automotive distribution market, which has been dominated by local manufacturers and dealerships [2] - AEON operates around 2,500 electric vehicle charging stations across its 374 stores in Japan, potentially addressing infrastructure limitations for electric vehicles [2] - In the first half of the 2025 fiscal year, Japanese domestic sales of pure electric passenger vehicles were approximately 28,500 units, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 3%, but still representing only about 1% of total new car sales [2] Group 3 - In September, BYD achieved a record sales figure in Japan, selling 802 units, which is a year-on-year increase of approximately three times, capturing about 20% of the country's imported pure electric vehicle market [3] - BYD plans to launch a new pure electric light vehicle specifically designed for the Japanese market in 2026 [3] - Despite BYD's growth, Japanese domestic electric vehicles, such as Nissan's Sakura and Leaf, continue to lead in sales within the electric vehicle market [3]