Chinese automaker BYD has unveiled its first electric sedan under its luxury sub-brand Yangwang, called the Yangwang U7. With an impressive output of over 1,000 horsepower, the U7 adds to BYD's expanding lineup of electric vehicles (EVs). BYD has recently surpassed Tesla as the leading global EV manufacturer in terms of sales.
BYD's Growing Repertoire
BYD has been experiencing significant growth in the EV market. In 2023, the company sold approximately 1.6 million electric vehicles, marking a 73% increase from the previous year. When considering plug-in hybrids and other new energy vehicles, BYD's sales exceeded 3 million units in 2023. This growth is further demonstrated by the recent launch of the Song L electric SUV, which is priced starting from $27,000 and has a range of about 662km (CLTC). The Song L received over 8,000 orders within the first three days of its release.
The Yangwang Sub-Brand
Yangwang, BYD's luxury sub-brand, was introduced in 2022. All future models under this brand will be based on BYD's new e4 Platform. In September, Yangwang made its debut with the U8 off-road NEV SUV, which has a starting price of $150,000. The U8 is designed to conquer challenging terrains and comes equipped with features like tank turns, tire blowout stabilization, and a unique Float Mode that allows it to move through water during emergencies.
Design and Features
BYD showcased the Yangwang U8 on its official Weibo page, describing it as a million-level new energy flagship sedan. The design of the U8 combines elements from the U9 and a family-style design. It features similar headlights and LiDAR on the roof as the U9, as well as a large air intake system and carbon fiber side skirts. The e4 Platform, with its 1,000 horsepower output, is touted by Yangwang as a game-changer in terms of performance, thanks to its aerodynamic design.
Pricing and Availability
The Yangwang U7 is expected to have a price tag of around $140,000, although full release details are currently unavailable. It is anticipated that the U7 will be available in select overseas markets in addition to China.
BYD's introduction of the U7 under its Yangwang sub-brand further solidifies the company's position as a major player in the global EV market. With its impressive performance and luxurious features, the U7 is set to attract discerning customers looking for a high-performance electric sedan.
