Japan Welcomes $7,000 Mini EV ‘mibot’ as Deliveries Begin

Japan has begun deliveries of the innovative mini electric vehicle (EV) known as the mibot, priced at approximately $7,000. This compact vehicle, measuring just 2,490 mm (98 inches) in length, is generating significant interest in a market that has traditionally lagged in the adoption of electric vehicles. The first models were delivered on December 30, 2025, signaling a shift in Japan’s automotive landscape.

While major manufacturers like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan have been slow to embrace the EV transition, Japan has a long-standing affinity for “kei cars.” These tiny, street-legal vehicles account for over a third of new car sales in the country. Despite the popularity of kei cars, the Honda N-Box, which has topped sales charts for three consecutive years, operates on gasoline. Honda is reportedly planning an electric version of the N-Box to compete with incoming models, such as the Racco from BYD, but it may not arrive until 2027.

KG Motors, the manufacturer behind the mibot, indicates that the vehicle is currently in the “pre-production” phase, yet it is being delivered with the same quality standards expected of mass-produced units. Full-scale production is slated to commence in April 2026, with a limited number of vehicles being delivered in the interim.

Compact Design and Performance Capabilities

The mibot’s design is tailored for urban environments, offering a maximum driving range of up to 100 km (62 miles). Although this range may seem modest compared to the 300+ miles offered by many larger EVs, it is well-suited for daily commuting needs. The vehicle is classified as a one-seater but is designed to accommodate two 18-liter kerosene tanks, adding to its functionality.

KG Motors emphasizes that the mibot’s lightweight construction contributes to its efficiency and ease of navigation through Japan’s narrow streets. Kazunari Kusunoki, CEO and founder of KG Motors, expressed his motivation for developing this vehicle, stating, “Seeing so many big cars traveling Japan’s narrow streets – that’s where this all began for me.”

The launch of the mibot has sparked substantial consumer interest, with over 1,000 orders placed within the first month of availability last fall. By May, orders had surged to more than 2,250, surpassing half of KG Motors’ target of 3,300 deliveries by March 2027. The company plans to deliver the first 300 mibots in Japan by March 2026, with a subsequent 3,000 units earmarked for export to international markets.

Future Prospects and Technology Enhancements

The starting price for the mibot is ¥1 million ($7,000) before taxes, making it an accessible option for city dwellers looking for an economical transportation solution. Furthermore, KG Motors has incorporated over-the-air (OTA) updates into the vehicle’s design, allowing for continuous improvements and the addition of new features over time.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the mibot represents a significant step towards embracing electric mobility in Japan. With its compact size, affordability, and urban-centric design, it is poised to capture the attention of consumers eager for innovative solutions in transportation. As the company gears up for widespread production, the mibot may well redefine the concept of urban commuting in Japan.