BYD’s Yangwang U8 (see specs) has made a bold entrance into the luxury SUV market, showcasing a dual powertrain that seamlessly merges electric and petrol engines for unmatched versatility. What truly sets the U8 apart is its Intelligent Individual Wheel Drive (IWD) system, powered by four electric motors. It provides exceptional stability and control even in the most challenging conditions, like a tire blowout. Among its standout features, the U8 can float for 30 minutes and move forward at 3 km/h using its wheels for propulsion—an extraordinary achievement in the SUV world. Additionally, its ability to execute a 180-degree “tank turn” highlights BYD’s relentless pursuit of innovation in automotive engineering.
Priced at 1,089,000 RMB (approximately 150,000 USD), the Yangwang U8 has also established itself as the most expensive Chinese mass-produced electric vehicle, solidifying its position as a technological marvel. Since its launch in September 2023, the U8 has captured the market’s attention for its performance and unique capabilities.
Exterior Design
Wolfgang Egger, who has a background in Lamborghini, Audi, and Alfa Romeo, designed the Yangwang U8. The design combines futuristic and rugged elements, resulting in a functional SUV. The U8 features a prominent front grille with the Yangwang badge, sculpted body lines, flared wheel arches, and high ground clearance, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. LED headlights and taillights are included for enhanced visibility.
The SUV’s dimensions are substantial, measuring 5319 mm in length, 2050 mm in width, and 1930 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3050 mm. The design also prioritizes practicality. The U8 is equipped with roof rails for additional cargo space, alloy wheels, side steps for easier access, and an integrated rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics.
The Interior
The U8’s interior combines traditional Chinese design elements with modern comfort. Features like calligraphy accents and porcelain-inspired details give it a distinct character compared to other SUVs. The cabin uses high-quality natural materials and includes advanced technology, such as an interface powered by a 4nm chip and smart voice interaction.
Standard features include a Dynaudio sound system and advanced front seats. The luxury version adds seat memory, ventilation, heating, eight-way electric adjustment, reclining rear seats, and heated stone massage seats for enhanced comfort. The U8 is designed as a five-seater, and a three-row version is expected later.
Storage
The BYD Yangwang U8 features a trunk capacity of up to 1,000 liters, providing substantial space for luggage, groceries, and other items.
Driving Experience
U8’s 360-degree camera system is crucial for navigating tight turns and gauging distances. It provides a clear view during maneuvers, ensuring both safety and precision. The U8’s suspension, with its electric hydraulic system, adjusts in real time to maintain balance, reducing body roll and enhancing driving confidence. While the cabin is impressively quiet, dampening road noise and vibrations, the stiff suspension can make bumps more noticeable.
The U8 offers three driving modes: comfort, economy, and sports. Each mode alters the suspension and power delivery to suit different driving conditions. In sports mode, the car lowers and firms up the suspension, offering a more dynamic and engaging driving experience. The U8 also features Level 2.5 autonomous driving capabilities, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). It manages urban driving well but requires the driver to stay attentive for manual intervention when needed.
Performance-wise, the U8 is formidable. It combines a 2.0L turbo internal combustion engine with four electric motors, delivering a total of 880 kW (1,180 hp) and 1,280 Nm of peak torque. 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 not only highlight its power but also its capability to handle a variety of driving conditions with agility and confidence.
Despite its size, the U8 is quite maneuverable, with a good turning radius and an active steering system that makes parking and navigating tight spaces easier. The electric range of about 120 kilometers is sufficient for city driving, though longer trips require using the petrol engine. The U8 provides reasonable fuel efficiency in hybrid mode, making it practical for daily commutes and longer journeys. Overall, the YangWang U8 balances advanced features with solid handling and comfort.
Battery Range
The BYD Yangwang U8 has a Comprehensive Long Trip Capability (CLTC) range of up to 1,000 km, providing extensive coverage for long journeys and off-road adventures.
Safety Features
The Yangwang U8 Premium Edition includes safety features such as all-terrain tank turns, tire blowout stabilization, and emergency flotation. It also uses BYD’s “e⁴” individual wheel drive (IWD) technology, which redistributes torque for stability in case of a tire puncture and allows for a 180-degree “tank turn.” The vehicle is equipped with Disus-P active suspension, which can increase ground clearance by 15 cm and enable wading through water up to 1,000 mm deep. The U8 also features the Nvidia Drive Orin SoC, which provides high computational power and integrates 38 sensors, including three lidar units.
Dealership Experience
After scheduling a test drive through Yangwang’s official website, a representative promptly contacted us. However, the assigned representative was based in Shenzhen despite my request for a test drive in Zhuhai, which is 90 minutes away. The Shenzhen representative needed help connecting me with the Zhuhai dealership. Luckily, a Fang Cheng Bao representative in Zhuhai directed me to the local Yangwang dealership. Once there, the experience was smooth and pleasant.
Conclusion
BYD’s global strategy for the Yangwang brand is clear, with the U8 making a prominent debut at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show. The brand is also expanding its footprint in China, opened more than 90 new stores across 40 cities, including repurposing former premium showrooms like those of Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin. The U8 aims to compete with high-end models 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 further boosted its visibility.
The Yangwang U8 marks a significant step forward for BYD in the luxury SUV sector. Its blend of advanced technology, luxury features, and off-road capabilities sets a new benchmark in the premium SUV market. The U8 represents a significant milestone for Chinese high-end new energy brands by redefining traditional notions of rugged SUVs. As BYD continues to build its Yangwang brand and prepare for global expansion, the U8 is well-positioned to impact the luxury SUV market substantially.
Stay tuned for next week’s Sunday China Drive at Car News China, where you can read more first-person evaluations of Chinese cars.
Updated: 19/08/2024
“It also has a 100-liter frunk.”
Can we see an image of that? This is the first I have heard of it. I don’t think I have ever seen a PHEV with a frunk, especially one that large.
Hi Larry,
Thanks for pointing this out, my mistake. Article corrected.
Adrian
The BYD Yangwang U8 is definitely a game-changer.
Brilliant article highlights of the vehicle’s strengths and features, providing a positive and enthusiastic review.
Nicely written.
I’m just in love with this SUV.
Go for innovation dear China