BYD’s luxury sub-brand Yangwang has unveiled all the specifications of its first production model at the Shanghai Auto Show, the U8 electric SUV. This model, of which we already knew its exterior design and some technical characteristics, is presented as an alternative to the Mercedes Genz EQGwhich will hit the market next year.
The BYD Yangwang U8 measures 5.32 meters long, 2.05 meters wide and 1.93 meters high, while its battle stands at 3.05 meters. Therefore, it falls into the F segment, the category of representative vehicles, something that is evident if we take a look at its sumptuous five or six-seater cabin.
The dashboard, completely covered in leather, integrates two large screens: a 23.6-inch screen for the digital instrumentation and a 12.8-inch vertical touch screen for the infotainment system. Besides, the rear passengers also have two other displays of the same size.
BYD will propose two finishes focused respectively on ride comfort (Premium Edition) and field conduction (Offroad Master Edition). Thanks to the use of a four-motor Yisifang propulsion system, the off-road capabilities of the vehicle will be highlighted, being able to turn on itself or even ford rivers.
The BYD Yangwang U8 is a rival to the Mercedes-Benz EQG
Each of its engines will provide a power of 225 CV (165 kW) and 320 Nm. Combined, they come to 1,099 PS (808 kW) and 1,280 Nm, which translates into a 0-100 km/h of just 3 seconds. Of course, the advanced DiSus adjustable suspension system will not be missing either, which according to BYD currently stands as the most advanced in its class.
Autonomy stands at 1,000 km under the Chinese CLTC approval cycle, although the capacity of its battery pack has not yet been revealed. As for charging, the vehicle will recover 50% of its range (30-80%) in just 18 minutes, significantly improving on other BYD proposals. Its starting price in China will be 146,000 euros to change.
Like the U9 hypercar, the U8 is expected to hit European roads later. We should not rule out that, once the sub-brand is established, BYD decides to emancipate it as Citroën has already done with DS and SEAT with CUPRA, a move that will allow it to compete at the image level against contenders of the likes of Lexus, Toyota’s premium firm.
