In May, a new small hatchback BYD model in the right-hand-drive configuration was spotted in camouflage while parked at a testing facility.
Now, a video of this EV has been shared by Thinkercar on X, showing the car undertaking more testing and highlighting some key new details.Ā
In the video, the potential upcoming model is seen doing a U-turn, where the front horizontal daytime running lights can be seen through the camouflaged front bumper.
These lights also acts as indicator lights which are spotted when the driver indicates left to do the U-turn.
Just prior to turning around, the location of the steering wheel is also spotted as being that of a right-hand-drive car.
Thatās the same side as that seen on the earlier sighting, just over a month ago.
From the side, there are black wheel hubcaps on this prototype, which also appear to be around 14-inch wheels.
During the U-turn, the rear of the narrow-body car is also spotted, which comes with a relatively boxy rear end. Small indicator lights are also seen halfway up the car’s height.
As per previous sightings, this boxy small car being tested looks a lot like the small hatchbacks sold in Japan, also known as āKeiā cars.Ā
These very popular models sell quite well there, thanks to the compact yet practical design, ideal for narrower streets and tight carparks.
Another reason behind this body being so popular is how affordable they are, making them quite popular with younger buyers too.
Given many of the Kei car models are powered by an engine with up to 660 cc of capacity, an electric variant under works by BYD could really help put the NEV brand on Japanese consumersā shortlist in the coming years.
BYDās Japanese sales have been on the upward trend since its launch in the market. In 2024, the company sold 2,223 cars in the country. That was mainly thanks to its Atto 3, Seal and Dolphin.Ā
Given that BYDās compact hatchback, the Seagull, is not currently offered in Japan, the potential upcoming microcar from the brand could be an ideal product for that market.
On top of that, it could be a model that the company sells in many other countries, helping it further grow its lineup of globally available products.
RizĀ is the founder of carloop based in Melbourne, specialising in Australian EV data, insight reports and trends. He is a mechanical engineer who spent the first 7 years of his career building transport infrastructure before starting carloop. He has a passion for cars, particularly EVs and wants to help reduce transport emissions in Australia. He currently drives a red Tesla Model 3.