Last Updated:
What sets the Mibot apart is its unique single-seater design, built specifically for short, everyday commutes, making it a practical solution for solo travelers
On a full charge, the Mibot can travel up to 100 kilometers. (News18 Hindi)
In a remarkable turn of events, Hiroshima, once synonymous with the devastation of the atomic bomb in 1945, is now emerging as a hub of technological innovation.
A small car company, KG Motors, based in a village near Hiroshima, has developed a unique electric car named “Mibot” that is revolutionising transportation in rural Japan.
Why Is Milbot Special
- The Mibot is compact enough to resemble a golf cart at first glance, but it’s a fully modern, eco-friendly electric vehicle.
- Priced at approximately Rs 7 lakh, it offers an affordable option in the EV segment.
- On a full charge, the Mibot can travel up to 100 kilometers, making it ideal for short commutes.
- It takes just 5 hours to reach a full charge, ensuring quick turnaround times.
- With a top speed of 60 km/h, it balances efficiency and safety for local travel.
- Its compact design makes it well-suited for the narrow lanes and smaller roads commonly found in villages.
Small Steps, Big Ideas
Bloomberg reported that Kazunari Kusunoki, the 43-year-old founder of Keiji Motors, grew up in a town near Hiroshima and witnessed firsthand the decline of public transport options—such as buses and taxis—in rural areas. Concerned about the commuting challenges faced by the elderly, he envisioned a vehicle that was compact, affordable, and practical for daily needs — and that idea led to the creation of the Mibot.
In 2022, he launched KG Motors. Since then, the company has received over 2,250 orders. Interestingly, most buyers already own a vehicle but were looking for a simpler, low-cost second option for short-distance travel.
Electric Vehicles In Japan
The same report highlights that while Japan is a global leader in technology, it lags behind in the adoption of electric vehicles. In 2023, only 3.5% of vehicles sold in Japan were electric, compared to a global average of 18%. Even major manufacturers like Toyota have been slow to embrace electric mobility, focusing instead on hybrids and hydrogen-powered vehicles. This approach has contributed to a slower shift toward EV adoption among the Japanese public.
However, innovators like Kazunari Kusunoki are aiming to change that mindset. They argue that large vehicles are ill-suited to Japan’s narrow streets and that lightweight, compact EVs like the Mibot offer a more practical and sustainable solution for everyday mobility.
Growing Popularity Of ‘Kei Cars’
Small cars, known as kei cars, have long been popular in Japan for their lightweight design, compact size, and affordability. In 2023, kei cars accounted for 55% of all electric vehicle sales in the country. One notable model, the Nissan Sakura, sold 23,000 units in 2024. Recognizing this demand, foreign automakers like BYD and Hyundai are also developing compact EVs tailored for the Japanese market.
What sets the Mibot apart, however, is its unique design — it’s a single-seater vehicle created specifically for short, everyday commutes, offering a highly practical solution for solo travelers.
Not Just A Car, But A Movement
KG Motors envisions a future where every person in rural Japan owns a personal vehicle, eliminating dependence on limited public transport. The Mibot is built around this idea—stripped down to the essentials, it features just a battery, a motor, and the necessary electronic components. Its simplicity is its biggest strength.
To promote the vehicle, the company has released test videos showcasing the Mibot navigating snowy roads, tight village lanes, and undergoing safety trials. Founder Kazunari Kusunoki, a former YouTuber, is leveraging his content creation skills to market the Mibot effectively.
- First Published:
