YOKOHAMA, Japan -- Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD has struggled to gain traction in Japan, selling just 1,861 vehicles in the domestic stronghold of competitors like Toyota Motor, Honda Motor and Suzuki Motor in the first seven months of 2025.
Dealers say awareness is growing ahead of minicar launch, but barriers remain

BYD Auto Kohoku New Town in Yokohama: The dealership says its customers are satisfied with the price and cruising range of the Chinese brand's electric vehicles. (Photo by Yuichi Shiga)
YOKOHAMA, Japan -- Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD has struggled to gain traction in Japan, selling just 1,861 vehicles in the domestic stronghold of competitors like Toyota Motor, Honda Motor and Suzuki Motor in the first seven months of 2025.