BYD’s Yangwang U8 (see specs) makes a bold entry into the luxury SUV market, showcasing a dual powertrain that seamlessly blends electric and gasoline engines for unmatched versatility. The U8’s true defining feature is its intelligent Individual Wheel Drive (IWD) system, powered by four electric motors. It provides exceptional stability and control even in the toughest of situations, including tire blowouts. One standout feature is that the U8 can stay aloft for 30 minutes, propelled forward at 3km/h using its wheels as propulsion – an extraordinary achievement in the world of SUVs. Additionally, its ability to perform a 180-degree “tank turn” highlights BYD’s relentless pursuit of innovation in automotive engineering.
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With a price tag of RMB 1,089,000 (approximately $150,000), the Yangtze U8 also establishes itself as the most expensive mass-produced electric vehicle in China, cementing its status as a technological marvel. Since its launch in September 2023, the U8 has attracted market attention for its performance and unique features.
Exterior design
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Wolfgang Egger, who has experience at Lamborghini, Audi and Alfa Romeo, designed the Yangwang U8. The design combines futuristic and rugged elements to create a functional SUV. The U8 features a prominent front grille with Yangwang badge, sculpted body lines, flared wheel arches and high ground clearance, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. It is equipped with LED headlights and taillights for increased visibility.
The SUV’s dimensions are large, with a length of 5319 mm, width of 2050 mm, height of 1930 mm and wheelbase of 3050 mm. The design also places emphasis on practicality: the U8 comes with roof rails for increased luggage space, alloy wheels, side steps for easier ingress and egress and an integrated rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics.
interior
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The U8’s interior combines traditional Chinese design elements with modern comfort. Features such as calligraphy accents and porcelain-like details give it a distinctive character that sets it apart from other SUVs. The cabin is made of high-quality natural materials and comes equipped with advanced technologies such as a 4nm chip-powered interface and smart voice dialogue.
Standard equipment includes a Dynaudio sound system and advanced front seats. Luxury versions add seat memory, ventilation, heating, eight-way power adjustment, reclining rear seats and heated stone massage seats for added comfort. The U8 is designed as a five-seater, with a three-row version due to arrive at a later date.
Storage
The BYD Yangwang U8 boasts a trunk capacity of up to 1,000 litres, providing ample space for luggage, groceries and other items, and also features a 100 litre front trunk.
Driving experience
The U8’s 360-degree camera system is essential for taking tight turns and judging distances. The system gives you a clear view while maneuvering, ensuring both safety and precision. The U8’s suspension features an electro-hydraulic system that adjusts in real time to maintain balance and reduce body roll for a more confident drive. The cabin is incredibly quiet, reducing road noise and vibrations, although the stiff suspension means bumps are more noticeable.
The U8 has three driving modes: Comfort, Economy and Sport. Each mode changes the suspension and power delivery to suit different driving conditions. In Sport mode, the car lowers and firmers the suspension for a more dynamic and engaging driving experience. The U8 also comes with Level 2.5 autonomous driving capabilities, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). City driving is well managed, but the driver must remain alert and ready to intervene manually if required.
In terms of performance, the U8 is also impressive: it combines a 2.0-liter turbo internal combustion engine with four electric motors to deliver a total power output of 880 kW (1,180 hp) and a maximum torque of 1,280 Nm. This setup enables the 3,490 kg U8 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of 200 km/h. Such performance metrics highlight not only its power, but also its ability to handle a variety of driving conditions with agility and confidence.
Despite its large size, the U8 is highly maneuverable, with a large turning radius and an active steering system that makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easy. The electric range of around 120 kilometers is sufficient for city driving, but for longer distances the petrol engine should be used. The U8 achieves decent fuel economy in hybrid mode, making it practical for the daily commute and long distance trips. Overall, the YangWang U8 strikes a good balance between advanced features and solid handling and comfort.
Battery Range
With a Comprehensive Long-Distance Travel Capability (CLTC) range of up to 1,000km, the BYD Yangwang U8 offers extensive coverage for long-distance travel and off-road adventures.
Safety Features
The Yangwang U8 Premium Edition is equipped with safety features such as all-terrain tank turn, tire puncture stabilization, and emergency flotation. It also features BYD’s “e⁴” independent wheel drive (IWD) technology, which redistributes torque in the event of a tire puncture to increase stability and enable a 180-degree “tank turn.” The vehicle is equipped with Disus-P active suspension, which increases ground clearance by 15 cm and allows for water wading up to 1,000 mm deep. The U8 is also equipped with an Nvidia Drive Orin SoC, which provides high computing power and integrates 38 sensors, including three LiDAR units.
Dealer experience
After booking a test drive on Yangwang’s official website, a representative contacted me promptly. However, the representative was in Shenzhen, even though I wanted the test drive in Zhuhai, 90 minutes away. The representative in Shenzhen needed help connecting me to a dealer in Zhuhai. Luckily, a representative from Fang Cheng Bao in Zhuhai was able to guide me to the local Yangwang dealer. Once there, it was a smooth and comfortable experience.
Conclusion
BYD’s global strategy for the Yangwang brand is clear, with the U8 making a highly anticipated debut at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show. The brand has also expanded in China, opening more than 90 new stores across 40 cities, including repurposing former luxury showroom sites for Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin. The U8 aims to compete with luxury vehicles such as the Dongfeng M Hero 917 in China and the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon in Europe. Notable endorsements, including a test drive by California Governor Gavin Newsom, have also further boosted the brand’s profile.
The Yangwang U8 marks a major step forward for BYD in the luxury SUV sector. Its blend of advanced technology, luxury features and off-road capability sets a new benchmark in the premium SUV market. By redefining the traditional concept of a rugged SUV, the U8 marks a significant milestone for China’s premium new energy brand. As BYD continues to build the Yangwang brand and prepare for global expansion, the U8 is well positioned to make a major impact on the luxury SUV market.
Stay tuned for next week’s Car News China’s Sunday China Drive, where you’ll read more first-hand reviews of Chinese cars.
